Wireless

Finding the Right Wireless Router

September 22, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

: Image by Laughing Squid via Flickr

In the fast-paced world of technology, we have quickly outgrown the dial-up days of the internet. However, there are still many people that use dial-up. You may even be one of them. Well, there are many benefits that come from upgrading to a broadband connection. One of them is the fact that you can easily set up a wireless router in your home and not have to mess with being “hooked up” to your internet source at all times.

Not only will the wireless router provide you with internet access from anywhere in your house, but you will also be able to link your computer to your smart phones and easily transfer information that way as well. That may not seem extremely beneficial, but if you need to print a document and don’t want to get up and get on the computer, your wireless router will allow you to do that from your phone when you have a wireless enabled printer. Those are just a couple of the benefits of having a wireless router. However, before you can begin reaping the benefits, you need to find the right wireless router for you!

Finding the right wireless router can be time-consuming, but it’s important that you consider a variety of things to ensure you will be happy with the router you choose. Below are a few things to consider when shopping for routers.

-Usage: Will you be using your home internet service just to browse the web and do simple tasks, or do you need it for online gaming and more complex uses? This will also help you determine whether you need a single or dual band router.

-Range: If you will need a router to cover more than 180 feet while indoors, then you may need more than one router.

-Features: Research the different routers and the features they offer. Then, determine which ones are the most important to you. For example, do you need a router that has USB ports? If so, then mark it down as a “must-have.”

Filed Under: Internet, Satellite, Technology, Wireless Technology Tagged With: Technology, Universal Serial Bus, Wireless, Wireless router

The Benefits of Going Wireless at the Office

September 5, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

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While wireless internet connections are becoming more and more common on the home front, many business owners are still dragging their feet to go wireless at the office. A lot of this has to do with the fact that old habits are hard to break. However, there are many benefits that can come from having an office operating with a wireless internet connection. Below are just a few.

No More Bulky Cords: For many people, the fact that wireless internet eliminates the need for a bunch of unsightly cords is a huge benefit. While it may seem like a small benefit, it really is one of the best benefits of going wireless.

It’s Cheaper: Obviously, when the old networking systems were installed on business computers it cost more. This is because each and every computer required its own set of special cords that had to be specially wired before all the computers could communicate with each other. This cost business owners more because it took longer to install and the business owner also had to pay for all those special cords. With a wireless internet connection the time it takes to install it is much less and there are no extra expenses associated with cords and wires.

Increased Production and Flexibility: The greatest benefit of having a wireless internet connection at the office is the increased production and flexibility it provides employees. Employees will have more flexibility in regards to how they can complete their work, which leads to an increase in work production. For example, an employee can easily take her computer with her into a business conference and send a message to her secretary if she needs a report immediately. This saves both her and those in the meeting time because they don’t have to wait for her to leave the room and walk down the hall to get it from the secretary. Instead, it can be emailed to her within a minute. This convenience isn’t possible without a wireless internet connection.

Filed Under: Internet, Technology, Wi-Fi Networks, Wireless Technology Tagged With: Access Providers, Wi-Fi, Wireless

Reasons to Set Up a Wireless Home Network

August 22, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

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Wireless networking is a relatively new concept for many homes and businesses, but it is certainly one worth exploring. With the addition of affordable wireless routers, systems that come equipped with wireless adapters, and more and more wireless devices such as printers and cellular phones coming out each day, the advantages of setting up a wireless network in your home are stacking up. However, there are still some drawbacks. Here are the ups and downs of this networking alternative.

On the “good” side of the scale . . .

The mobility of the network allows anyone to access it from anywhere inside your home, or even immediate outside of it.

You don’t have to be right next to a printer or other device to tap into it as a resource.

You can reduce the number of cords you need to purchase, set up, and have around.

Setup is relatively simple when compared to a wired home network. You can simply plug into the router or other wireless station and use the wireless installation wizard that comes with your computer in order to create a fundamentally sound network.

On the “bad” side of the scale . . .

The speed of your network will be lower when compared to a fully wired network. While wireless is getting faster, it’s not “there” yet.

Wireless networks are far less reliable than wired networks, and you can get spots, downtime, and other errors more easily in a wireless network.

Wireless networking won’t work very well for specific tasks such as gaming, where the lag that occurs can create significant problems.

The cost of a wireless network, while decreasing, is high when compared to a fully wired network. In addition to the cost of the router and adapters for computers, wireless versions of printers or other utilities are more costly.

Neither wired nor wireless home networks are a bad idea, and each provides certain opportunities and drawbacks. The best approach is to evaluate your home, your priorities for mobility, cost, and ease of setup, and make the best decision to suit your particular situation.

Filed Under: Computers, Internet, Technology, Wireless Technology Tagged With: Computer network, Home network, Wireless

Overcoming Wireless Connectivity Issues

August 19, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

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The rapid growth in Internet technology has created its own set of potential problems for end users. Going wireless is the preferred choice for many in this highly mobile world. Satellite technology makes the rapid delivery of content a relatively simple task. This ease of delivery does come at a price, more so for the end user than for the provider. No one escapes unscathed from the possible pitfalls of this modern technological convenience.

Common Wireless Connectivity Problems

The concept of Internet on the go caught on quickly with the advent of PDAs and smartphones. Some issues can be handled with basic troubleshooting techniques. Others may require the intervention of skilled computer engineers. Common issues encountered by both end users and providers include:

•Security breaches: Users are more vulnerable to attacks when using wireless signals, which can result in loss of personal information.
•Firewall: This necessary security feature can prevent wireless signals reaching its destination.
•Operating systems: Older operating systems (OS) are simply not equipped to handle this activity.
•Weather conditions: Bad weather conditions can interrupt wireless signals, resulting in no connectivity or connectivity that frequently fails.
•Slow speeds: Users can get dropped signal or low speed for a number of reasons including damaged ports and poor configuration.

Upgrading the software responsible for wireless connectivity or the operating system can provide the needed fix. Another solution may call for switching providers. Some companies simply perform better than others in this arena. Depending on the Internet Service Providers (ISP) equipment they may be better able to send wireless signals over mountains than others. Some research before signing up can sometimes help in avoiding problems commonly experienced by wireless users.

So called hot zones have become quite popular with end users. These zones allow wireless connectivity free for anyone with a device that can pick up the signal. Some users may unwittingly expose themselves to viruses and attacks by hackers in these areas. It is recommended that Wi-Fi feature on mobile wireless devices be turned off when not needed.

Filed Under: Internet, Wireless Technology Tagged With: Data Communications, Wi-Fi, Wireless

About B, G, and N Wireless

August 17, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

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In the world of wireless internet communication, there are four letters that have some significance: B, G, and N. However, despite the fact that most people realize that these make for a difference of some kind, only the more educated internet users have any idea what that difference is. Prepare to join the “more educated” group.

Unlettered wireless, the original wireless format, provided the baseline for the wireless field. It could transfer a data bit rate of up to 2 bits per second, and had an indoor range of up to 66 feet. It functioned on a 2.4Ghz frequency – the same as just about everything else that’s wireless. Luckily, the wireless technologies have moved forward.

Wireless B came next, with up to 11 megabits per second, or just over five times the maximum transfer rate of original wireless. The maximum indoor range also exploded, reaching up to 125 feet with a relatively clear signal. Wireless B came about in 1999, two years after the invention of the original wireless cards, and still functioned on the 2.4Ghz frequency. It didn’t stop there, however.

Wireless G was dropped off by the stork in 2003, and sported connection rates of up to 54 megabits per second. The range didn’t change much, and the frequency didn’t change. Still, the speeds were becoming pretty decent. 54 megabits per second equates to a maximum download speed of about seven megabytes per second.

Wireless N started to change things in 2009, and it is currently the reigning champion of the wireless world. Its maximum transfer rate reaches 150 megabits per second, or almost twenty megabytes per second, when it is functioning on a 5Ghz frequency. This versatile network can function on either 5Ghz or 2.4Ghz frequencies, allowing for maximum compatibility with older devices. With either 5Ghz or 2.4Ghz, the range is double that of B/G wireless. The 5Ghz frequency, however, is more resistant to wireless interference.

Filed Under: Internet, Technology, Wi-Fi Networks, Wireless Technology Tagged With: Frequency, Wi-Fi, Wireless

Wireless Devices for Your Home Office

August 12, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

More and more home offices are turning to wireless solutions. After all, this once expensive category of devices is now becoming very affordable, and the additional mobility, the lack of clutter, and the chance to network in other devices more easily, all lead to great appeal. So, what wireless devices should you consider getting?

Wireless Mouse and Keyboard

The wireless effort can start right at your computer. A wireless keyboard and mouse are two of the most simple and affordable components, but they are highly advantageous. You will be able to remove the clutter around your desk, increase your ergonomics and general comfort, and easily move your work station. This includes moving your work station to other locations such as wireless hot spots. A portable mouse can network with whatever computer you choose to use for the day.

Headphones and Speakers

There are many business applications that require sound in order to provide their maximum benefit. These include VOIP programs and any program with audio instructions or elements, but the importance of music at work shouldn’t be discounted either. Wireless components here will allow for a full surround sound experience and the chance to walk away from your desk without disrupting your task.

Printer and Office Devices

A wireless printer is one of the best items to get in your home office, partially because it will allow anyone else who needs a printer to get their task finished without too much interference with your work flow.

Phones and Headsets

If phone calls are any major portion of your work day, then getting a wireless headset will make work a little more sanity friendly. Getting up to stretch your legs in the middle of a phone call may also give you a hidden opportunity for increase fitness!

Webcams and Microphones

Do you do video conferencing? Use a VOIP program? If so, you’ll get tons out of wireless webcams and mics, due to the simplicity of installation and how easy it makes your desk organization.

Remember, that any other devices that access the internet, including mobile phones, tablets, and other computers, can also become a part of your home office wireless network!

Filed Under: Computers, Gadgets, Technology, Wireless Technology Tagged With: Data Communications, mouse, Telecommunications, Wireless

Why Smartphones Are Smart

August 4, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

Perhaps you have been living inside a bubble and haven’t heard about the absolute craze that smartphones have become. There isn’t a company making phones today that doesn’t make a smartphone. With businesses growing everyday and people needing to be in contact more and more, having a smartphone just makes the most sense in this day and age. But not everyone feels that way. There are still many who haven’t found reason enough to purchase this great advancement in technology. But you are about to change your mind.

The problem with your life is that there are too many things pulling in too many directions. You have emails to catch up on at home. You have all of your contacts still in a handwritten notebook you keep in your room. You are thinking about a refinance auto loan. You are constantly struggling to wear many hats. So what if there were a phone that could feed you your email and give you Internet as well as hold all of your contacts and the notes you have on them in one easy to find place. This is where the smartphone can’t be beat.

You could use your laptop for all of the same functions but there are quite a few challenges. The first obstacle is the size of the laptop. It is not always convenient to lug around a big laptop. This could be a problem when all you want to do is check and respond to an email. That brings up the next issue. With a smartphone you always have that company’s wireless coverage. With a computer you do not have that luxury. Unless you pay for a service or borrow someone else’s connection (not the recommended option) you will find that getting the Internet on your phone is just much easier. There’s a reason why smartphones are on everyone’s wish list, it’s because people want to make life easier; not more complicated.

Filed Under: Cell Phone Tagged With: Smartphone, Telecommunications, Wireless

5 Reasons to Secure Your Wireless Network

July 28, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

The vast majority of wireless networks are now secured – a significant change from five years ago. However, some people still haven’t taken the ten minutes required to secure their network. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience to not have this security, there are many reasons why this security is important. Here are five of the most significant.

One: Your Bandwidth Use is Increased

It should be obvious that your total bandwidth use will go up with more users. As there is only a certain amount of total bandwidth that you’re alloted, it’s important to keep your bandwidth under control to maximize your speeds.

Two: Your Router Will Be Mad at You

There are multiple points at which your internet speed are limited. Beyond the bandwidth issues mentioned above, you should keep in mind that even the best wireless routers have limitations. If more people are accessing the router, it’s more likely to overload, slow down, require hard resets, and be generally problematic.

Three: Your Files May Be Vulnerable

A savvy hacker will be able to access other devices and computers on the network if you haven’t engaged in appropriate security. This means, among other things, that private documents, pictures, and files will be vulnerable.

Four: You Can Get Locked Out

If you don’t set a password for your network, anyone else can. It isn’t required that they plug into your router in order to access it as an administrator. If you haven’t gone through a setup, set an administrator username and password, and so forth, then anyone who taps into your network can go into your control panel and lock you out of your own web.

Five: You May Be Supporting Crime

If other people are accessing your wireless network, you have no control over what they’re doing. Every foul thing that can happen on the internet, ranging from harmless music pirating to child pornography to illegal gambling rings can be happening using your internet. In addition to being terrible in and of itself, there are legal liability issues that you will have to face if these activities are traced to your IP address.

Filed Under: Wi-Fi Networks, Wireless Technology Tagged With: Computer network, Wireless, Wireless network

Strengthening Your Home’s Wireless Internet

July 27, 2010 By admin Leave a Comment

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Even with super-fast internet connection, the best possible hardware, and no major bugs, it’s possible that you’re not getting the most out of your home’s wireless internet. Here are a few quick tips on getting better signal strength and faster connection with your home’s wireless router.

1. Position, position, position.

Your wireless router should be placed in the most central location possible. The router will “bubble out” from where it is positioned, so if it’s placed close to the edge of the home, much of the signal strength will be wasted. If you absolutely can’t move it, there are different antenna types that can be used so your wireless stream isn’t being wasted.

2. Make your hardware as shiny as possible.

If you don’t already have a top-of-the-line router, you can always look into something that has a little more strength. When you’re buying your modem and router, you will get more bang for your buck by investing in multiple items from the same vendor, since doing so has shown a strong tendency to increase the hardware efficiency. Beyond your router, your computer’s network adapter might get a fair deal stronger with replacement. If you can’t, or just don’t want to, replace your hardware, make sure that your firmware and device drivers are all up to date. You can also invest in extras like wireless repeaters in order to bolster signal strength in all portions of your house.

3. Get rid of interference.

There are many things that can get in the way of your router’s transmission. Metal objects, or metal materials as a part of your decor, can disrupt your wireless broadcast. Other wireless devices, such as cordless phones, can also get in the way. Getting rid of these items, moving them to different areas, or moving your router away from them, can all help improve your signal strength.

4. Secure your network.

If your internet connection isn’t password protected, it’s entirely likely that other people are leeching off of it, and that’s one surefire way to hurt your signal strength. Simply adding a password to your wireless router will get rid of these unwelcome guests.

Filed Under: Internet, Satellite Tagged With: Modem, Wi-Fi, Wireless