March 27, 2008
Networks
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Anyone who has ever played online games knows high speed internet (HSI) is almost a must-have purchase. The reasons for this are many, but the proof is in the playing. When it comes to accuracy, speed and ease of use, it just can’t be beat.
Whether it’s a T-1 line, cable or even DSL, high speed internet makes it easier for players to enjoy their games - especially the fast-paced ones that involve a lot of high end graphics.
Why is this?
It’s simple, high speed internet allows for a quicker communication between your computer and the game world. Whether it’s a single player shooter online or an online game with thousands of other players, high speed internet makes the experience more enjoyable.
The biggest reasons for gamers, include:
* Better transfer rates. Anyone who has played a Massively Multiplayer Online Game, or MMOG for short, knows these games tend to have a lot of patches of information and game files. Those who don’t have HSI will find these patches can take a lot of time to download. When high speed internet is brought into play, the downtime for loading program updates is generally greatly reduced. The times involved for regular connections versus high speed can be amazingly different. What takes a dial up service an hour to download, might take otherwise take only a few minutes.
* Better reaction time. Dealing with first person shooters, large MMOGs with lots of players or even an online tennis game can be enhanced greatly by the use of high speed internet. Since it takes your computer less time to talk to the game network, reaction times are generally reduced.
* Reliability. In games like MMOGs, reliability can be a big issue. With dial up services, incoming telephone calls can knock you off line and wreck the game. HSI users, however, don’t face this issue. For those who play MMOGs that rely on several if not dozens of other players to achieve a goal, reliability of a high speed connection is a very big deal. Some of these games involve hours and hours of work to finish a quest, obtain an item or gain a certain rank. If an internet connection is getting in the way of getting the job done, the player will feel like he or she has wasted their time. The reliability tends to be a lot higher than dial ups, so the loss of connection risk is much lower.
HSI connections aren’t the only answer for making the complicated games of today work like wonders, but the connection is a big part of it. When coupled with a machine that meets a game’s minimum requirements, the fun can be greatly enhanced.
With the fast-paced, graphics heavy games on the market today, playing without high speed internet is almost impossible. For those who want fun experiences not encumbered by a lack of speed will find it is the only way to go for playing games online.
More information on high speed internet
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March 27, 2008
Wireless Networks
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There is essentially two ways of setting up a home network, wired or wireless.
A wired network involves connecting up the computers using cables, and if often referred to as an Ethernet network. An Ethernet network transfers data at high speeds, faster than wireless networks as it is very rare for the connection to be interrupted. Although data transfer speeds of 1 Gbps can be achieved, the average speed is 100 Mbps, and this is why you will often see “10/100″ next to Ethernet ports on computers or in product data specs.
A wireless network transfers data via radio waves and is the preferred, and most often convenient, method of setting up a home network. It is especially useful for the use of laptops as it allows the user to roam throughout the house, and even the garden, without having wires trailing behind them. A wireless network is often referred to as a Wi-Fi network, which stands for Wireless Fidelity and is based on the 802.11 wireless standard.
It is also possible to create a home network which combines both wired and wireless technology.
There are distinct advantages and disadvantages as to whether you opt for a wired or wireless network in your home. A wireless network offers you more freedom to move around your house with your laptop and of course without the need to trail wires from each fixed computer. It is also easy to add more computers to the network without having the need to buy more networking equipment. However, where a wired network offers less freedom, it is cheaper to install and potentially faster due to the connection being rarely interrupted. A wireless network also has restricted boundaries, whereas a wired network is only restricted by the length of cables you have.
In order to set up a home network you will need to purchase some specific hardware. Knowing what hardware to buy is often quite daunting due to the amount on the market, and the fact that you do not know exactly what something is and what it does! Essentially the main piece of equipment that you will need is known as an ACCESS POINT. This is the small box with all the flashing lights that allows the connection between the computers in the network to take place. There are several types of Access Point, and although they essentially do the same job, the type you need (and you may need more than one) depends on your computer, internet connection and they type of network you wish to set up.
To make sure that you choose the right Access Point, we have constructed a guide to the various pieces of hardware to ensure you purchase the parts you need to set up your own home network.
Router: The most important piece of hardware on a home network setup. The router is the part which routes the data to the computers on the network. It basically connects all the computers together so that they can share the internet connection and browse it at the same time. The router also acts as a line of defence between the internet and your computer. Most have built-in software to protect your identity and your computer from viruses.
Hub: The device used to connect the computers to the network via Ethernet cabling or via Wi-Fi. Wired hubs come with a number of ports which can transmit data at speeds ranging from 10 Mbps to multi-gigabyte speeds per second. The hub transmits the data it receives, often from the households’ main computer, to the other computers that are connected to it. The amount of computers that can be connected to a hub depend on it size. The average hub can connect 4 computers. A larger hub could connect nearer 50. A wireless hub can connect hundreds.
Switch: This is a type of hub that controls the way that multiple devices use the same network so that each can operate at optimal performance. A switch acts as a networks traffic police: rather than transmitting all the packets of data it receives to all ports as a hub does, a switch transmits packets to only the receiving port. Switches are fast replacing hubs as a preferred choice of data management as prices are more in line with hub prices.
NIC (Network Interface Card): A type of PC adapter card that either works without wires (Wi-Fi) or attaches to a network cable to provide two-way communication between the computer and network devices such as a hub or switch. A Network interface card can be installed internally into a desktop PC or slotted into a Type 2 PCMCIA slot on a laptop or PDA.
Combined switch/router: A popular choice of Access Point as it combines both the functionality of a router and switch in one unit.
Networks for Home discusses television options for residential customers. Find out more about getting the best option for your home at Networks for Home.
March 27, 2008
Wireless Networks
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Everywhere you look, companies are producing Bluetooth Headsets faster than the rising cost of gasoline. Nokia, Sony, even Verizon Wireless is unveiling the newest trend in Blue Tooth technology, the headset. Demand is high, and understandably so. Studies have shown that many accidents occur while people are dually driving and speaking on cell phones. A Blue Tooth headset can solve the problem by freeing both hands for the wheel and allowing people to focus their attention on the task at hand-driving.
Now, for those who are unfamiliar with Blue Tooth and headsets that utilize this mobile technology, don’t let the name fool you. Maybe you have conjured up images of geeky brains in MIT walking down the street with electric pulsating wires stemming from football helmets as they signal to each other in modified walkie talkies- nothing could be further from the truth. Today’s modern headsets are little more than a comfortable, small and lightweight piece that rests over the ear. This technology is revolutionizing the way people communicate wirelessly and if modern manufacturers and patents are a clue to the future, will soon replace the traditional hand held cell phone.
Not exactly a headset, but you can see a great pair of Blue Tooth wireless sunglasses worn by “Dog” on the A&E hit series, “Dog the Bounty Hunter”. I wonder what other nifty gadgets the Dog has on the show! But if you look closely, you can catch the Dog speaking into his glasses (no and not in common “Bond” spy fashion) and see the rest of the team hear his words loud and clear.
With the announcement that Verizon is releasing the Logitech Headset and making it available to all of their wireless customers, we are sure to see a sudden rise in the amount of Bluetooth headset wearers.
As testament to the sudden interest in headsets, the company Late On has just received an order for their mobile headsets to be released. These headsets are so versatile; they can be clipped on to a collar and are perfect for conducting phone conversations, as well as for listening to MP3 files.
One of the world’s leading manufacturers of mobile phones is also embracing the design of Blue Tooth headsets, Nokia. With three new Nokia headsets soon to be released we can see that the major companies are investing their own dollars in the production of these wireless devices that give users greater freedom and mobility. The world is pulling the wires on many of their devices and now we can see that Blue Tooth headsets are winning the race in mobile technology, with hands waving freely at the finish line.
Discover Bluetooth - Find out more information about how this wireless is going to change everything. Have you seen the latest Bluetooth Earpieces yet? http://www.discoverbluetooth.com
March 27, 2008
Wireless Networks
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Wireless networking involves a computer network that transmits data. It is commonly called WiFi. Wireless networking is used to transmit internet service to a large number of customers from a central internet service provider. This is the result of technology advancing to meet the demands of the consumer when it comes to computers and communications. Wireless networking has dramatically changed the way we access the internet, and the impact it has on our lines.
Everything plugged into the network can work together, such as your printer working with your computer to print something you accessed on the internet. Wireless networking relies on a router to receive the transmitted materials and read them. The same router brings information in and sends it back out. A wireless router can handle large volumes of data in just a few seconds, allowing everything to operate very quickly for you.
Wireless networking has lead to millions of individuals relying on their computer for work and for organizing their life. Many of us turn to the internet for everything. We read the news, shop, check the weather, get directions, compare prices, read reviews, even watch movies and listen to music. Wireless networking has allowed the internet to grow and to give us this access to this type of information anytime we want it.
The most common type of wireless networking is the Local Area Network, known as LAN. This involves using radio waves to transmit the data between computers on the same network. Global System for Mobile Communication, or GSM, has three systems - the base station, operational station, and support system. They one you will use is going to depend on your wireless networking needs as well as what is available from service providers in your area. It is likely you with have a LAN server. Both types are effective.
Setting up a wireless network is very simple as well as inexpensive. They are well received because they allow you more mobility with your computer or laptop as there are no wires or cables to be concerned with. With so many of us being on the go in our society, this is the perfect solution for getting everything accomplished. Especially when you consider how many of us use a computer for our personal activities as well as for work on a daily basis.
A wireless network is the perfect solution for sharing resources including internet connections, data storage, printers, and software. It is also enabling more individuals in the work force to operate out of their homes instead of having to commute to an office.
There are some disadvantages of wireless networking that you should be aware of as well. The connection is often slower. You won’t notice it for most of you internet activities, but you will be able to tell a difference when it comes to downloading videos. Due to the limited amount of bandwidth, you may not be able to get online when you need to.
Wireless networks are also easier for hackers to access because they can get into the signal. Security has been a huge issue with wireless networking, and one that the service providers are striving to improve upon.
Compatibility issues are another area of frustration for consumers. Third party certification has been working well to eliminate some of these compatibility issues, but many things still have to be improved upon. You may find the troubleshooting process very difficult with wireless networking because there are too many variables to contend with.
Each individual will have to decide if what wireless networking has to offer them out weighs the disadvantages. Many people find wireless networking to be a viable solution for them, and they make it work. Expect to see many changes to the area of wireless networking as providers continue to improve their wireless networking services.
Compare Broadband Providers at UK Broadband Provider and get Broadband ISP Reviews.
March 27, 2008
Wireless Networks
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One of the fastest growing and most exciting technologies these days is devices that use some sort of wireless network. Wireless networking has allowed almost anyone to use many different devices in a way that not too long ago was unheard of. The most exciting thing about wireless networking is that the development of new technologies is only just beginning.
A new wireless protocol, 802.11N, should be released later this year, which will allow wireless networks to connect over longer distances, and at faster speeds. With this new advancement companies will be able to allow all of their users to connect to the network wirelessly.
This new protocol, coupled with recent advancements in secure connections to wireless networks, will allow businesses to perform tasks wirelessly that they have never been able to do before. Companies utilizing this new protocol will also be able to save quite a bit of money trying to hard wire their offices, by using less wireless routers to do the same task that wired routers did in the past.
Wireless networks have become a very important part of many businesses, because you can construct a wireless network that is separate from your main network that only allows visitors access to the internet and not to any of your precious information. This will also allow you to setup places for visitors to connect to the internet that do not require a desk to be setup or a dedicated computer setup for their access. Instead you can utilize a sitting area and a laptop to achieve the same functionality, without the security risks of someone connecting directly into your network.
Many of the reasons why wireless networks were a faux pas in the past have been addressed and now wireless networks are looked at more and more as a viable alternative to a hard wired network. The best thing about wireless networks is that many new technologies are being released every year that extend the functionality and availability of this fascinating new technology.
The new technologies that are available to construct, and connect to wireless networks is unbelievable. You can connect to a wireless network with a laptop through Wi-Fi, GSM, and even through satellite data cards. Many businesses are creating free hotspots that allow their patrons access to the internet to conduct business, or just send a friend an email.
Many car manufacturers are now offering satellite broadband internet access from within a certain distance of the car, so that people can get an internet connection while they are traveling. Many new types of cell phones and PDAs will allow you to check your email, get your contacts, your calendar, and even access certain web pages right from the phone.
Right now many web pages are not easily viewed, or fully functional on a cell phone or PDA, but many programmers and web designers are working on making their web sites more accessible from all forms of wireless devices.
Many other forms of wireless devices are now being developed that will allow information to be obtained in real-time over great distances. RFID has revolutionized process chain management, because now businesses can track their product from manufacturing to delivery, and everywhere in between. New technologies have been developed recently that allow RFID wireless networks to be formed that can calculate distances between the different devices contained within the network. This will allow a sort of “smart” network to be formed that will allow the devices to “know” when one is on the move, or if one has been lost.
Another very important development in recent years is the use of GPS tracking and navigation. Now we have the ability to know exactly where our products are, and where they are going so we can ensure shipment delivery in a timely manner. When all of these wireless networks are tied together an efficient and productive business can be sure to follow. Wireless networks are a must in this new on-demand world that we live in. If you do not keep up with the times, then you will be quickly left behind.
For more information: UK Broadband Supplier, Wireless Broadband Modems, UK Broadband Deals
March 26, 2008
Networks
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Most businesses have laws and regulations for how long specific data must be stored, but still many companies don’t have a tape drive, tape libraries, secondary storage or any plan for archiving data. Even if your industry doesn’t have specific requirements, keeping a well documented business information library is a safe bet. Recently, the residential building company Urban Renaissance Agency realized that it had lost archived building plan data for 555 (31%) of its condos due to “insufficient storage measures.”
The mistake not only made the news, but will cost the company millions to recover. Data storage tends to be one of those problems that many individuals and businesses don’t act on until a loss happens. Most people agree that backing up data is important, but feel the process will be too difficult and the issue stays below the radar until a crisis occurs. On the contrary, it’s surprisingly simple to back up, store, and recover data using a tape backup drive and magnetic tape libraries to build a foolproof information archive system.
A tape drive is a very reliable method of recording and archiving data. Using a magnetic tape cartridge, the tape drive scans all of your computer’s files and copies them onto the tape. Businesses might choose to backup files daily, weekly, or monthly. The process can be set up to be manually run or to automatically update at a certain time of the day.
The most important functionality of a tape library is that you have a record of ’snapshots’ as data appeared at regular intervals throughout history. This means if a customer has a dispute over a contract or a policy from last year, you can pull a tape from your tape library and find the piece of data exactly as it looked one year ago.
Another benefit to storing your data on tape is that cartridges can be stored off site and/or in fire and flood proof containers. More often than not, secondary storage is usually found in the same building as the original data, and often in the same location as the server. With a tape backup drive, once the tape is made the tape cartridge can then be stored anywhere. Because the tapes are there for reference and not part of daily use, they can easily be locked away and stored in disaster and theft resistant safes.
Tape drives come with a variety of options including file cataloging features; a comparison feature that will check the data on the drive against a current document, and are available in a variety of speeds. The tapes you’ll use to build your tape libraries will vary as well. It’s recommended to discuss your options with a data storage specialist who can help you build a system around your budget and your unique business needs.
Author is a writer for Sunstar Company which specializes in tape
libraries for disk storage and back up. For additional information you can visit
http://www.SunstarCo.com.
March 26, 2008
Wireless Networks
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Running a business from home has its advantages, including no commute, a more accommodating work schedule, fresh coffee and home-cooked meals at any time you want.
But running a business from home using a home wireless local area network (WLAN) with your computer may lead to thievery of confidential information and hacker or virus penetration unless proper actions are taken. As WLANs send information back and forth over radio waves, someone with the right type of receiver in your immediate area could be picking up the transmission, thus acquiring access to your computer.
Here is a list of things that you should consider as a result of implementing a home wireless network setup used your business:
Viruses could be loaded onto your laptop which could be transferred to the company’s network when you go back to work.
Up to 75 per cent of home wireless network WLAN users do not have standard security features installed, and 20 per cent are left completely open as default configurations and are not secured, but are made for the users to have their network up and running ASAP.
It is recommended that home wireless network router/access point system setups be always done though a wired client.
Always change the default administrative password on your home wireless network router/access points to a secured password.
Enable at least 128-bit WEP encryption on both card and access point. Change your WEP keys periodically. If equipment does not support at least 128-bit WEP encryption, consider replacing it. Although there are security issues with WEP, it represents minimum level of security, and it should be enabled.
Change the default SSID on your router/access point to a hard to guess name. Setup your computer device to connect to this SSID by default.
Setup router/access points so as to not broadcast the SSID. The same SSID needs to be setup on the client side manually. This feature may not be available on all equipment.
Setup your home wireless network router to block anonymous internet requests or pings.
On each computer having a wireless network card, network connection properties should be configured to allow connection to Access Point Networks Only. Computer to computer (peer to peer) connections should not be allowed.
Enable MAC filtering. Deny connection to wireless network for unspecified MAC addresses. MAC or physical addresses are accessible through your computer device wireless network connection setup and they are physically written on network cards. When adding new wireless cards / computer to the network, their MAC addresses should be registered with the router /access point.
Your home wireless network router should have firewall features enabled and demilitarized zone (DMZ) feature disabled. Periodically test your hardware and personal firewalls using Shields Up test available at Gibson Research Corp. web site. All computers should have a properly configured personal firewall in addition to a hardware firewall.
Update router/access point firmware when new versions become available.
Locate router/access points away from strangers so they cannot reset the router/access point to default settings. Also, locate router/access points in the middle of the building rather than near windows to limit signal coverage outside the building.
You should know that nothing is 100%. While none of the actions suggested above will provide full 100% protection, countermeasures do exist that will help. The good collection of suggested preventative actions contained herein can help you deter an intruder trying to access your home wireless network. This deterrant then makes other insecure networks easier targets for the intruder to persue.
Greg Lietz is an internet business man and computer enthusiast. His websites provide information on wireless internet networking and personal computer hardware that may be of interest to you.