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Wireless Stereo

Wireless Stereo and computer hook up
There are devices on the market which permit you to hook up your computers media to wireless speakers and a wireless stereo system. They come with a remote control which will permit you to browse through your media library and music will stream to the wireless stereo speakers.

Troubleshooting wireless stereo equipment
If you notice performance issues with your wireless home stereo system, there's a few things you can check. First, make sure that the batteries in the wireless stereos and devices are charged and working well. Make sure that the wireless stereo is not covered up as to prevent adequate transmission. Finally, make sure that devices which may cause interference are separated from the wireless stereo system.

How Wireless Stereos work
The wireless stereo transmits a signal to the wireless speaker by radio waves instead of traditional wires. The same holds real for radio wave remote controls, which increases flexibility of placement and range of use. With a wireless home stereo system, you will be able to place the stereo and speakers virtually anywhere in the home and not need to worry about wires, plugs, cables or extenders.

Wireless Stereo
Wireless stereo speakers are speakers which play from a computer or wireless stereo system without being hooked up by wires. You can also spend devices which let you browse your computer music library and play the music on a wireless home stereo system.

Wireless Stereo Benefits
Using a wireless stereo method will decrease cable clutter, permit greater flexibility with where to place your speakers and stereo and offers a high level of portability. You can move the speakers to where you are and leave the base wireless stereo where it is. Wireless home stereo systems are a really good way to listen to music in your home.

Wireless Headset

The Best Wireless Headset
The best wireless headset for you will depend on your needs and how frequently you will use it. For a cell phone wireless headset, you will want to look for a blue tooth headset, as thats the industry standard. Other features to consider include:

Comfortable fit
Features you require
Within your price range
Compatible with your current cell phone.
If you need a wireless headset with a landline telephone, you must consider some alternate options:

What brand name are you most comfortable with? Wireless headsets for your regular phone come from various manufacturers including Plantronics, GN Netcom and Polycom.
How much desk space you want it to take up?
How much range it needs to have (how huge is your office)
You may not have considered it, but you can also get a headset for your computer. If you use Skype or the other nifty computer phone call programs, you may have a headset plugged into your desktop or laptop already, but wireless may make your life much more flexible.

Wireless Headset: Bluetooth
Bluetooth is another wireless standard, mostly used for short range connectivity. You will frequently get Bluetooth technology in printers, cell phones and wireless headsets. Its range is significantly shorter then other wireless technology, about 30 feet. It is cheaper then other Wi-Fi standards and works well for lots of home offices. This is why Bluetooth has been included in lots of wireless headsets - but beware of that range, you do not want to wander too far from your source and lose you call.

Reasons to Use a Wireless Headset
A wireless headset offers you significantly more freedom while you discussed on your cell phone or regular phone. By plugging in the wireless adaptor, you can walk all over your home or office since you isn’t tied to location with a wire. The benefits in an office environment are clear, but these are also really good for stay at home parents who may be chasing an active toddler all over the house! The car is another obvious location for the use of a wireless headset.

Good wireless headsets come equipped with volume control and answer buttons and they should be small and fit comfortably over your ear. They should be snug enough so you do not need to worry about the headset slipping off your ear or falling to the ground.

Problems with Wireless Headset
If your wireless headset is having performance issues, there's a few things you can check.

Make sure your telephone or ell phone is within range and not overly obstructed.
Check to make sure your cell phone battery is charged and you are receiving a good signal.
Typically, with wireless headsets you will have multiple channels from which to select the best signal, so make sure which you have switched around to see which is best and which you are not still on the default channel.
Make sure you attempt your phone without the headset on at all to ensure that the line or signal is strong.
Finally, check to make sure the batteries in the wireless headset are charged.

Wireless Headset
A wireless headset is a small device you slip over your ear that allows you to discussed by your cell phone, but hands free. Using the blue tooth technology standard, wireless headsets offer an excellent range and really good hands free features.

These wireless headsets have been especially popular with commuters and people who must use their cell phones in their car. The increased safety afforded when you are using both hands to drive makes the investment in one of the headsets an easy decision. Additionally, you are not hampered through an annoying cord which can also be hazardous if you need full range of motion to avoid a potential car accident.

Wireless Headset with Regular Phone
There are wireless headsets on the market which you can use with a regular phone, but do not think youll need to buy a unique headset for every phone in your home or office. There are also wireless headset devices which you can hook up to a regular phone, cell phone and PDA, as well as you can alternate which device you wish to use your wireless headset with. This kind of flexibility is key in this day and age of telecommunications - and for your wallet.

Wireless Hub

Is a Switch and Wireless Hub the Same Thing?
Yes and no. A switch can be described as a smart hub. A switch is used to link computers and devices on a network, but is able to distinguish where to send transmissions.

Generally speaking, in a home wireless network, all you will need is a wireless hub. Larger, more intricate networks, like in offices, should consider using switches.

Wireless Hub
A hub is used to link devices on a network. A wireless hub does the same task on a wireless network. The devices can be computers, printers, etc. Typically, hubs are cheap and an excellent way to link devices together on a network. If you want the easiest solution, Linksys provides wireless hubs and routers that are simple to configure and implement.

Wireless Adapter
A wireless network adapter is a device that is able to make regular, wired devices able to communicate on a wireless network. Typical wireless adapters include wireless USB adapters and printer adapters. You can also buy wireless adapters that permit desktops and laptops to link to a wireless network.

Wireless adaptors can afford an office with older technology to upgrade to a wireless network thereby increasing flexibility of office design, configured and safety.

Can I Share an Internet Connection With a Wireless Hub?
The short answer is no. If you have a broadband net connection with all computers hooked up by a wireless hub, only one computer can have net access at a time.

However, a router allows computers to share a net connection. You can then hook up multiple computers to by a hub, but only one computer on that hub can use the net at given time.

Wireless Adapter for Laptop
Wireless adapters are made for both PC slots and USB connectors. Both are easy to install and use if your laptop or desktop does not have a built in Wi-Fi card. Make sure to follow the specific wireless adapter instructions for configuration of the adapter.

Additionally, make sure you buy the right adaptor for your machine. Your best bet will be to bring all of the specs of your PC or laptop with you when you go to buy a Wireless adaptor. Then you are sure to get the right one - and do not be afraid to ask for help if you are not sure what you are searching for. Better to ask then to bring the wrong thing home!

Wireless Keyboard

Choosing the Right Wireless Keyboard
Wireless keyboards come with a variety of features and in a variety of styles. Choose the shape of the keyboard which is most comfortable for your hands. Some people prefer the ergonomic keyboards. The Logitech wireless keyboard offers several styles and features, from simple to advanced. The more advanced keyboards will permit you to easily access the internet, email, online radio and media. Decide what features you will need or want, as well as what your budget is before you determineon a wireless keyboard.

Wireless Keyboard Range
The range of your wireless computer keyboard will depend on the mode of keyboard which you have. Most wireless keyboards need to be within the line of sight of the receiver, making the range around 10 feet maximum. If you have a wireless keyboard which uses radio signals, the range could be upwards of 100 feet.

Benefits to a Wireless Keyboard
As with wireless technology, a wireless keyboard will help reduce clutter and improve mobility. By using a wireless computer keyboard, you won't be bound to your desk at all times during use. You can simply place the keyboard on your lap and answer phones, move around, etc while you are working. Wireless computer keyboards also reduce unsightly wires and clutter in both an office and home setting.

Wireless Keyboard Troubleshooting
If your wireless computer keyboard begins acting slower then average or does not perform optimally, there's a few things you can check. Make sure the batteries are charged or fresh. Also, make sure that the receiver, which is connected to the computer, is not blocked in some fashion. Finally, make sure which you are within the range given next to the manufacturer for the wireless keyboard.

How a Wireless Keyboard Works
Similar to a wireless mouse, a wireless keyboard works through plugging a receiver into your computer by a USB or PS/2 port. The keyboard sends a signal to the receiver. If you start to notice slower performance then usual, make sure that nothing is blocking the receiver and that the batteries in the keyboard are charged.

Wireless Mouse

Wireless Mouse Troubleshooting
If your wireless mouse begins acting slower then average or does not track smoothly across the screen, there's a few things you can check to make sure of optimal performance. Make sure the batteries are charged or fresh. Also, make sure that the receiver, which is connected to the computer, is not blocked in some fashion. Finally, make sure which you are within the range given next to the manufacturer for the wireless keyboard.

Choosing a Wireless Mouse:
If you are right handed, the Logitech cordless mouse may be the right choice for you. While the Belkin is created to be versatile, the Logitech is ergonomically created for your right hand. The Logitech also brings these features to the table:

4 button and tilt wheel built in to the ergonomically created unit
Functions on two AA batteries or use of the desktop charger
Cordless USB mini receiver included (and USB to PS/2 adapter)

How a Wireless Mouse Works
Wireless mice come with a receiver station which plugs into your computer by a USB or PS/2 connection. The wireless mouse will then send a signal to the receiver. The mouse will must be recharged, as well as will require the use of batteries or a recharging station.

Benefits of a wireless mouse
Using a wireless mouse for your computer is a really good way to reduce clutter and wires around your computer. You also won’t must worry about where you put your computer tower and if your mouse cord is lengthy enough. The range is excellent and it is one less wire to worry about!

Optical and Laser Cordless Mouse
Both optical and laser wireless mice operate on light technology as opposed to the old standard mouse wheel. The laser mouse is the latest technology, as well as light defuses better, making the mouse movements smoother and easier to use on non traditional surfaces. With both optical and laser wireless mice, you don't must use a mouse pad.

Choosing a Wireless Mouse:
Belkin is a really good manufacturer of wireless products. The Belkin wireless mouse comes with several terrific features to consider:

Versatile and can be used through left or right handed users
Operates at a range of approx six feet - really good for use in conference rooms
The mouse is rechargeable (YDB-F8E845)
Four customizable buttons, as well as scroll wheel.
Mouse runs on two AA batteries.

Wireless Network Tips

Office Wireless Network
A wireless network is ideal is an office environment. There is no must worry about running cables, drilling holes, or having huge closets or rooms full of cables for the office. It is less expensive to run a wireless network due to lower start up costs. If employees have laptops, it increases productivity as they can work in several locations and clients can easily hook up to the network. An office will also look more professional due to the lack of cables and wires running across the office floor.

Wireless Network and Your Health
There have been no scientific studies to indicate that wireless signals can affect your health in a negative manner. A wireless network uses radio waves to transmit information and transmit less then a normal cell phone.

Wireless Network: WLAN vs. LAN
A LAN is also known as a local area network. A WLAN is a wireless local area network. If your home or office currently uses a LAN, it can easily be converted over to a wireless network, or a wireless network can be added onto the LAN to increase portability, functionality and productivity.

Running Windows XP on a Wireless Network
If you are running Windows XP and having issues with your wireless network connection, check to see what service pack you are running. Most problems can be fixed through upgrading to service pack 2. Service pack two addressed an issue with it’s Wireless Zero Configuration, which affects your wireless network connection ability.

Peer to Peer Wireless Network
A peer to peer network is a network where computers discussed directly to one another for the purpose of sharing files and resources. This form of network is also known as an ad hoc network. This can be configured on a wireless network without the use of an access point or router. All the computers and devices will must have a wireless net card and be configured to run on an ad hoc basis. You won't be able to share a net connection on a peer to peer network.

Wireless Network Equipment
Setting up a wireless network is simple, as well as the equipment you will need depend on the kind of wireless network you determineto set up. For a peer to peer network, you will simply need wireless network cards for all the computers. If you are also sharing a network connection, you will need a wireless router and maybe a wireless hub, depending on the quantity of devices on the network. You will also need an access point, which can be a dedicated part of hardware, or a computer with specific software.

Benefits to a Wireless Network
There are several benefits to a wireless network, the main focus being portability. It is common for notebook computer users to use a wireless network card, which will permit them to access the internet, other computers on the network, devices, etc from anywhere within the range of the wireless network. Wireless network management can be simpler then a wired network, because adding new systems does not require wiring of an office or home, plus there's no unsightly cables to troubleshoot.

Trouble Shooting Wireless Network Problems
If your wireless network is acting sluggish or not working properly, check to make sure that all batteries are charged and working properly in your wireless devices. This includes laptop computers as well. Next, check to make sure you are within range of the access points and/or wireless router and that it is not covered with unnecessary objects. Check to make sure that all configurations are set properly and that there's no objects, like cordless phones or microwaves in the area that is able to interfere with the signal.

Wireless Antenna
A wireless antenna is used to boost the increase the range of a wireless network. However, be sure to check the hardware of the wireless router or access point which you have, because not all are compatible with a wireless antenna. An alternative to boost the range is to add additional access points to the network.

Wireless Network without a Laptop
Even if you do currently own a laptop, there's benefits to considering a wireless network in your home or office. It is easy to expand and add additional computers and devices without having to special wire cables. There are no unsightly cables to observe or trip over. If you ever do spend a laptop, it will be easy to add into the network. There are no holes to drill, no cables to string, as well as a wireless network can potentially be less expensive to start up and maintain then a wired one.

Switching to Wireless Network
There are several benefits to running a wireless network. You don't have the costs of running and maintaining cables and you don't must worry about cables when designing the layout of an office area. Wireless network equipment is comparable in cost to wired equipment. Changing from a wired to a wireless network will give your employees greater freedom and can increase productivity. Clients can stop next to the office and access the network, making transfer of files and data easier. Finally, wireless network management can be less intricate and costly then that of a wired network.

Trouble with Access Point on Wireless Network
If you are sure which you have configured the wireless access point/wireless router exactly as stated per manufactures instructions, there's a chance the hardware is defective. While this does not happen often, make sure you save all receipts and contact customer service and tech support of the manufacture to try to fix the problem.

Wireless Network: Access Point Definition
An access point is a station that broadcasts wireless net to other computers in the wireless network. An access point can be a router, computer, or special access point equipment. It can also be called a base station or hot spot

Wireless Network: Hot Spot
A hot spot is essentially the same as an access point, but is usually found in restaurants, stores, etc, where people with Wi-Fi laptops can access the internet. Sometimes this service is free, but sometimes it is a paid service.

Wireless Network Kits
There are several wireless network kits available for setting up computers on a wireless network. These kits include a wireless router and network card.

Wireless Printer

Wireless Printer Benefits
Having a wireless network printer has several benefits. There is the obvious benefit of not needing wires to link to the printer. While it is possible to share a printer by a network connection, having a wireless printer connection adds flexibility to the network. In a traditional computer sharing the printer, the host computer for the printer would must be turned on in order to use the printer. You don't have this restriction with a wireless network printer.

Wireless Printer Adapter
A wireless printer adapter is a device which allows your printer to be linked on a wireless network. The printer involved will must be a USB printer. The most common technology used with wireless printer adapters is Bluetooth. There are a variety of adapters available, depending on the needed range and number

Setting up a wireless printer
Adding a printer to a wireless network is the same as adding other device. You will must have a wireless printer adapter which is compatible with your printer. Generally speaking, you will need a USB printer. If your printer comes with a built in wireless Ethernet adapter, then you won't must use a wireless printer adapter You will must use a wireless print server to link to the rest of the network..

Wireless Inkjet Printer
Almost printer can become a wireless printer. If your printer has a USB connector, there's several wireless printer adapters which you can spend that simply plug into the printer and you are instantly on the wireless network!

Wireless Router

There are a wide variety of wireless routers on the market today. The features you need will depend on the extent of your network. In general it is good to look for one that has a built in firewall for security, decent speed and the ability to act as both a wired and wireless router, as well as good range. Belkin routers and Linksys routers are two popular brands. For the best range and speed, look for a wireless router which uses 802.11g technology.

Sharing a net connection with a wireless router
A wireless router hooks up directly to your cable or DSL modem by a cable. The wireless router will then transmit the broadband single to the computers with a wireless card in the range of the network. You will must make sure that the cards are configured for the home network, same as with a wired network, but after that, you will be wire free!

Linksys wireless router
Linksys wireless routers are an excellent brand which offers lots of benefits to users. Linksys makes routers which use 802.11g technology, which offers increased speed and range over older standards. They offer wireless routers in a variety of price ranges so they are affordable and functional for a wide variety of wireless networks. You can also spend a linksys router with speed booster technology to further increase network speed and productivity.

Wireless Router
A router is a device which connects one network to another. It is most used for connecting the net (one huge network) with a home or business network. Wireless routers permit you to share a broadband net connection between several computers.

Wireless Router with Firewall
Not all wireless routers come equipped with a firewall, but it is worth investing in a router that has one. Linksys wireless routers come in a variety of prices with a variety of firewall capabilities. Depending on the security needs of your wireless network, you may want to consider getting a wireless router with sophisticated firewall technology.

Belkin wireless router
Belkin wireless routers offer excellent range and speed. One of their newest routers, the Belkin Pre-N has eight times the range and six times the speed of regular 802.11g technology routers. They offer a variety of other wireless routers to meet the needs of small and huge wireless network administrators.

Best Wireless Router
The best wireless router will depend on your wireless network. If you have a small network within a small range of one another, it may not be necessary to spend the latest and greatest wireless router on the market. However, if you run an office or business and want to maintain quality speed and performance, it is in your best interest to spend the latest technology for the wireless router.

Wireless Router Password
Most wireless routers come with a default password of admin. To maintain optimal wireless network security, it is a good idea to change this password so others won't be able to access the router, firewall, etc and hack your wireless network.

Wired and wireless router
Many wireless routers offer the ability to use both a wired and wireless network. If you are't ready, as well as cannot make the switch fully to a wireless network, consider buying a wireless router which offers both options.

Wireless Security

Wireless Security: Encryption
Encryption is widely used for security of data, including wireless network security. Encryption is where data is translated into code for transmission by the radio waves. An encryption key, similar to a password, is needed to encrypt the code for transfer. If you are only minimally concerned with security, like in wireless home network security, you may consider WEP encryption, which some get easier to configure with their current equipment.

Wireless Security: Protecting your password
Your passwords are crucial to your wireless network security and should not be revealed to unauthorized individuals. Do not leave your password lying around or written in an obvious location. When entering your username and/or password, make sure people aren’t milling around and searching over your shoulder. Be very careful of responding to emails asking for passwords. Most legitimate companies don't ask for passwords by email due to the lack of security. These tips are useful for both wireless security and wired security.

Wireless Security: File Sharing
Wireless network security is important. Always make sure to require a password from users connecting to your computer. Be careful about what folders you permit others to have access to. You can also set passwords on specific folders to further increase security.

Deciding on a Firewall
The firewall you choose should be based primarily on the level of needed security, budget, reliability and the potential must expand the wireless network. The most simple firewall, with minimal security is one thats part of a simple wireless router. The next level up is a dedicated firewall. After that comes a dedicated firewall device with a gateway. Finally, the highest level of wireless security is a dedicated firewall device (such as a computer) with a combination of proxy firewall and full packet filtering.

Wireless Security Encryption:
WEP, wired equivalent privacy, is the standard encryption security thats built into all Wi-Fi devices. WEP does not provide as good of wireless security as WPA does, but is adequate for minimal security purposes.

Wireless Security: MAC filtering
All devices on a wireless network have a MAC (media access control) address. This is a different identification number thats part of the individual hardware. MAC filtering is where the access points on a wireless network will only speak with devices which you specify. MAC filtering is an excellent tool to use to enhance wireless security. This works really good for wireless home network security, because the number of wireless devices will be manageable to work with.

Wireless Security: Firewall
A firewall is either a part of hardware or software which is used to block outsiders from accessing a network. Firewalls are an essential part of wireless network security. It works through controlling traffic between given zones of trust. A user has the ability to decide what is trustworthy and what is not. If you are running a wireless network, you may want to consider using a firewall which is built into a wireless router.

Wireless Security: Securing your laptop
One of the benefits of a wireless network is the portability of computers. However, this can also lead to a serious wireless security risk – theft of computer. If you are traveling and using your computer in a hot spot area, don't leave it lying around outside of your eyesight. Consider investing in a cable lock, which will secure your laptop (or desktop) to a stationary object. There are higher levels of security you can look into, like cards that sound an alarm with unauthorized movement.

Using more then one firewall
You should only run one firewall on your network. This is real for both office and wireless home network security. If you run additional firewalls, you run the risk of conflicts. However, for wireless security, you can run one hardware firewall and one software firewall. For example, you can use a wireless router for the hardware firewall and firewall software on the computer.

Wireless Security: Setting Password
Remember that your wireless home network is broadcast by radio waves, as well as can be accessible to anybody with range. If you don't set a password on your ad hoc network, then anybody within range can access the network. For this reason, it is crucial to set a password to protect your systems and to increase your wireless network security.

Basic Wireless Network Security
There are several simple steps that everyone should do to help ensure wireless network security. When configuring your network, change the default names on the computers and set the SSID not to broadcast. Use wired equivalent privacy (WEP) encryption at a minimum. Change all default passwords for software and hardware. Finally, make sure to run antivirus software and antispyware software on all your computers.

Choosing a good password for wireless security
There are several tips to remember when choosing a good password for wireless security. Do not use your name, initials or easy to guess numbers, like address, birthday, etc. Any password based on personal information is a poor choice. Passwords should be at least eight characters long, as well as includes both numbers and characters. And remember, no matter how clever your password is, if you write it down where it is easily found, it won’t be very secure.

Wireless Security: VPN
VPN stands for virtual private network, as well as is another wireless security measure used. VPN’s encrypt information as it is sent by the wireless network. VPN software must be installed on individual computers, as well as in order to link to the network, a username and password is required. When used properly, VPN’s drastically increase wireless security and is a really good security tool if you are connecting to a wireless home network from a public hot spot.

Wireless Security Encryption: WPA
WPA, Wi-Fi protected access, is an upgraded version of WEP. This newer protocol is more secure then WEP and, if you use a good password, is much tougher to crack. WPA devices are backwards compatible with WEP; however, in order to use WPA for wireless network security, all devices must have WPA.

Wireless Internet

Wireless Internet Sharing
If you plan on sharing your wireless net access, you will must have that option turned on in your settings. However, if you don't have other computers hooked up to the network at this time, for security purposes, you should leave the setting turned off until the need arises to share the wireless net access.

Wireless Internet Speeds
Coming in at the slowest is Bluetooth, followed through 802.11b, 802.11a and topping the charts currently is 802.11g. 802.11b is roughly equivalent to the traditional wired 10BaseT Wired Ethernet networks. Therefore, switching to Wi-Fi should not considerably slow down your wireless net connection.

Wireless Network Equipment While Traveling
You will must have a wireless network card, either an adapter or integrated in your laptop. If you don't have an available slot on your PC, there's adapters you can spend that plug into a USB port on the computer. That’s all you need for equipment!

Finding a Wireless Internet Hot Spot
There are several stores and restaurants that offer wireless net access, like Starbucks. If you have a particular destination in mind, you can call the hotels to see if they offer the service. There are also hot spot directories which you can search to get wireless net access.

Wireless net - WiFi Standards
802.11 is the Wi-Fi standard, however there's other standards which are variations of the 802.11. These include:

802.11a
802.11b
802.11g
802.11i.
The differences among these standards includes speed, transmission frequency, as well as price. 802.11g is backwards compatible with past products, but thats not the case with 802.11a. Make sure you check on compatibility issues prior to buying products.

Wireless Internet and Dial up
It is possible to share a wireless net connection with dial up, but it’s not a very good idea. Some access points, like the airport extreme base station from Apple, will permit this. However, there's some slow down time with sharing a wireless net connection, as well as if you determineto share a dial up connection, you won’t be surfing anything fast.

Finding a Wireless Internet Hot Spot in a Chain
If you are traveling and know which you will be stopping at Starbucks, for example, as well as want to access the internet, you can check out their website to see what specific franchises offer wireless net access. Many places offer a free one time pass so you can ‘test drive’ the wireless net access that they offer.

Paying for Wireless Internet Access
Most likely, you will must pay for the high speed wireless net access when you travel. Starbucks i.e. uses T-mobile as their wireless net provider. You will must have a t-mobile account in order to access wi-fi at Starbucks. There are some restaurants that may advertise free Wi-Fi, but in general, you should expect to pay a fee.

Nationwide Wireless Internet Service
There are a plethora of national wireless high speed net services available. AT&T, Sprint PCS, T-mobile, as well as Verizon are a few which offer nationwide service. You will want to check out various pricing, roaming policies and fees for the various networks.

Mixing Apples and PCs to Share Wireless Internet Connection
You can mix apple and PC’s on a wireless network and share a wireless net access. For example, Apple makes an access point called the AirPort Extreme Base station. Even though it is made through Apple, it still uses the Wi-Fi standard, as well as PC computers with a wireless adapter on the network will be able to share the wireless net connection

Mixing Wireless Internet and Wired Internet
You can easily share a wireless net access while still maintaining a wired network. There are lots of wireless routers on the market which offer both wired and wireless network capabilities. It is also possible to add on an access point after a wired router for wireless access.

Configuring Wireless Access Point to Share Wireless Internet Connection
Once you install the drivers on your computer for the access point, you will be able to open up the configuration software that comes with the router. The IP address 192.168.0.0 is the lowest in the network and should be dedicated to the router. Make sure to follow the specific configuration instructions that come with your wireless router, as each product will be slightly unique from one another.

Wireless Internet Equipment
The beauty of the WI-FI is that it set a standard for wireless networking. Because of this, you don't must have equipment from all the same venders in order to run a successful wireless network. You will be able to share wireless net access as well without having equipment from all the same venders.

Configuring Wireless Internet Card
You will must use the configuration software that comes with your network card to configure your computer to work at various hot spots. Simply mode in the hotspot network name (various depending on the service you are using) and state the mode of network, like access point. You can also scan available wireless broadband net access in the area and choose which network you wish to link with.

Wireless Internet – WIFI
WI-FI, the 802.11 standard, is important for a variety of reasons. Having a standard in the industry ensures that anybody using wi-fi will be using the same standard, therefore equipment and connections are interchangeable. Having a set standard makes setting up wireless networks, sharing wireless net access and working with wireless equipment more users friendly.

Q. I’ve recently read a bunch in the national press regarding so-called Wi-Fi theft and the ways in which people piggyback onto their neighbours wireless connections to commit online crimes. If I wanted to check if somebody was using my wireless router to access the net without my permission, would I be right in thinking that if I opened the My Network Places dialog and selected View Workgroup Computers, I would be able to see intruding users? If not, then what’s the best way to monitor my wireless security?
A. Intruders will usually only show up in My Network Places if the intruder is using the same workgroup name as you. The best place to look is in your router’s admin area, to see which computers are connected. If your router is set to act as a DHCP server, which most are, then the intruder’s computer name will show up. However, you shouldn’t have intruders if you have properly secured your network, so let us show you how.
Step 1:
Login to your router and go to the area where you can change network settings. Have a look to see if your router assigns IP addresses through DHCP, which is the default. Examine the list of attached devices, if you don’t recognise them, you may have an intruder.
Step 2:
The best way to stop anybody connecting to your router without permission is to use WEP or preferably WPA encryption. Set your router to use WPA-Personal and the WPA2 standard if possible. Choose and enter your pass phrase and give it only to those who must connect.
Step 3:
If you router doesn’t support WPA, or you don’t want to use encryption, you can use MAC authorisation instead. You will must know the MAC address of your Wi-Fi card, as well as enter it into your router. You can use this alongside standard security for the utmost protection.

How to Secure a Wireless Network

Wireless networks are extremely convenient, but that convenience comes at a price: security. With a traditional wired network, data is channeled through cables and cannot be easily intercepted. With a wireless network, data is beamed through the sky and can be more easily intercepted – unless, that is, you have appropriate security measures in place. This article explains how to secure a wireless network against attack.

Before outlining the steps you should take to secure a wireless network, let’s quickly look at a couple of things that you probably don’t want to do: namely, disabling SSID broadcasting and enabling MAC filtering. The SSID is the name of your wireless network and its broadcast to enable people to easily find and connect to your network. Numerous Websites – in fact, just about every Website - recommend disabling SSID broadcasting (if the bad guys can find it they can hack it, right?) and enabling MAC filtering. However, MAC filtering is so easily bypassed as to render it almost completely redundant. With regards to SSID broadcasting, you can read more about this here.

So, if you shouldn’t disable your SSID broadcast, what should you do? Read on!

1. Use encryption. To stop outsiders being able to data this transmitted over your wireless network, the data should be encrypted. There are 3 wireless encryption standards: WEP, WPA and WPA2. WEP is the oldest and most easily cracked standard, so ideally you should use WPA or, better yet, WPA2.

2. Change the default account names and passwords. The majority of access points (APs) use default account names/passwords set by the manufacturer that are known to one and all. Change them to something unique.

3. Segment your network. Even when best practice is adhered to, a wireless network will be less secure than a wired network. Segmentation creates a barrier between the physical network and wireless network – by using a firewall, for example - and enables you to control access/communication between them. Unfortunately, this can be a somewhat complex job and, unless you have a fair amount of in-house expertise, you’ll probably need to retain the services of a consultant.

4. Authenticate users. RADIUS provides you with far more control over access to the WLAN. For more information, visit Microsoft's overview on securing wireless LANs with certificate services and the FreeRADIUS Project.

5. Update your firmware. The manufacturers of AP devices often release firmware updates to fix bugs and security vulnerabilities. So, keep your firmware updated.

Security is only as strong as its weakest link. Long and too often the wireless network is the weakest link. In simple environments, the network can probably be DIY’d; however, security matters do become more challenging in complex environments and in such cases the best advice may well be to leverage the expertise of a consultant.

One final bit of advice: the value of securing your own wireless network will be eroded if your data is bounced in unencrypted form over other networks. Educate your users and make sure that they are aware of the risks associated with connecting to an insecure network.

Stay safe on a public wireless network

A few precautions to take when using wireless hotspots, to ensure that your computer’s security doesn’t land in a spot. Like everything technological, wireless hotspots are a boon and a bane. While they ensure quick and easy Internet access, they also pose big risks for your laptop.

First, communication over most public wireless networks is unencrypted, so that anyone on the same network can use some tools to read the data you transfer. Unless you’re communicating with your office via VPN (Virtual Private Network), which ensures a secure, encrypted channel even over the public network.

Second, rogue attacks are very easily executed on the public wireless network. One of these is the ‘evil twin’ attack. In this case, the attacker uses a laptop or other mobile device to place a wireless access point (WAP) close to your computer, one that gives a more powerful signal than the access point you intend to connect to. The name of such a ‘rogue’ network would probably be a known name, such as Linksys, so that you wouldn’t be suspicious about connecting. Once you do connect, all your data will flow through the attacker’s laptop to the Internet.

The third big risk is ‘over the shoulder’. Say you’re checking email or shopping online at a crowded café or hotel lounge. There are chances of someone peeking at your usernames, passwords, and credit-card details as you enter them.

Here are a few ways in which you can guard against these risks.

• Take care while browsing

Public hotspots are definitely much less secure than your office networks. So try to avoid using them for transactions that require high levels of security, such as online banking or shopping. Reserve these for when you’re in a more secure environment.

• Use secure means

As far as possible, use VPNs for secure communication. Access email via Secure Socket Layer (SSL) sessions—many email providers support these. You could also avoid going to websites that require you to send sensitive information in clear-text, unencrypted format.

• Avoid evil twin attacks

To guard yourself against an evil twin attack while you’re trying to connect to a public network, carefully observe the icons on the screen that shows available network connections. If any icon shows two computers connected together, it’s a peer-to-peer network, something that’s used in evil twin attacks. Do not connect to such a network—the legitimate network would have the icon of a light beacon, and if it supports encryption, you will also see a padlock icon next to it. Prefer to connect to such an access point.

You can also tweak your Windows settings to avoid evil twin attacks. From the Wireless Networks panel, you can disable automatic connections; you can also configure your machine to “Connect to access point (infrastructure) networks only”. You could also give your home network a distinct name that cannot be confused with the names of other networks, so that there is less possibility of connecting to an ‘evil twin’ from home.

• Turn off all sharing

Your laptop may be configured for file and printer sharing. You should turn that off when you’re using a public hotspot. If you use share programs such as iTunes or have other shared directories on your laptop, you should turn those off too, unless you want to share your music and other preferences with a lot of strangers.

• Remember the basics

As always, the last line of defense is on your machine—a personal firewall and anti-virus and anti-spyware software are crucial. You should also have applied all the latest security patches to update

VoIP Hacks: Tips & Tools for Internet Telephony

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is gaining a lot of attention these days, as more companies and individuals switch from standard telephone service to phone service via the Internet. The reason is simple: A single network to carry voice and data is easier to scale, maintain, and administer. As an added bonus, it's also cheaper, because VoIP is free of the endless government regulations and tariffs imposed upon phone companies.

VoIP is simply overflowing with hack potential, and "VoIP Hacks" is the practical guide from O'Reilly that presents these possibilities to you. It provides dozens of hands-on projects

for building a VoIP network, showing you how to tweak and customize a multitude of exciting things to get the job done. Along the way, you'll also learn which standards and practices

work best for your particular environment. Among the quick and clever solutions showcased in the book are those for:

gauging VoIP readiness on an enterprise network

using SIP, H.323, and other signaling specifications

providing low-layer security in a VoIP environment

employing IP hardphones, analog telephone adapters, and softPBX servers dealing with and avoiding the most common VoIP deployment mistakes

In reality, "VoIP Hacks" contains only a small subset of VoIP knowledge-enough to serve as an introduction to the world of VoIP and teach you how to use it to save money, be more productive, or just impress your friends. If you love to tinker and optimize, this is the one technology, and the one book, you must investigate.

Download Link

Installing and configuring a Wireless Router

A wireless router affords laptop or portable computer users greater mobility in their homes and businesses. In most home networks, wireless routers are connected to a cable or DSL modem, and the router sends the signals and information that make up an Internet protocol (IP) thread to the user's computer via radio signals rather than wires.

To communicate with the wireless router, individual computers house transceivers such as an internal expansion card, a peripheral docked by USB or, in the case of laptops, a PC card or hard-wired internal device. For those accessing the Internet through a high-speed connection, a wireless router can also serve as a hardware firewall (as opposed to a software program), enabling protection from undesirable outside computers without exhausting as many system resources as traditional firewall programs.

Installing a Wireless Router

First, turn off the PC and modem, then remove the Ethernet cable from the PC and plug it into the router's WAN port. Install a second Ethernet cable between the PC's Ethernet port and one of the router's Ethernet ports. Power the modem, router and then PC, waiting for the system to boot and initialize before attempting an Internet connection.
Most routers are programmed with the manufacturer's default settings, including the network's name or service set identifier (SSID), channel and sign-on password. These default settings generally may be changed using included software or an online setup utility provided by the router's manufacturer.
Configure the router by entering the router configuration IP address at the URL provided, followed by the configuration utility ID and the default password. To find your router's default IP address and the default login info, refer to the owner's manual. If you own a Linksys router, a popular brand, the IP address is usually 192.168.1.1. Two other popular brands, D-Link and Netgear, generally use 192.168.0.1.

Connecting a Printer to a Wireless Router

First, check the documentation that came with your printer to determine how it's designed to connect to computers. Connections made through Ethernet, USB and (obsolescent) parallel ports are common, but newer printers are sometimes wireless-enabled and allow you to simply add them to your wireless network.
Refer to the owner's manual for your particular wireless router. Inside, find the default IP address and the default login info. If you own a Linksys router, the IP address is usually 192.168.1.1. Other popular brands D-Link and Netgear generally use 192.168.0.1.

Connecting Two Wireless Routers

Bridging two wireless routers involves configuring both networks manually. Visit each network location - which should be recognized by your computer automatically - and configure the appropriate Service Set Identifier (SSID), Wireless Encryption Protocol (WEP) or WiFi Protected Access (WPA) key and authentication information. Make sure you know the SSID and WEP or WPA key ahead of time.

Connecting an Xbox 360 to a Wireless Router

Connecting an Xbox 360 to a wireless router allows you to use Xbox Live without physically connecting your Xbox to a cable. Power up your Xbox system and the router, then plug the wireless networking adapter into the two slots at the Xbox's rear. Unplug any existing Ethernet cables and connect the USB connector to the port adjacent to the adapter. Use the system area of the Xbox dashboard to adjust your network settings. This should connect you to the wireless network.

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