Synopses & Reviews
It’s better with broadband, and you can do it...Whether you need Internet access to work from home, operate a home-based business, run a small business, or simply enjoy all the wonders of the Web, broadband is better. This guide makes it easy to choose among the many broadband options, get connected, set up a wired or wireless network, understand servers and TCP/IP, establish security, and take advantage of everything broadband has to offer.
Inside, you’ll find what you need to know about broadband
- Learn the pros and cons of each type of broadband service
- Recognize the specific issues affecting multi-tenant buildings
- Find out what you need to set up a network and where to get it
- Learn how security breaches happen, how to protect against them, and how to secure a wireless network
- Understand server and storage options and what you need to know about routers
- Troubleshoot network problems and deal successfully with service providers
- Experience streaming audio and video, video instant messaging, the world of broadband gaming, and more
Bonus Companion Web site!
Links to lots of cool places on the Web where you can find out more about broadband issues, gaming, music, movies, and more!
Review
“…with more exchanges being upgraded next year it might be worth getting a copy of this book.” (
Shetland Times, 3
rd December 2004)
"…provides plenty of useful information…" (Windows XP Made Easy Magazine, August 2006)
Synopsis
- This book outlines everything people need to make the move from a dial-up connection to an always-on DSL or cable Internet connection that is up to forty times faster than a standard modem connection
- Nielsen estimated there were thirty-nine million U.S. homes with broadband access in April 2003
- Gaskin explains available broadband options, shows how to pick the right one, describes wireless alternatives inside and outside of buildings, details how to connect more than one computer to a home broadband connection, and provides information about securing your wireless network
- This new Desktop Edition format provides need-to-know coverage of all topics related to broadband home networking in an easy-to-use format that will appeal to novices and techies alike
- Offers a useful customer service FAQ and a Web directory appendix that lists Web sites for additional utilities, tools, games, and more
About the Author
In 1985,
James E. Gaskin decided he’d rather sell computers and networks than try to buy them for his father’s company. So he started selling and installing Novell networks to small- and medium-sized businesses in the Dallas area. By 1988, James was on his own as an independent networking consultant to such clients as the Internal Revenue Service, First Gibraltar Bank, and Solomon Associates.
In 1989, James started contributing to Unix Today! magazine, and he continues to cover technology for major technology publications (such as Network World) today. His first book, Integrating Unix and NetWare Networks, was published by Novell Press in 1993, and he has continued writing books, articles, and jokes about technology and real life ever since.
His 14 (now 15) books include a best-selling series of five NetWare books for Sybex, and others on Internet technology, technology business management, and humor. James presented a series of NetWare and Internet technology tutorials for Networld+InterOp from 1994 through 1997. Media appearances include technology expert commentary for KRLD News Radio, Dallas, TX, and WGBH 89.7, National Public Radio, Boston.
An objective voice for the technology consumer, James writes a weekly column called Small Business Technology for Network World. He also presents topics such as The Hilarious Pain of Data Security to groups under the umbrella of GaskinGuides to Technology. Although unaffiliated with any vendor, James is biased toward cost-effective and intelligent technology products for small- and medium-sized businesses.
Table of Contents
Preface.
Acknowledgments.
Part I: Determining Which Broadband Is Right for You.
Chapter 1: Why You Need Broadband Internet Access.
Chapter 2: Getting Familiar with Broadband Technology.
Chapter 3: Types of Broadband Providers.
Chapter 4: Types of Alternative Broadband Providers.
Chapter 5: Emerging Broadband Service Options.
Chapter 6: Pros and Cons: Choosing Your Best Broadband Option.
Part II: Practicing Safe Broadband.
Chapter 7: Understanding Computer Security.
Chapter 8: Examining Your Home Broadband Hookup.
Chapter 9: Examining the Multitenant Broadband Hookup.
Part III: Moving from Stand-Alone PCs to a Network.
Chapter 10: Server and Storage Options.
Chapter 11: What You Need to Know About Desktop Networking.
Chapter 12: What You Need to Know About TCP/IP Networks and Routing.
Chapter 13: Backup and Disaster Recovery.
Part IV: Linking Your Network Devices.
Chapter 14: Wired Connection Options.
Chapter 15: Wireless Connection Options.
Chapter 16: Wireless Security in Depth.
Chapter 17: Avoiding Wireless Eavesdropping and Hacking.
Part V: Troubleshooting.
Chapter 18: Troubleshooting Internet Access Problems.
Chapter 19: Troubleshooting Your Side of the Connection.
Appendix A: Quick Hits Roundup.
Appendix B: Additional Web Directory Listings.
Appendix C: Broadband, Internet, and Networking Definitions.
Index.