Archive for May, 2009

by Ben Brook
Xbox Live is one of the most popular games around the world in this day and age. If you enjoy playing Xbox Live then you are going to want to make sure you are dealing with only the best Xbox Live compatible routers. With the best Xbox Live compatible routers you will be able to enjoy hours of endless fun playing your favorite Xbox games.

There are, after all, only certain routers that are compatible with the Xbox Live game and so you will need to be aware of what your available options are before you head out to make a purchase.

The Selection

One of the best Xbox Live compatible routers is the DIR-885 Xtreme N DUO router by D-Link Corporation. This is one of the few devices that is specially built for gamers. A few of the product features here include Dualband Draft 802.11n Technology, network activity display that gives you vital information on your router and network settings an updated GameFuel engine to keep your game going smoother, and gigabit LAN and WAN ports.

It is really not every day that you come across a router like this. This router has been designed with the gamer solely in mind, and with it you are able to experience the power of their Xtreme N Duo wireless technology for data transfer rates of up to 300Mbps and gigabit LAN and WAN ports to get your game on faster than ever before.

Another of the best Xbox Live compatible routers is Wireless G Plus MIMO router from Belkin. This is easily one of the best Xbox Live compatible routers available on the market today, and for several different reasons.

With this router you are able to share music, movies and data files among all of your computers with wireless convenience and ease. A few of the advantages include up to 1000 ft. of wireless range, 10x the wireless speed, guaranteed interoperability, and it helps by improving the performance in mixed networking environments.

If you want to be able to play your Xbox Live to the best of your ability then you are going to need to make sure that you have the right router. There are many other routers that you can choose from as well, other than those discussed here, and so make sure that you take your time and are aware of the selection that is available to you before making any final decisions.

For more information about Routers please visit my Routers - Aethra Routers website where you can find more articles and information about best xbox live compatible routers

Article Source: PLJMagazine.com

by Ben Brook
If you started out your home network system with just one router and now have more devices that need to be connected you may need to have cascading routers. Cascading routers is basically a way of having two routers work together. The best way to have cascading routers is for one to be a wired router and the other to be wireless. This is because you need one router to be very stable and to be capable of doing most of the work. Wireless routers are no good for this; a wired router is the way to go as your main router.

Speed

Your primary router, the wired router, should be a secure one but it may not be the fastest router. Your wireless router will most probably be the faster one here. Though your second router need not be wireless, it can be a wired one too. Though it is important for the primary router to be wired. Choose routers that will give you high network speed and good network features. Otherwise you could be faced with a very slow connection.

Primary Router

When setting up cascading routers make sure that your primary router is the one that manages firewalling, filtering, DHCP, port forwarding, and logging. It is very important that your primary router handles the DHCP. Any ISP configurations, port forwarding and so on that is still on your secondary router needs to be transferred to your primary router.

Optimal Performance

For the best performance you should make sure that both your routers have the same IP block. Otherwise you will have trouble sharing files, and other computers on the same network will not be able to access all the resources on your network.

Secondary Router

As mentioned above you should have disabled things like firewall management and port forwarding on your secondary router. However you should leave a filter on your secondary router, only if it is a wireless router. If it is a wired router than the primary router should handle all filtering.

This keeps out any unwanted spyware or other intrusions on your network. To ensure that both routers can communicate you should add the LAN MAC address of your primary router to your secondary router. When configuring cascading routers you want to make your WAN as useless as possible. So set your WAN to a static IP address. Now you can set up cascading routers at home. It may take a little trial and error but you can do it.

For more information about Routers please visit my Routers - Aethra Routers website where you can find more articles and information about cascading routers

Article Source: PLJMagazine.com

by Ben Brook
Ethernet routers are a key component of your home computer system if you have many devices that need to be connected to your computer. For example, printers, modems, other computers and game consoles. Having Ethernet routers at home is a good way to connect all these devices seamlessly into one machine and the Internet.

Usually you can connect up to four devices with Ethernet routers. Depending on how many devices you need connected to your computer and the Internet you can find a router, which allows more devices. Any device that you wish to connect Ethernet routers must have an Ethernet network adaptor.

Adding On

If you have looked at Ethernet routers that have less Ethernet connections than you need but think that such models fit into your budget you can simply adjust them. Using a network switch will allow you to expand the number of devices that you can connect.

Having a wireless access port is a handy thing to have; it will take up on of the access ports but at the same time will allow many wireless devices to work. The drawback is that other Wifi computers using the network at the same time will slow down the system significantly.

Advantages

Ethernet routers have an advantage over simple Ethernet cables in that you can connect more devices to your home network system. Ethernet cables restrict you to only two devices or two computers. If you find yourself with an increasing amount of devices that need to be connected to one central computer then Ethernet routers are the way to go.

You may also be tempted to use an ad hoc Wifi system instead of an Ethernet router. While this does allow you greater flexibility in terms of distance from the central system and the number of devices, it does have drawbacks. It is a less secure system and is usually used on a temporary basis. Ethernet routers are more secure.

For an ad hoc system to work properly all devices must have a Wifi network adaptor. You may also have to configure the adaptors to ad hoc mode as usually they are configured for the typical infrastructure mode. This might take up some extra time to set up and is a lot more complex than simple Ethernet routers.

If you have multiple computers that need to be connected it may be worth it to use an Ethernet switch or hub. The only disadvantage being that one computer must be connected to the Internet. The other computers will access the Internet through this central computer.

For more information about Routers please visit my Routers - Aethra Routers website where you can find more articles and information about Ethernet routers

Article Source: PLJMagazine.com

by Ben Brook
Although there are literally hundreds of different routers that you can choose from, Netgear routers are some of the very best and there is good reason for this, which you will find out here.

The Company

One of the main reasons that you can trust in Netgear routers is because of the Netgear Company, which always stands firmly behind its products. They have been a worldwide provider of technologically advanced, branded networking products for over a decade now. Their mission is to be the preferred customer-driven provider of innovative networking solutions.

For years now they have been delivering a continuous stream of innovative networking products that deliver a continuous stream of style, value and performance.

The Netgear routers not only work great but look terrific too. There is a selection of RangeMax NEXT wireless-N routers, RangeMax wireless routers, super G wireless routers, A/G dual band wireless routers, G wireless routers, and wired routers.

The Super G wireless routers are some of the most popular Netgear routers, and the 108 Mbps wireless routers are up to 10x faster than 802.11b routers and deliver twice the speed of the standard 802.11g networks when used in conjunction with 108 Mbps wireless adapters.

There is the Super-G wireless modem router with which users are able to surf the web, make Internet phone calls, pick up emails wirelessly, and much more. You can also share your Broadband Internet connection securely, and it features integrated 4-port switch for wired connections, up to 2x the speed and 4x the coverage of a Wireless-G router, and secure access to your office or corporate network using VPS pass-through.

Another of the most popular Netgear routers is the RangeMax wireless modem router. With this router you can wirelessly stream music, make Internet phone calls, surf the web, share your Broadband Internet connection, and use with RangeMax wireless adapters for maximum performance.

A few of the features of this modem include 6 internal antennas which scan for the strongest possible signal path and then adjust to interference, high speed connections with virtually no dead sports, and double firewall and wireless encryption which products your network and data.

When you choose a Netgear router you know that you are getting the best of the best and that you are going to be offered all the features that you need. They are also very affordable which makes them accessible to the average consumer and means that you will not be out as much if you ever need to buy a new one.

For more information about Routers please visit my Routers - Aethra Routers website where you can find more articles and information about netgear routers

Article Source: PLJMagazine.com

by Ben Brook
When you are thinking about whether or not your home is in need of broadband routers, you need to make sure that you are looking at all of the information that is out there. With so many homes having more than one computer, it is basically a must have and something that a home should not be without.

Broadband routers allow more then one computer in the home to share the same IP address, or Internet connection. This means that the computer users get to save a lot of money as they do not have to sign up for several different internet services.

Basically, the computers in the home will be able to share the Internet connection by using what is called NAT, or network address translation. This also means that all of the computers in the home can be surfing the Internet or sending emails all at the same time by using one of the many broadband routers that are out on the market. Also, it is very important to know that with broadband routers, you will have an extra wall of protection as NAT acts like a firewall. This firewall basically hides your true IP address, which means that it is much safer from people who want to hack into your system.

Prices And Availability

Your basic broadband routers will cost under seventy dollars usually but the more intense ones can cost up to several hundred dollars. Unless you are running an office with more then a few computers, there is no reason why you cannot go with your basic and simple broadband routers, as these will be so much more affordable. Make sure though that you really evaluate exactly what you need for your computer usage and then get the proper router that will provide you just that.

These routers can always be purchased online through different web sites or in stores. The good thing about heading to your local electronics store for the purchase of your router is that you may be able to find more helpful information about broadband routers. Just make sure that you have a salesman that is trying to do what is best for you and not just trying to up-sale you because it is their job. With enough research, you will be able to find a selection of broadband routers that are perfect for your needs without having to spend your entire budget and savings.

For more information about Routers please visit my Routers - Aethra Routers website where you can find more articles and information about broadband routers

Article Source: PLJMagazine.com

by Ben Brook
When you are buying something like a router you want to make sure that you are getting the most quality at the best possible price. Linksys routers are then a perfect option, and with them not only are you getting a terrific value but as well variety because they have one of the largest and most varied selections of routers today.

The Company

The Linksys Company is one that is reputable and reliable and this is why you know that choosing Linksys routers is going to be worthwhile. Linksys is a recognized global leader in VoIp, and they specialize in products and solutions that provide effortless and economical sharing of broadband Internet connections around the world.

Their worldwide presence as a company is built on a strong foundation of technological leadership and rapid time-to-market. They always identify local market conditions and existing legal restrictions, localized versions of hardware, software and installation support materials are available on over 20 of their most popular products.

The Selection

There are a few Linksys routers in particular that are famous. One is the Wireless-G broadband router, which is an all-in-one Internet sharing router featuring a 4-port switch and 54 Mbps wireless-G access point. It features a push button that makes wireless configuration secure and simple, and high security.

One of the most popular wired Linksys routers 10/100 8-Port VPN router. This router is incredibly advanced and is the perfect network solution for your home or small business needs. It allows multiple computers share an Internet connection with the highest security so you do not need to worry about unwanted third parties.

The Virtual Private Network capability featured here creates encrypted tunnels through the Internet which means you are able to have up to 50 remote office or traveling users to securely connect into your office network from offsite.

These are just two of the many Linksys routers that are available, and it is important that you take your time and personal needs and wants into consideration when choosing a router. The process of choosing a router can seem daunting especially to the computer novice, but with a little time and patience and time spent researching, you will come out of it with some great results.

Your router is one of the most important computer accessories, so choose wisely and remember that if you buy the right router you are making a long term investment, one that will last you for years to come.

For more information about Routers please visit my Routers - Aethra Routers website where you can find more articles and information about linksys routers

Article Source: PLJMagazine.com

by
Protecting your computer from all the virus and spyware threats out there today can seem like an impossible task. Luckily there are many options available to you that can keep your system safe. Before you can protect your computer however it is best if you understand a bit of how these malicious programs operate.

Computer Viruses

A computer virus is a piece of malicious code that adds itself to other existing computer programs and operating systems. Computer viruses can spread quickly and really damage and wreck havoc on computer systems, along with potential destruction of operating systems and data.

Viruses are programs that are specifically designed to infect and harm your system. They will generally get on your system and try to replicate themselves to other systems. They can do this through email programs, open network connections, and messaging services.

If you think that your computer has become infected with a virus disconnect it from whatever it is on. Once you have done that you will need to run a virus scan.

There are many options out there for virus software, but regardless of what one you use make sure that the virus definitions are up to date. This will ensure that your program can catch and remove the most recent virus programs.

Spyware

The next category of harmful software that can effect your laptop or desktop computer is spyware. Spyware can be just as if not more dangerous than virus programs. The reason for this is that while a virus program seeks to maliciously attack your computer, a spyware program seeks to capture information and forward it along.

Some of these programs are nothing more than mere annoyances, while others can try to capture your bank account information in order to hijack all of your information.

These programs can also be very difficult to remove. They will embed themselves in all areas of your system very quickly. If your browser is acting strange, or your home page has changed to something different for no reason immediately run a spyware removal program. If you have one that is up to date it should be able to catch most of the spyware on your system.

The best anti virus software is one that protects your computer from all types of malware, viruses and other nasty spywares that can destroy your computer. Many have lost their computers all together and then had to reinstall their operating systems and lost lots of data and all their files.

Computer viruses are nasty and using a computer without the best anti virus software is like walking through a hospital without an immune system.

Learn more about computer security, viruses, and all malware, with simple guides, such as the Best Virus Software guide and get free spyware removers and more at Best Anti Virus Software.

Article Source: PLJMagazine.com

by Thomas Pretty
The server cabinet comes in all manner of shapes and sizes and represents a considerable range of products. A number of different companies produce server cabinets meaning that the consumer is the unenviable position of selecting the correct type for their needs. The following article hopes to present exactly what a server cabinet does and how it aids communication and data transferral.

Fundamentally the server cabinet is an essential piece of equipment designed to store servers within offices across the land. The benefit of using a cabinet means that the need for a dedicated server room is diminished as servers can be housed within the office. That said, those offices with considerable communication needs will still require a room filled with cabinets to house their servers.

A server cabinet is used to keep servers cool, preventing them from overheating. Another purpose is to protect the servers from dust and other particles; finally a cabinet also helps to conceal the noise created by the servers. In the majority of cases they are designed to fit into the office environment without being to noticeable and obstructing.

As previously stated the server cabinet is available in a range of different shapes and sizes. The majority of cabinets are available in depths of sixty, eighty, ninety and one hundred centimetres. Also they can be locked to prevent unauthorised access, ensuring that connections are maintained in a secure manner. Most types of server cabinet will also have ventilation built in to prevent overheating.

A number of different manufacturers produce types of server cabinet. Prism is one of the industry leaders, creating fully self sufficient models; these auto servers are perfect for technicians snowed under with requests. Prism is not the only company however; while they may be an industry leader, more budget companies are rapidly becoming popular, providing equipment for those with smaller expenditure.

One of the increasingly popular types of server cabinet are the co location varieties. Essentially these varieties allow users to share access. In addition, strong cabinets are being produced that are extremely rigid and secure. Typically these varieties will have a glass or mesh access door, side panels that can be removed and a top that has vents included. Some varieties are even wall mountable to make the most of space either within an office or dedicated room.

While this article has not provided an expansive look at the different types of server cabinet available on the market it has hoped to act as an introduction to the subject. It is in no way the most interesting of subjects but it should always be remembered that these pieces of equipment are extremely useful and provide features needed all over the world for communication and data transferral.

Computing expert Thomas Pretty looks at the uses of the server cabinet and how it is utilised the world over.

Article Source: PLJMagazine.com

by Jason Oh
Refurbished computers can be a huge lifesaver if you want to buy the cheapest desktops or notebooks in the market. It is without a doubt that used PCs or refurbished desktop computers are light on the pocket. However, it is just wise to carefully check the cheap computers available in the market and to find one that will fit your needs and provide good value for your money. Here are some tips you might want to follow when shopping for used or refurbished desktops.

Before you even go to a shop that sells used or refurbished computers, you first need to identify the tasks for which you will use the computers. This is important because you would want to know the storage capacity, RAM and other devices that you need to go with the computer that you are going to buy. There is a tendency for many people to immediately buy the cheapest PC among the lot. This is really not a problem if you just need a computer for checking e-mails or for ordinary office usage. But if you need a desktop for gaming or other more complicated purposes, then you ought to thoroughly check out the specifications of cheap refurbished computers on sale.

The next thing that you need to do when choosing used and refurbished computers is to ask the seller what parts are inside the cheap desktop computers being sold. For warranty reasons and easy maintenance, it is often a good idea to find used or refurbished PCs that have parts coming from one and the same manufacturer or brand. You may think that this can be hard to do since many reconditioned computers are built with parts from different PCs. Still, it is not impossible because many sellers of refurbished desktop computers get their used and cheap units from big companies.

Also, you need to know the return policy or warranty that comes with the used or refurbished cheap desktops that are being sold. It is also good to know what are the peripherals included in the package. Not all refurbished desktops may come with a mouse, monitor, or network cards. Lastly, it might be a good idea to check the reputation of the seller of refurbished computers. It is always wise to buy from a company that is willing to tell you how they refurbish desktop computers. Good computer refurbishing companies are known to carefully test every unit that they recondition.

Jason Oh has an interest in computers and technology. His blog Refurbished Computer Explained provides detailed information on refurbished desktop computers. The website also offers useful tips of what to look for before purchasing refurbished desktop computers.

Article Source: PLJMagazine.com

by Rich Talbot
Our computers have become an indispensable part of our lives. For shopping, for work, and for play - they have reduced the need for stereos, encyclopaedias, and even the post man. We store our photos and our personal documents on them, we run entire business operations on them, and we trust all along that they will keep running smoothly and efficiently.

But computers are not perfect. Motherboards malfunction, CPUs stop processing, and files become corrupt, leaving us living in an electronic nightmare. While the loss of data, on a large or small scale may not be the end of the world, it certainly is frustrating and even heartbreaking.

The only defence against this potential catastrophe is data backup. The backing up of data is a vital function for any business, as lost information can cause a major crisis, leading, as a worst case scenario, to the failure of the business. Home or personal users run a similar risk, though perhaps without the enormous consequences.

Most large companies and organisations have IT professionals, in their permanent or temporary employ, who design and implement data backup plans, and who put systems in place to recover from potential disasters. They typically implement backup retention policies and off-site backups that are costly and labour intensive, putting them out of reach of the typical small business or home user.

Most small businesses and home users do not have any system for data backups in place, though they would do well to implement some of the standard practices used by larger business. While they do not have the same requirements, they do want to retain data for many of the same reasons as big businesses.

For small business and personal users, it is crucial to always make at least one extra copy of all business, tax, and other financial records; important text documents and emails; videos and photographs too.

A complete system backup, such as a disk image, will speed up the recovery time after a complete loss of data, but it is an expensive and perhaps prohibitive option.

A simpler, yet effective, option is to only backup data files and folders, as these will contain the majority of data that you would not like to see being lost for good should something go awry. Though it will take time, it is perfectly possible to reinstall the operating system and the applications from the original discs supplied with the computer, and then reload the backed-up data files and folders from their stored source.

Before data is sent to its storage location, it is selected, extracted, and manipulated. Many different techniques have been developed to optimise the backup procedure. These include optimisations for dealing with open files and live data sources as well as compression, encryption, and de-duplication, among others.

Using VBA macros, such as those in Excel, one can very easily create backup versions of active files and folders. This sort of advanced knowledge can be gained by attending a training course, such as an Excel Visual Basic training course, where the functions and implementation of macros are covered.

Author is a freelance copywriter. For more information on excel visual basic training, please visit http://www.microsofttraining.net

Article Source: PLJMagazine.com