Generally speaking, wireless computer connections are reliable. However, nothing is perfect, and sometimes you may lose your connection or experience a weak signal. There are many factors that impact the reliability of your wireless connection.
For example, if your wireless adapter is too close to a 2.4 GHz wireless telephone, you may notice a decrease in your computer's wireless single strength. Why? Because the phone and the computer reside on the same frequency and can interfere with each other's performance.
Handy Repair Checklist for Wireless Interruptions
1. First check to see if your cable or DSL is actually working. Usually located in your basement, most modems have four lights. You have a live Internet connection if the "data" or "status" light is on. If it's off, or flashing, your cable is out.
2. If your cable/DSL is working, then reboot your computer. Sometimes, if your cable/DSL goes out for even 10 seconds, your computer and the wireless router may no longer be able to talk to each other. By rebooting your computer, a new IP address is assigned, allowing them to once again communicate.
3. If your desktop is wireless and you've moved the wireless adapter [the box that sits next to the computer with antennas], then you may need to move the adapter until you find a stronger signal.
About The Author
Sharron Senter is co-founder of http://www.VisitingGeeks.com - an on site computer repair, security and networking company serving north of Boston, Southern NH and Maine. Visiting Geeks' technicians are crackerjacks at squashing viruses, popups and securing and making computers perform faster. Learn more about Sharron at http://www.SharronSenter.com
วันอาทิตย์ที่ 19 สิงหาคม พ.ศ. 2550
What are Your Internet Connection Solutions?
Of primary concern to all internet users is their actual connection to the internet.
A user needs to look at all the factors and weigh the benefits and costs
Reliability - is the connection available 24/7, or do you get a busy signal?
Speed - at what speeds can a user upload and download files?
Costs - what are the setup and monthly costs for the internet connection service?
Support - is support available 24/7 and is it free or is there a cost associated with it?
Availability - is the desired service available at your location?
Available options with good and bad features include:
Local dial up with phone company (local isp) - While this many times is the simplest, often times, they are the most costly and support can be an issue. Speeds are typically the slowest at 26k to 56k connection speeds.
Software file compression- If you only have 26k dialup isp connections available to you or you want to speed up your DSL connections, this is an important option you should take a look at. With this type of software you can increase your internet connection speeds by as much as five times for very little money. Popular software products that accomplish this are ActiveSpeed, PropelAccelerator, Dr. Speed, and SuperSpeeder, Highly recommended solution to increasing your browsing experience.
Local dial up with national firm - This is by far the most popular with companies like AOL, People PC, Juno, EarthLink, and Netzero providing this service to millions of users. These certainly are the most cost effective and provide excellent 24/7 support. With the high speed upgrade options you can approach 112 k speeds. If the company has a local or toll free number available in your area, then this alternative provides the lowest cost isp internet connection.
Cable connection - If cable TV is available in your area, many firms also provide an internet connection for an additional fee. Requires special cable modem. Speeds are anywhere from 512k to 10Mps.
DSL or digital service line - Many local phone companies are providing this service to selected areas. Requires installation of DSL modem on your computer and speeds typically are from 512k to 9Mps. The distance from the local hub also affects your speed. You will pay 2 to 3 times the costs of basic dial up.
Broadband - Is a term loosely thrown around that is applied to a DSL, cable, wireless, or satellite internet connections. Technically broadband is a minimum of 1.5Mbs but is used to market products with bandwidth as low as 512k. When you hear the term broadband used, think like "health food", an undefined marketing catch word.
Wireless internet connection - This option is available in limited area's and requires a wireless modem on your computer. Speeds typically are 2Mbps and this is a flexible approach as you do not need to be hardwired or plugged in. Available in many metro area's.
Satellite internet connection - This is the perfect solution for remote area's if you require a high speed internet connection. Upload and download speeds are different and in some cases you can only download via satellite and are required to upload via dial up. This is the most expensive alternative, but you can get service basically anywhere in the world. Speeds starting at 500k are available. Contact Directway for dependable and fast satellite internet connections.
About The Author
Ray LaFoy has been providing professional web and software development services since 1999. Living in Montana, he has made a career of excelling in marketing.
A user needs to look at all the factors and weigh the benefits and costs
Reliability - is the connection available 24/7, or do you get a busy signal?
Speed - at what speeds can a user upload and download files?
Costs - what are the setup and monthly costs for the internet connection service?
Support - is support available 24/7 and is it free or is there a cost associated with it?
Availability - is the desired service available at your location?
Available options with good and bad features include:
Local dial up with phone company (local isp) - While this many times is the simplest, often times, they are the most costly and support can be an issue. Speeds are typically the slowest at 26k to 56k connection speeds.
Software file compression- If you only have 26k dialup isp connections available to you or you want to speed up your DSL connections, this is an important option you should take a look at. With this type of software you can increase your internet connection speeds by as much as five times for very little money. Popular software products that accomplish this are ActiveSpeed, PropelAccelerator, Dr. Speed, and SuperSpeeder, Highly recommended solution to increasing your browsing experience.
Local dial up with national firm - This is by far the most popular with companies like AOL, People PC, Juno, EarthLink, and Netzero providing this service to millions of users. These certainly are the most cost effective and provide excellent 24/7 support. With the high speed upgrade options you can approach 112 k speeds. If the company has a local or toll free number available in your area, then this alternative provides the lowest cost isp internet connection.
Cable connection - If cable TV is available in your area, many firms also provide an internet connection for an additional fee. Requires special cable modem. Speeds are anywhere from 512k to 10Mps.
DSL or digital service line - Many local phone companies are providing this service to selected areas. Requires installation of DSL modem on your computer and speeds typically are from 512k to 9Mps. The distance from the local hub also affects your speed. You will pay 2 to 3 times the costs of basic dial up.
Broadband - Is a term loosely thrown around that is applied to a DSL, cable, wireless, or satellite internet connections. Technically broadband is a minimum of 1.5Mbs but is used to market products with bandwidth as low as 512k. When you hear the term broadband used, think like "health food", an undefined marketing catch word.
Wireless internet connection - This option is available in limited area's and requires a wireless modem on your computer. Speeds typically are 2Mbps and this is a flexible approach as you do not need to be hardwired or plugged in. Available in many metro area's.
Satellite internet connection - This is the perfect solution for remote area's if you require a high speed internet connection. Upload and download speeds are different and in some cases you can only download via satellite and are required to upload via dial up. This is the most expensive alternative, but you can get service basically anywhere in the world. Speeds starting at 500k are available. Contact Directway for dependable and fast satellite internet connections.
About The Author
Ray LaFoy has been providing professional web and software development services since 1999. Living in Montana, he has made a career of excelling in marketing.
Time to Redefine Telecom
Telecommunication, according to Wikipedia, is the extension of communication over a distance. In practice, it also recognizes that something may be lost in the process; hence the term 'telecommunication' covers all forms of distance and/or conversion of the original communications, including radio, telegraphy, television, telephony, data communication and computer networking.
While defining telecom gets more and more difficult, the profit and ethics behind the business keep on diminishing. SBC spent $16B to a company whose revenue stream is declining more than 10% year over year. Verizon bought MCI, and in order to make deal lucrative, they say they will layoff over 7,000 people.
The reason for scaling-down in telecom is that the technological advancement has terribly been focused on communications. We all owe a thank to nineties for that... Lots of technical people has seen the future in Telecom and made huge amounts of mind investment to the business. Today, we are forced to live in an overly competitive industry where telecom is forced to be cheaper everyday. To make matters worse, a company called Skype appeared. This global P2P Telephony Company decided to make old fashioned definition of telecom a commodity through its software, which allows you to make free calls over the Internet. Other emerging companies like Net2Phone and 8x8 also flocked customers to make cheaper (sometimes free) calls.
Some traditional telecom companies have kept an awry eye on those start-ups while adopting technologies like VoIP. They mostly thought those new technologies are something to monitor and investigate. In other words, they are disruptive. Some assumed the danger and started firing QoS bullet, as those startups do not provide top-notch service like incumbents do.
The fact of the matter is, none of those business plans will hold true should they are based on making money on calls. Like Michael Powell said, "I knew it was over when I downloaded Skype..."
So, can we say that telecom is a commodity?
My answer would be no, if network providers accept to change their musty mindset. Three things are important if the full background of this new notion is to be understood. First is, telecoms exist to provide infrastructure. The rest needs to be handled by networking and computing companies.
The need for voice, video and data are going hand in hand. There is no value in them when there is no Internet. That's why, the second is, the new business plan should be based on the Internet access. If telecoms want to survive, charging customers packet-based with the guarantee of excellent QoS is the only way to go. MPLS is their material to make this happen.
This way, optimization, the biggest concern of telecom industry, can be solved as the packet usage can be approximated. Demoting VoIP into an application to where it originally is can be doable in packet-based model. This new model will also disallow fighting against free-of-charge models and bring a fresh breath to network providers to generate more revenue.
Third is, not only the ability of optimization but also the prioritization and security of the traffic, if needed, will let network providers to put extra cash to their pockets. The money behind the content will not be their ball game.
Some may argue that there is no incremental cost of extra usage of packets to a network so the value behind tracking the traffic is nonsense. However, what is unseen is that it forces network providers to upgrade their systems quicker. They can also build their cost /profit structure easier.
Perils to the model would be the evolution span of MPLS and anti-spam systems. MPLS, as an immature technology, is welcomed with high expectations. Addressing all needs in such a short period of time needs a lot of investment. The story is almost the same for anti-spam solutions too. No customer would like to pay extra for spam as this is adding to the traffic that a user is using. That would force network providers to unify on an MPLS/ anti-spam model where they and their customers can rely on.
Once this new role of incumbents is well assumed with solid technology, then converting the so-called threat of telecom commoditization into an opportunity is feasible.
While defining telecom gets more and more difficult, the profit and ethics behind the business keep on diminishing. SBC spent $16B to a company whose revenue stream is declining more than 10% year over year. Verizon bought MCI, and in order to make deal lucrative, they say they will layoff over 7,000 people.
The reason for scaling-down in telecom is that the technological advancement has terribly been focused on communications. We all owe a thank to nineties for that... Lots of technical people has seen the future in Telecom and made huge amounts of mind investment to the business. Today, we are forced to live in an overly competitive industry where telecom is forced to be cheaper everyday. To make matters worse, a company called Skype appeared. This global P2P Telephony Company decided to make old fashioned definition of telecom a commodity through its software, which allows you to make free calls over the Internet. Other emerging companies like Net2Phone and 8x8 also flocked customers to make cheaper (sometimes free) calls.
Some traditional telecom companies have kept an awry eye on those start-ups while adopting technologies like VoIP. They mostly thought those new technologies are something to monitor and investigate. In other words, they are disruptive. Some assumed the danger and started firing QoS bullet, as those startups do not provide top-notch service like incumbents do.
The fact of the matter is, none of those business plans will hold true should they are based on making money on calls. Like Michael Powell said, "I knew it was over when I downloaded Skype..."
So, can we say that telecom is a commodity?
My answer would be no, if network providers accept to change their musty mindset. Three things are important if the full background of this new notion is to be understood. First is, telecoms exist to provide infrastructure. The rest needs to be handled by networking and computing companies.
The need for voice, video and data are going hand in hand. There is no value in them when there is no Internet. That's why, the second is, the new business plan should be based on the Internet access. If telecoms want to survive, charging customers packet-based with the guarantee of excellent QoS is the only way to go. MPLS is their material to make this happen.
This way, optimization, the biggest concern of telecom industry, can be solved as the packet usage can be approximated. Demoting VoIP into an application to where it originally is can be doable in packet-based model. This new model will also disallow fighting against free-of-charge models and bring a fresh breath to network providers to generate more revenue.
Third is, not only the ability of optimization but also the prioritization and security of the traffic, if needed, will let network providers to put extra cash to their pockets. The money behind the content will not be their ball game.
Some may argue that there is no incremental cost of extra usage of packets to a network so the value behind tracking the traffic is nonsense. However, what is unseen is that it forces network providers to upgrade their systems quicker. They can also build their cost /profit structure easier.
Perils to the model would be the evolution span of MPLS and anti-spam systems. MPLS, as an immature technology, is welcomed with high expectations. Addressing all needs in such a short period of time needs a lot of investment. The story is almost the same for anti-spam solutions too. No customer would like to pay extra for spam as this is adding to the traffic that a user is using. That would force network providers to unify on an MPLS/ anti-spam model where they and their customers can rely on.
Once this new role of incumbents is well assumed with solid technology, then converting the so-called threat of telecom commoditization into an opportunity is feasible.
Wi-Fi Hotspot Security
You've set up your Boingo account, you're hanging out at the Home Turf sports bar in LAX and you figure you'll do a little business or check your e-mail while sipping a Chardonnay. Well, that's the point of Wi-Fi hotspots; being able to take care of a few things while in a relaxing atmosphere.
Don't, however, get so relaxed that you ignore security and give all your confidential information to some unscrupulous hacker. Yeah, you see the guy. He's over in the corner wearing that fake nose and glasses with the ridiculous Bozo the Clown cap. Yep, drinking a Blatz. Dead give away.
Sorry, they won't be that obvious, I doubt they ever drink Blatz and very seldom wear clown caps. When you're thinking back, trying to remember who was around when your password was stolen, you probably won't remember the woman in the tastefully tailored business suit, and if, by chance, you do, she won't be the one you suspect. The best defense is to implement some simple security practices and measures that will safeguard your business and personal information.
Hot Spot Security: Simple Stuff
Be aware of those around you.
When you're considering Wi-Fi security in public places one of the first safeguards is anything but high tech. Remember a few years ago when people were getting huge phone bills because someone was watching as they keyed in pass codes? It's still happening to Wi-Fi network subscribers. Do what you can to keep prying eyes from your keyboard and screen. You pay good money for your monthly subscription and there's no reason to let anyone piggyback or steal your credit card number as you sign up for a daily use fee at Starbucks.
Speaking of passwords:
Those of us who toil and travel are prime targets for those who may be of the persuasion to purloin. In other words, it's quite possible to be targeted for laptop theft. Use a complex password to protect your files, folders and laptop from access by those villains of concourse and lobby.
Don't Share!
Yes, I know, mothers have been telling us to share for centuries but, at least while using a Wi-Fi hotspot, make sure you disable file sharing. It might be great for the home and good at the office but it's disaster in the making at your favorite coffee house.
Use a Personal Firewall.
If you're using a corporate laptop make sure you talk to your IT department before you install any firewalls but if the laptop you're using is your own let me suggest downloading a copy of ZoneAlarm. There are others of course but, for personal use, since ZoneAlarm is free and seems to test better than the rest I can't see a reason to recommend another.
Most of the reasons for using a firewall should be self-evident but, to say the least, you'll want to be made aware of any traffic coming or going and any unusual communication between applications.
Hot Spot Security: Less Simple Stuff
Beware the Evil Twin
Otherwise known as 'Rogue Hotspots' or the 'soft AP attack' this Wi-Fi version of the e-mail Phishing scam is perpetrated by hackers who jam and mimic the signal and SSID of a legitimate hotspot. They then serve up a sign-in page garnering usernames, passwords and, in some cases, credit card numbers. If they go so far as to allow a connection to the Internet they're then in the position to intercept unencrypted traffic as well as any files open to sharing (Don't Share!).
There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from 'Evil Twins':
Don't set your Wi-Fi card to allow automatic connection to any available network.
Check the list of available SSIDs to make sure you're connecting to the right one.
Turn off the ad-hoc mode allowing other clients to connect directly to you.
Turn off your Wi-Fi card entirely as soon as you're finished.
Use the personal or enterprise version of 'AirDefense', whichever may be appropriate.
Although a firewall won't keep you from connecting to an 'Evil Twin' it will help to safeguard your information should you inadvertently fall victim.
Encrypt Confidential Information
Data that's transmitted between yourself and a secure Web site can be counted on to be safe from the Starbucks Snidely Whiplash so when you're purchasing goods, or banking on-line, you can do so without fear. When you're logging onto the secure portion of the site, however, you may be doing so without the protection of security so be careful to note whether or not the sign in page is secured (https).
When sending e-mail there are a few things you can do to safeguard yourself. For example, instead of using Outlook or Thunderbird, take advantage of your ISP's Web interface which, in most cases, will be secure and should protect your data during transmission.
If you frequently encounter the need to send large files via e-mail then using a compression program will meet your need to reduce the size of the file and most compression programs will also secure the data with encryption.
Another option is to use a free encryption program like Cryptainer LE. Cryptainer LE can encrypt any or all the files stored on your hard drive, protecting them in case your laptop is stolen or compromised, as well as allow you to e-mail them with the security of encryption. Cryptainer PE is also offered for enterprise applications.
Use a Virtual Private Network
Think of a virtual private network (VPN) as a solid conduit, or tunnel, between your laptop and your company's network. By using a VPN your communications will be as secure as they would be if you were sitting at your desk.
Mac OS X?, Windows? 2000 and Windows? XP have built in VPN clients and if you're a user of Windows? 98, ME or NT you can download the free Microsoftฎ L2TP/IPSec VPN Client from Microsoftฎ. If you're a Linux user you can download the free S/WAN VPN client.
While the use of a VPN is one of the best ways to protect your confidential data when you're using a Wi-Fi hotspot it is, unfortunately, limited to communication between your laptop and your company's server. If you want to conduct personal business with similar security levels the best solution may be the award winning GoToMyPC software.
Use Anti-Virus Software
It's somewhat surprising that so many people are aware of the dangers of 'net borne viruses and, yet, so many either fail to incorporate anti-virus programs like McAfee & Norton or fail to keep them up to date. When you're using a public hotspot it's more important than ever to have anti virus software installed.
Once you've got the software up and running make sure that it's updated on a regular basis and update it anytime you hear about a new virus or a new version of an old virus. If you've got an auto-update feature built into your program make sure you take advantage of it.
Don't, however, get so relaxed that you ignore security and give all your confidential information to some unscrupulous hacker. Yeah, you see the guy. He's over in the corner wearing that fake nose and glasses with the ridiculous Bozo the Clown cap. Yep, drinking a Blatz. Dead give away.
Sorry, they won't be that obvious, I doubt they ever drink Blatz and very seldom wear clown caps. When you're thinking back, trying to remember who was around when your password was stolen, you probably won't remember the woman in the tastefully tailored business suit, and if, by chance, you do, she won't be the one you suspect. The best defense is to implement some simple security practices and measures that will safeguard your business and personal information.
Hot Spot Security: Simple Stuff
Be aware of those around you.
When you're considering Wi-Fi security in public places one of the first safeguards is anything but high tech. Remember a few years ago when people were getting huge phone bills because someone was watching as they keyed in pass codes? It's still happening to Wi-Fi network subscribers. Do what you can to keep prying eyes from your keyboard and screen. You pay good money for your monthly subscription and there's no reason to let anyone piggyback or steal your credit card number as you sign up for a daily use fee at Starbucks.
Speaking of passwords:
Those of us who toil and travel are prime targets for those who may be of the persuasion to purloin. In other words, it's quite possible to be targeted for laptop theft. Use a complex password to protect your files, folders and laptop from access by those villains of concourse and lobby.
Don't Share!
Yes, I know, mothers have been telling us to share for centuries but, at least while using a Wi-Fi hotspot, make sure you disable file sharing. It might be great for the home and good at the office but it's disaster in the making at your favorite coffee house.
Use a Personal Firewall.
If you're using a corporate laptop make sure you talk to your IT department before you install any firewalls but if the laptop you're using is your own let me suggest downloading a copy of ZoneAlarm. There are others of course but, for personal use, since ZoneAlarm is free and seems to test better than the rest I can't see a reason to recommend another.
Most of the reasons for using a firewall should be self-evident but, to say the least, you'll want to be made aware of any traffic coming or going and any unusual communication between applications.
Hot Spot Security: Less Simple Stuff
Beware the Evil Twin
Otherwise known as 'Rogue Hotspots' or the 'soft AP attack' this Wi-Fi version of the e-mail Phishing scam is perpetrated by hackers who jam and mimic the signal and SSID of a legitimate hotspot. They then serve up a sign-in page garnering usernames, passwords and, in some cases, credit card numbers. If they go so far as to allow a connection to the Internet they're then in the position to intercept unencrypted traffic as well as any files open to sharing (Don't Share!).
There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from 'Evil Twins':
Don't set your Wi-Fi card to allow automatic connection to any available network.
Check the list of available SSIDs to make sure you're connecting to the right one.
Turn off the ad-hoc mode allowing other clients to connect directly to you.
Turn off your Wi-Fi card entirely as soon as you're finished.
Use the personal or enterprise version of 'AirDefense', whichever may be appropriate.
Although a firewall won't keep you from connecting to an 'Evil Twin' it will help to safeguard your information should you inadvertently fall victim.
Encrypt Confidential Information
Data that's transmitted between yourself and a secure Web site can be counted on to be safe from the Starbucks Snidely Whiplash so when you're purchasing goods, or banking on-line, you can do so without fear. When you're logging onto the secure portion of the site, however, you may be doing so without the protection of security so be careful to note whether or not the sign in page is secured (https).
When sending e-mail there are a few things you can do to safeguard yourself. For example, instead of using Outlook or Thunderbird, take advantage of your ISP's Web interface which, in most cases, will be secure and should protect your data during transmission.
If you frequently encounter the need to send large files via e-mail then using a compression program will meet your need to reduce the size of the file and most compression programs will also secure the data with encryption.
Another option is to use a free encryption program like Cryptainer LE. Cryptainer LE can encrypt any or all the files stored on your hard drive, protecting them in case your laptop is stolen or compromised, as well as allow you to e-mail them with the security of encryption. Cryptainer PE is also offered for enterprise applications.
Use a Virtual Private Network
Think of a virtual private network (VPN) as a solid conduit, or tunnel, between your laptop and your company's network. By using a VPN your communications will be as secure as they would be if you were sitting at your desk.
Mac OS X?, Windows? 2000 and Windows? XP have built in VPN clients and if you're a user of Windows? 98, ME or NT you can download the free Microsoftฎ L2TP/IPSec VPN Client from Microsoftฎ. If you're a Linux user you can download the free S/WAN VPN client.
While the use of a VPN is one of the best ways to protect your confidential data when you're using a Wi-Fi hotspot it is, unfortunately, limited to communication between your laptop and your company's server. If you want to conduct personal business with similar security levels the best solution may be the award winning GoToMyPC software.
Use Anti-Virus Software
It's somewhat surprising that so many people are aware of the dangers of 'net borne viruses and, yet, so many either fail to incorporate anti-virus programs like McAfee & Norton or fail to keep them up to date. When you're using a public hotspot it's more important than ever to have anti virus software installed.
Once you've got the software up and running make sure that it's updated on a regular basis and update it anytime you hear about a new virus or a new version of an old virus. If you've got an auto-update feature built into your program make sure you take advantage of it.
DSL Internet is a Simple and Easy Way to Get Fast Internet Service
DSL ? which stands for Digital Subscriber Line ? is a great way to get high-speed internet service, without having to get a cable modem, or live in an area that has cable lines. DSL providers have very fast and comparatively cheap internet connectivity.
To explain DSL, it is a way to enjoy high-speed internet using your telephone line, just as you would for dial up. Except that it has so many more advantages than a regular internet service could provide.
Have a look at some of the great ways that DSL internet can benefit your home or business:
- With a DSL installation, you can keep your internet connection open, and still use the same telephone line for phone calls; both incoming and outgoing.
- The internet speed that you can obtain with a quality DSL provider is much greater than that of a regular dial-up modem. To compare, you can get an average of 1.5 Mbps with a DSL modem, as opposed to only 56 Kbps with a dial-up connection (that's 10 times faster!).
- DSL connection doesn't necessarily mean that you'll need any new wiring. As long as you have a phone line with which to connect, then you're already all set.
- Many DSL providers will supply you with the right kind of modem as a part of the DSL installation.
There are a few minor disadvantages to DSL that you might want to note. But it is pretty clear that DSL is far superior than any standard connection to the internet, and if you have the choice, you should most certainly aim for the convenience of high-speed. Some of these disadvantages include:
- DSL connections work best when you are located close to the DSL provider's central location. If you are, indeed, close, then this should not be a concern.
- DSL internet is faster for receiving than for sending. However, the sending is still a great deal faster than standard internet services.
- DSL service is not available universally. You'll need to check your local suppliers to find out if they are DSL providers.
If you want reliable, high-speed internet, then you'll likely be looking into a quality DSL provider to supply you with precisely what you've been looking for.
To explain DSL, it is a way to enjoy high-speed internet using your telephone line, just as you would for dial up. Except that it has so many more advantages than a regular internet service could provide.
Have a look at some of the great ways that DSL internet can benefit your home or business:
- With a DSL installation, you can keep your internet connection open, and still use the same telephone line for phone calls; both incoming and outgoing.
- The internet speed that you can obtain with a quality DSL provider is much greater than that of a regular dial-up modem. To compare, you can get an average of 1.5 Mbps with a DSL modem, as opposed to only 56 Kbps with a dial-up connection (that's 10 times faster!).
- DSL connection doesn't necessarily mean that you'll need any new wiring. As long as you have a phone line with which to connect, then you're already all set.
- Many DSL providers will supply you with the right kind of modem as a part of the DSL installation.
There are a few minor disadvantages to DSL that you might want to note. But it is pretty clear that DSL is far superior than any standard connection to the internet, and if you have the choice, you should most certainly aim for the convenience of high-speed. Some of these disadvantages include:
- DSL connections work best when you are located close to the DSL provider's central location. If you are, indeed, close, then this should not be a concern.
- DSL internet is faster for receiving than for sending. However, the sending is still a great deal faster than standard internet services.
- DSL service is not available universally. You'll need to check your local suppliers to find out if they are DSL providers.
If you want reliable, high-speed internet, then you'll likely be looking into a quality DSL provider to supply you with precisely what you've been looking for.
Ka Band -Affordable Satellite Internet On The Way!
Ka Band VSAT* satellite internet technology has enormous possibilities for telecommuters, rural locations and eventually for Motor Home users around the U.S. - if it works! Ka Band satellite internet is an all new approach to sending and receiving internet traffic from space (satellites used for internet are at least 23,000 miles from Earth). *Very small aperture terminal.
The key improvements in Ka band technology from the "blanket" approach used up to now are:
1. Ka Band employs "spot beams" rather than broadcasting over an entire Continent?.a far more efficient use of the available bandwidth resulting in lower monthly service cost to end users (as low as $49 per mo.).
2. Ka Band doesn't require a very large dish (the dish is about the size of a trash can lid) to produce high speed internet in either direction (downloads & uploads are very fast), resulting in a lower equipment cost to consumers.
3. Ka Band uses technology that drastically lowers latency (the "lag" created by data traveling all the way to space and back).
When available, Ka band will enable remote teleworkers and consumer users to surf, work and email successfully at speeds approaching DSL & Cable for roughly $450-$650 for equipment and $49.00 to $95.00 per month for service. Users can expect download speeds at roughly 1500 kbps (kilobits per second) and upload speeds from 128-256 kbps, more than enough to handle most any work or leisure scenario. The cost is higher than DSL and Cable but when you can't get anything but dial-up, the cost might well be worth it for the 20,000,000 or so folks out there with nothing but a phone (if that!). Another benefit of this technology is users will now be able to take advantage of Voice over IP (using the internet to make regular phone calls). Current satellite technology (Direcway and Starband) has too much inherent latency to allow successful VOIP, unless you are willing to say "over" like a walkie-talkie connection, after each sentence! I currently make unlimited calls Nationwide for a flat cost of $25.00 per month and nobody can tell the difference in voice quality. I can call Europe for about $.03 per minute or less! The savings are big, but for some rural homeowners it might be the only telephone service they are able to get.
The service will initially be offered by Wild Blue Communications, a Denver based company, owned by several major Media outfits. Two other companies, SES Americom and Echostar have indicated they will join in the fray by next year. They are planning to start offering service sometime in the 2nd Quarter of 2005??.but I don't expect it to be universally available until late in 2005. I will have monthly updates on the progress they are making at: www.vsatus.com . If you have been waiting for super fast internet service, your ship might have finally come in!
The key improvements in Ka band technology from the "blanket" approach used up to now are:
1. Ka Band employs "spot beams" rather than broadcasting over an entire Continent?.a far more efficient use of the available bandwidth resulting in lower monthly service cost to end users (as low as $49 per mo.).
2. Ka Band doesn't require a very large dish (the dish is about the size of a trash can lid) to produce high speed internet in either direction (downloads & uploads are very fast), resulting in a lower equipment cost to consumers.
3. Ka Band uses technology that drastically lowers latency (the "lag" created by data traveling all the way to space and back).
When available, Ka band will enable remote teleworkers and consumer users to surf, work and email successfully at speeds approaching DSL & Cable for roughly $450-$650 for equipment and $49.00 to $95.00 per month for service. Users can expect download speeds at roughly 1500 kbps (kilobits per second) and upload speeds from 128-256 kbps, more than enough to handle most any work or leisure scenario. The cost is higher than DSL and Cable but when you can't get anything but dial-up, the cost might well be worth it for the 20,000,000 or so folks out there with nothing but a phone (if that!). Another benefit of this technology is users will now be able to take advantage of Voice over IP (using the internet to make regular phone calls). Current satellite technology (Direcway and Starband) has too much inherent latency to allow successful VOIP, unless you are willing to say "over" like a walkie-talkie connection, after each sentence! I currently make unlimited calls Nationwide for a flat cost of $25.00 per month and nobody can tell the difference in voice quality. I can call Europe for about $.03 per minute or less! The savings are big, but for some rural homeowners it might be the only telephone service they are able to get.
The service will initially be offered by Wild Blue Communications, a Denver based company, owned by several major Media outfits. Two other companies, SES Americom and Echostar have indicated they will join in the fray by next year. They are planning to start offering service sometime in the 2nd Quarter of 2005??.but I don't expect it to be universally available until late in 2005. I will have monthly updates on the progress they are making at: www.vsatus.com . If you have been waiting for super fast internet service, your ship might have finally come in!
A Cheap Alternative To Broadband?
Are you a dial-up user looking for a faster connection, but don't like Broadband prices? If so, you should take a look at a new service called OnSpeed, which has received rave reviews in Internet technology publications.
What OnSpeed does is to re-route web pages and email via its own servers, compressing the data on the fly prior to sending it onwards to your PC. A small program then decompresses the data, so that you can view it in the normal way via your browser or email client.
In my own dial-up tests, with a modem running at a nominal 49kb/s I appeared to get speeds close to that of my normal broadband connection of 598 kb/s - very impressive. Image quality is often reduced but the compression for this can be improved, though with an adverse effect on the speed of course.
Some file types like MP3 also cannot yet be compressed. The company is working on these issues however and expects to find solutions soon.
Unfortunately I was unable to use email in my tests, due to a 'port' conflict with a spam filter that I was using. The standard advice on the OnSpeed site for such cases is to disable the offending program. Not a constructive approach - to say the least - so I hope that the relevant instructions will be changed soon.
More significantly, the problem persisted even when I switched off the OnSpeed application on my PC; in the end I had to remove the program to get the spam filter working again. I expect that this fault can be resolved, but clearly there are issues in this area that need to be addressed.
The software is easy to install, and is available for Mac as well as Windows PCs. On the whole the service is surprisingly good, and a lot cheaper than broadband. Unlike other 'speed-up' techniques that tweak your computer's settings but result in little noticeable improvement, OnSpeed really works.
I can recommend OnSpeed for dial-up users who can't justify the expense of broadband, or who are not located close enough to a suitable exchange. OnSpeed is also stated to be great for mobile or PDA users, as GPRS (wireless) speeds can be boosted by as much as 8 times. It even helps with broadband if you can only get a reduced service in your area.
My overall rating is 4/5 - very good, but the email support needs to be improved.
If you want further details of OnSpeed, please visit http://www.On-Speed.net. There is a 14 day money-back guarantee, so you can try the service without any risk.
Copyright ฉ Richard Prosser 2004
Richard is a software developer and entrepreneur, and may be contacted via the 'Article Tips' site given below. This article may be published without permission, but only in its entirety.
What OnSpeed does is to re-route web pages and email via its own servers, compressing the data on the fly prior to sending it onwards to your PC. A small program then decompresses the data, so that you can view it in the normal way via your browser or email client.
In my own dial-up tests, with a modem running at a nominal 49kb/s I appeared to get speeds close to that of my normal broadband connection of 598 kb/s - very impressive. Image quality is often reduced but the compression for this can be improved, though with an adverse effect on the speed of course.
Some file types like MP3 also cannot yet be compressed. The company is working on these issues however and expects to find solutions soon.
Unfortunately I was unable to use email in my tests, due to a 'port' conflict with a spam filter that I was using. The standard advice on the OnSpeed site for such cases is to disable the offending program. Not a constructive approach - to say the least - so I hope that the relevant instructions will be changed soon.
More significantly, the problem persisted even when I switched off the OnSpeed application on my PC; in the end I had to remove the program to get the spam filter working again. I expect that this fault can be resolved, but clearly there are issues in this area that need to be addressed.
The software is easy to install, and is available for Mac as well as Windows PCs. On the whole the service is surprisingly good, and a lot cheaper than broadband. Unlike other 'speed-up' techniques that tweak your computer's settings but result in little noticeable improvement, OnSpeed really works.
I can recommend OnSpeed for dial-up users who can't justify the expense of broadband, or who are not located close enough to a suitable exchange. OnSpeed is also stated to be great for mobile or PDA users, as GPRS (wireless) speeds can be boosted by as much as 8 times. It even helps with broadband if you can only get a reduced service in your area.
My overall rating is 4/5 - very good, but the email support needs to be improved.
If you want further details of OnSpeed, please visit http://www.On-Speed.net. There is a 14 day money-back guarantee, so you can try the service without any risk.
Copyright ฉ Richard Prosser 2004
Richard is a software developer and entrepreneur, and may be contacted via the 'Article Tips' site given below. This article may be published without permission, but only in its entirety.
Broadband - Will it Affect Your Online Marketing Future?
The coming age of general Broadband use bearing down upon us, minute by minute, is going to leave many changes in its wake. Some will be welcome; others will demand all we can do, just to keep up!
Of course, items like high quality graphics, streaming video and movies on demand will be commonplace. On the other hand, Broadband spells the end of most common text-only websites. Let's face it: the consumer wants more! Offering a good deal with high quality service won't do it anymore.
Websites that cater to the newfound appetite for quality audio and video content will get the sale. Obviously, that makes perfect sense! It brings to mind an experience I had while learning Photoshop. I purchased a very big manual and it took me three weeks just to get my feet wet. A good friend bought a video tutorial and arrived at my level of skill in two days!
There are many other things audio and video can explain better and in much shorter time than text, as in the example above. We're not talking just innovation; but also, the very deep and long-lasting impact the technology is going to produce.
I was reading an informative article written by Darrin Coe, titled "The Internet Consumer Exposed." It's a piece compiled from larger studies of the habits and lifestyles of Internet centered consumers. By the conclusions reached in the item, it does appear the consumer will smile upon the coming Broadband changes. Here is Darrin's website: http://dcoe1.tripod.com/exposed1/
There are some Marketers actively staking out their Broadband future. One that comes to mind is Jim Edwards. Jim is also a well known writer and syndicated newspaper columnist and - not to mention - a very pleasant person.
A week or so ago, I received an email from Jim inviting me to witness the birth of his new multimedia Newsletter "I Gotta tell You." I was speechless! Very seldom do we get to watch one of the early events giving birth to a revolution! It is content delivery that's light years away and will only get better and better. Good work Jim!
Here is Jim's Newsletter: http://www.igottatellyou.com/
Another application that's blazing a trail into Broadband is the Instant Video Generator sold by Armand Morin, Alex Mandossian and Rick Raddatz. Though they claim it works as well with a dial up connection, I can see it carving out a big chunk of the Broadband market. I've gone to the website and viewed a few presentations. It does seem to work quite well! The buffering is almost instantaneous and the quality very good. Here is the website: http://instantvideogenerator.com
Conclusion
Start taking the necessary steps to get on the multimedia bandwagon or suffer the same fate as the dinosaurs! Broadband dominance will become an inescapable reality of the very near future. As Stark Trek's Borg say: "Resistance is futile, you will be assimilated!"
Of course, items like high quality graphics, streaming video and movies on demand will be commonplace. On the other hand, Broadband spells the end of most common text-only websites. Let's face it: the consumer wants more! Offering a good deal with high quality service won't do it anymore.
Websites that cater to the newfound appetite for quality audio and video content will get the sale. Obviously, that makes perfect sense! It brings to mind an experience I had while learning Photoshop. I purchased a very big manual and it took me three weeks just to get my feet wet. A good friend bought a video tutorial and arrived at my level of skill in two days!
There are many other things audio and video can explain better and in much shorter time than text, as in the example above. We're not talking just innovation; but also, the very deep and long-lasting impact the technology is going to produce.
I was reading an informative article written by Darrin Coe, titled "The Internet Consumer Exposed." It's a piece compiled from larger studies of the habits and lifestyles of Internet centered consumers. By the conclusions reached in the item, it does appear the consumer will smile upon the coming Broadband changes. Here is Darrin's website: http://dcoe1.tripod.com/exposed1/
There are some Marketers actively staking out their Broadband future. One that comes to mind is Jim Edwards. Jim is also a well known writer and syndicated newspaper columnist and - not to mention - a very pleasant person.
A week or so ago, I received an email from Jim inviting me to witness the birth of his new multimedia Newsletter "I Gotta tell You." I was speechless! Very seldom do we get to watch one of the early events giving birth to a revolution! It is content delivery that's light years away and will only get better and better. Good work Jim!
Here is Jim's Newsletter: http://www.igottatellyou.com/
Another application that's blazing a trail into Broadband is the Instant Video Generator sold by Armand Morin, Alex Mandossian and Rick Raddatz. Though they claim it works as well with a dial up connection, I can see it carving out a big chunk of the Broadband market. I've gone to the website and viewed a few presentations. It does seem to work quite well! The buffering is almost instantaneous and the quality very good. Here is the website: http://instantvideogenerator.com
Conclusion
Start taking the necessary steps to get on the multimedia bandwagon or suffer the same fate as the dinosaurs! Broadband dominance will become an inescapable reality of the very near future. As Stark Trek's Borg say: "Resistance is futile, you will be assimilated!"
In technology demonstrations held at CTIA (Booth 2822 – Sands Convention Center) and later the same week at CeBIT (Hall 26, stand E68), the new browser is shown running on the modified Nokia 6210 and Nokia 7190 handsets. The demonstrations prove that important advances in consumer services can be made very quickly and implemented in real-world phone designs. Nokia plans to start incorporating the browser in its handsets by the end of this year. Nokia"s WAP service delivery platforms are already today designed to enable access to XML-based languages such as XHTML. The server infrastructure will be ready for testing with XHTML-handset later this year, and future releases of service delivery platforms will be deployed in time for commercial roll-outs of XHTML-based services. As is the case with Nokia"s current WAP browser, Nokia will license the browser source code to other handset manufacturers, mobile phone operators, service providers, and others. Licensing information is available from www.nokia.com. The new software will support current WAP content, WML, as well as the new XHTML standard, ensuring both backward compatibility and the promise of exciting, next generation services. In addition, the software is designed to be extendable, so that its functionality can grow along with the capabilities coming in GPRS networks and new phone hardware designs. The demonstration also shows the use of cascading style sheets and an innovative, new rendering engine, which together enable a graphical user interface (GUI) for content delivery. This GUI, a standard feature in the wired world, will significantly improve usability for consumers and convenience for operators. The style sheets themselves are a major advantage, as they will make it possible to easily tailor content specifically to different handsets. Nokia will collaborate with a number of companies on XHTML application technology and content creation tools. The first XHTML developer"s kit from Nokia will be available this summer. Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is a broadly held company with listings on six major exchanges. Further information: Nokia Mobile Phones, Communications, Tel. +358 7180 08000 Nokia US, Corporate Communications, Tel. +1 972 894 4573, Email communication.corp@nokia.com An online version of our XHTML browser demonstation is available at www.nokia.com/xhtmldemo. A pdf version of the "Advantages of XHTML for Wireless Data" white paper can be found at www.nokia.com/press/nps_white_papers.html. www.nokia.com
overview
Ethernetworking Professional AudioEtherSound is an elegantly simple and open standard for networking digital audio. Fully compliant with the Ethernet standard (IEEE 802.3), EtherSound leverages the investment of high-tech computing and telecommunications corporations on behalf of the pro audio industry.Professional audio applications such as live sound, recording and broadcast productions demand ultra-low latency and EtherSound delivers: input-to-output transmission time is six samples (125 microseconds at 48 kHz), regardless of the number of channels transmitted. EtherSound provides bi-directional transmission, high data capacity at mixed sample rates and powerful control functions. As Ethernet evolves, EtherSound keeps pace, because the network interface is implemented in FGPA (Field Programmable Gate Array) firmware.The patented EtherSound protocol takes advantage of established technologies to easily and economically create real-time audio networks using standard Ethernet cabling and components. Available to audio manufacturers via various licensing programs, EtherSound technology adds networking and remote control capabilities to pro audio products and enables audio networks incorporating products from multiple vendors. Its industry leading performance meets the requirements of even the most demanding audio applications such as live sound, broadcast, and recording.EtherSound provides bi-directional, deterministic, very low-latency transmission of synchronized audio channels and control data over standard Ethernet.64 channels of 24-bit/48 kHz PCM audio, plus embedded control and monitoring data, are transported via a single cable. Depending on the sampling frequency other channel counts are possible, i.e. 32 channels at 96 kHz. Thanks to built-in clock recovery, an ultra low jitter ensures premium audio quality.Special care has been taken to ensure full Ethernet IEEE802.3x compliance. EtherSound networks support Layer 2 (physical) peripherals and use standard CAT5 or CAT6 cables, fiber optics, switches, media converters, and other standard Ethernet components. EtherSound systems require a bandwidth of 100 Mbps and may runwithin a VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) as part of an existing corporate network.EtherSound is licensed to a growing number of pro audio manufacturers and enables digital audio distribution networks incorporating products from multiple vendors.The protocol has been invented by Digigram and was first presented to the public in 2001.Download the EtherSound technology brochureDownload the ES-Giga System Transport brochureDownload the ES-100 Audio Transport brochureKey features64 channels of uncompressed audio per cable in both directions. Overall system channel count can be higher.Audio format: 24-bit PCM at 44.1/48/88.2/96 kHzVery low and stable network latency suitable even for live sound, broadcast, and recordingRemote control: embedded control data over the same cable with vendor independent set of commandsNetwork flexibility: daisy-chain, star, or a combination of bothFully Ethernet standard IEEE802.3x compliant. Supports network Layer 2 (physical) peripherals.Cost-effective and flexible technology integration thanks to industry standard interfacesFlexible protocol open to future developmentsAttractive licensing schemesWide range of applications: mixing consoles, amplifiers, powered loudspeakers, processors, etc.EtherSound networks replace traditional point-to-point connections by architectures that are easier to design, install, and maintain:Daisy-chainStarCombined daisy-chain and star EtherSound requires a 100 Mbps Ethernet network. An EtherSound system may also run within a VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) as part of an existing corporate network.The ability to use EtherSound devices almost anywhere in the audio system breaks through the limitations of analog audio or AES/EBU installation schemes. They eliminate the need to bring all of the audio to a central switching or routing location, reduce cable, cable run, and installation expenses, and greatly simplify system reconfiguration.Thanks to the inherent routing capabilities of computer networks, input and output allocations may be easily updated without physical changes to the system's topology. Configuration tasks can be accomplished remotely via straightforward configuration software, or locally on the devices.Thanks to the inherent routing capabilities of computer networks, input and output allocations in an EtherSound network may be easily defined and updated without physical changes to the system's topology.All channels are independent from each other and can be routed individually across the network. Up to 64 channels of 24-bit/48 kHz PCM audio, plus embedded control and monitoring data, can be transported via a single cable. The total channel count of an EtherSound network may exceed 64 by "overwriting" existing channels in parts of the network. Depending on the sampling frequency other maximum channel counts per cable are possible, i.e. 32 channels at 96 kHz.In a bi-directional daisy-chain, all channels are available to all connected devices. In star architectures, all channels are available to all devices "downstream" of the input deviceEtherSound embeds bi-directional control and monitoring data in the EtherSound frame and thus eliminates the need for separate cables for the control and monitoring of equipment. The entire network can be configured, monitored, and controlled from a single point using PC software or a microcontroller.In order to facilitate the development of control applications, Digigram, the owner and supplier of EtherSound technology, offers a Software Development Kit (SDK) including an API (Application Programming Interface), which provides easy control of the connected devices (including GPIO and RS232 management) via a vendor independent set of commands.The SDK is available to EtherSound licensees and Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) who want to include EtherSound control capabilities into their software:Background music and paging applicationsLogging applicationsControl applications, etc. Additionally, EtherSound licensees may extend the API with proprietary libraries to control advanced functions of their equipment.Digigram continuously tests Ethernet components so as to propose a list of switches, cables and other network infrastructure elements that offer best performances with EtherSound.Digigram cannot be held responsible for changes that manufacturers may apply to their products and that may change their behaviour.List of tested switchesList of tested cablesList of tested media convertersMore details about the EtherSound Tested ProgramEtherSound technology is available to audio manufacturers via a licensing program conducted by Digigram, owner and supplier of the technology.There are no fees of any kind associated with using EtherSound technology that is found in finished good products. Only manufacturers and developers of finished goods wishing to embed the technology into their products must pay the Licensing fees.The EtherSound licensing scheme offers multiple levels. In each case the licensee gets access to technology specifications and the full package of software development tools.Entry level: Hardware modules may be purchased from Digigram or authorized implementors. The possibility of customization by Digigram or authorized implementers exists.Advanced level: Manufacture Only Intellectual Property (MOIP) includes access to reference designs (schematic and bill of materials) and FPGA binary file. Reference designs and FPGA binary file may be customized by authorized implementors. Hardware manufacturing may be subcontracted.Developer level: Design and Manufacture Intellectual Property (DMIP) includes access to reference designs and FPGA source code (except EtherSound kernel provided as an object file). Reference designs may be customized by the licensee or authorized implementors. Hardware and/or software design may be subcontracted. At all levels, the licensees may be assisted by Authorized EtherSound Implementors to accelerate the development process and limit development investment. These services are especially interesting for Entry Level licensees who want to bring their EtherSound-enabled products very quickly to the market.Click here to learn more about Authorized EtherSound Implementors.EtherSound Evaluation KitAudio equipment manufacturers may purchase the EtherSound Evaluation Kit offering a ready-to-use platform for testing and evaluating EtherSound technology.Authorized EtherSound Implementors are specially trained technology companies that can supply development services to the EtherSound community and manufacture hardware modules. Audio manufacturers who lack experience with networking technologies or wish to outsource parts of the product development can call on them to bring their EtherSound-enabled products faster to the market.Authorized Implementors have the right to design and customize hardware modules that may be implemented by other EtherSound licensees. They further have the right to customize EtherSound reference designs and FPGA firmware for the account of other EtherSound licensees.To qualify, a company must own a Development Level EtherSound License and prove the necessary skills of senior engineers.Today the following companies :
Implementors
Audio signal routing is part of many different software and pro audio applications:Background music and paging applicationsLogging applicationsControl applicationsSecurity and alarm systemsRadio automation, etc. To include EtherSound signal routing and control capabilities into your software, Digigram, the owner and supplier of EtherSound technology, offers a Software Development Kit (SDK) including an API (Application Programming Interface), which provides easy control of the connected devices (including GPIO and RS232 management) via a vendor independent set of commands.This SDK is available to all interested Independent Software Vendors (ISV). It is not a prerequisite to be an EtherSound license, althoug EtherSound licensees may extend the API with proprietary libraries to control advanced functions of their equipment.If you are interested in including EtherSound control into your software, please contact
audio signal
Audio signal routing is part of many different software and pro audio applications:Background music and paging applicationsLogging applicationsControl applicationsSecurity and alarm systemsRadio automation, etc. To include EtherSound signal routing and control capabilities into your software, Digigram, the owner and supplier of EtherSound technology, offers a Software Development Kit (SDK) including an API (Application Programming Interface), which provides easy control of the connected devices (including GPIO and RS232 management) via a vendor independent set of commands.This SDK is available to all interested Independent Software Vendors (ISV). It is not a prerequisite to be an EtherSound license, althoug EtherSound licensees may extend the API with proprietary libraries to control advanced functions of their equipment.If you are interested in including EtherSound control into your software, please contact
Why Buy a Cell Phone When You Can Get One Free?
The heavy competition between these companies is great for you, the consumer. The best cell phone companies all have very competitive rates, but some may suit your needs better than others. The savvy consumer can easily find comparisons of cell phone companies online.If you have a family who uses cell phones, you’ll want to compare cell phone family plans. If you make a lot of international calls, you can find the best international cell phone plans that will keep your cost down to a minimum so you can enjoy talking to friends and family overseas without worrying over huge bills.If you’re in the market for a pay as you go prepaid cell phone, you can find these online as well. Prepaid cell phones or pay as you go cellular plans mean you don’t have to have a credit check to obtain a phone. Often you’ll find a decent plan that will give you a free or cheap prepaid cell phone as part of the deal.After you get your new cell phone, you may find that you want to purchase some additional phone accessories. Most cell phone manufacturers offer a wide range of discount phone accessories including: batteries, colorful faceplates, cases, hands free kit (great for driving), and car phone battery chargers.And who can resist all the other popular freebies you can get with a cell phone these days: Free cell phone ringtones or ringer (pop and rap music ringtones are especially popular); Free cell phone games; Free cell phone downloads to your computer; Free cell phone number search; and Free cell phone wallpapers are just a few.It’s hard to believe that only a few years ago cell phones were something that only certain businesspeople used. Now, they’re practically everywhere and may actually make the old style telephones obsolete in the near future.While they aren’t quite as cool as those Star Trek communicators, they’re pretty close. Best of all, they’re free for the taking.
Are The Words Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery Planning Rolling Off Your Lips?
It might be more fun to talk about those free online business cards that are saving the company money, or those nifty designer business checks that are helping to solidif your branding efforts at the next staff meeting, but what really should be rolling off your lips are the words "business continuity and disaster recovery planning". Nothing is more important to a company than having a comprehensive recoveery plan in place prior to when disaster strikes. The framework for disaster recovery and business continuity planning will be different for every company. But every company needs to have a plan.If you are unsure of your company's plan, or if you think there might not even be one, it's certainly time to ask. If a comprehensive plan is not available, it's time everyone rolls up their sleeves and creates one. For the businesses continuity planning to be effective everyone in every department should become part of the process. The left hand should know what the right hand is doing. A disaster recovery planner can be very helpful in these meetings. If one is not available, disaster recovery software can be readily found on the internet to guide you through the process.Once plans for business continuity and disaster recovery have been made, the entire company needs to be educated as to what to do in the event of a disaster. Knowing what to do in the midst of the disaster as well as the days following the disaster can be invaluable. Ask any company that has experienced a disaster, and they will all tell you that disaster recovery planning is vital to maintaining business continuity when the unexpected happens. It could be a tornado, or a virus attacking your database. Whatever the disaster, having a plan prevents chaos. It is worth the time and effort it takes to implement. The consequences are clear... Fail to plan and your plan to fail!
Want To Beat The Odds? Disaster Recovery Planning is Essential
Statistics show two out of five businesses go out of business within five years of experiencing a major disaster.These statistics are staggering. Even if the business survives the initial attack or natural disaster, it typically leaves the business so devastated that long term survival is not possible for 40% of the businesses hit. Disaster recovery planning can ensure the viability of a company after an attack. Proper planning helps companies to develop contingency plans and put them in place that limit the losses in the event us such catastrophes. It is not just the big guys that need to plan, disasters leave small companies even more devastated.Business of all sizes should develop a business continuity plan, and test it on a regular basis. Every department and every employee should have a clear idea of how they should respond to a disaster. It this is not done, the company will have a much harder time recovering from disasters of monumental magnitude. The bottom line, disaster recovery planning for the continuity of your business is a key to survival in the new millennium. Business continuity planning is no longer something the big guys do. It is something the "smart" guys do.It is not a factor of size; disasters hit companies of every size. If you have a small business website you are as vulnerable as a large corporation when a new virus is released. If you had a mom and pop hamburger stand next to the world trade center, your losses in terms of percentages of the whole, were just as large if not larger than the multi-national corporations. Plan for the disaster, and your business can recover with the least amount of losses; fail to plan, and you could be out of commission for weeks, even months, or in 40% of the cases?forever.You can find expert disaster recovery planners and business continuity planners to help with solutions that are not obvious. You don't have to reinvent the wheel! In the wake of 911, and the terrorist attacks that are prevalent around the globe all businesses must prepare for the strong possibility of further attacks. It is not a question of if we will have further attacks; it is indeed a question of when. Can your business really afford to ignore the odds?
Comparing Data Recovery Software
Software programmers recognize the importance of data files, and thankfully, they have been able to create products that demonstrate their understanding of how often people accidentally delete or lose important data. Thanks to software programmers and development companies, people have a variety of data recovery software programs available to purchase in the event they've lost vital data.There are disk recovery applications that are specific to recovering files of a certain format, like graphics files as opposed to word document files, and there is software that can recover any type of lost file regardless of the format. If you've accidentally deleted an image on your digital camera, there is even software available to retrieve that!It's important to take the time to research and compare each software program before purchasing one in order to make sure that it will have the best possible chance at retrieving your lost file. Remember that there is no program on the market that can guarantee recovery of every file, as there are simply too many factors and situations that effect whether or not a file can be retrieved once deleted or lost. You can increase your chances for recovery by selecting the appropriate program for the file you are trying to save.Do-it-yourself software is less expensive than hiring a company that specializes in data recovery and you should at least attempt to recover your data yourself with the use of this type of software program if money is of concern for you. Even if money is not a concern, your first step should be to check whether or not recovering your data is as simple as running a software program, as that will be your fastest and most convenient way.In addition to recovering data files from accidental deletion, there is data recovery software that can recover files after you've formatted the drive, after a computer power failure, natural disaster, or files lost from a virus.
Computer Data Recovery Options
Losing files on your computer can be a frightening experience if the files are of importance to you personally or professionally. Computer data recovery techniques include the most simple of operations, like simply retrieving an accidentally deleted file, to very complex file retrieval procedures that only professionals should attempt to do.If you are trying to proceed with your hard disk recovery solution on your own, first start with the most obvious answer. Look in your recycle bin to see if the file has been placed there. If it is, you can choose the "restore" option, and your system will automatically put the file back on your computer where it was stored originally. Of course, if every retrieval was this simple, there would be no need for computer professionals who specialize in data recovery, so chances are you'll need to try a different technique to find your lost data.If you've deleted a file on your computer, and you've emptied your recycle bin, don't despair. When a file is deleted on a computer, it's not erased immediately from the system. What actually happens is the computer marks the deleted file as "deleted", and it is no longer in view to users within your computer's files. The file remains on the hard drive until new data is saved over it, similar to recording songs on cassette tapes. So, in order for computer data recovery to happen on files that have been deleted, you'll need to attempt to recover them before new data has been written over the file.The best thing you can do to increase your chances of success is to immediately stop using the computer until you've retrieved the deleted file. The more you use your computer, the more information will be saved and the more likely the information could be saved over the file you are hoping to get back!
Do I Really Need To Backup?
Okay, computers a machine, right? Okay, maybe not yours. You have this special relationship, but that a subject for another article. Machines break. Software gets fouled up. People make errors. These things happen, and for those reasons alone, you need to back up all your critical data, redundantly, in a couple of different locations.You can do this using the tools your system provides, or a utility you buy for that purpose, but however you do it, do it! Some more things that can go wrong include disks that turn bad and erase sections of your files, power failures or surges, the aforementioned human error (one of the most frequent causes of data loss!) overheating, water or your beverage of choice, magnetic issues and last but certainly most popular, computer viruses.How is all this accomplished, you ask? There are many ways to backup your data these days, from DVD's to CDR's to ZIP drives, to portable hard drives, as well as offsite internet backups. All have their pros and cons, but the cold hard facts are that it's becoming increasingly easier to back up your critical data.Don't let that lull you into a false sense of security regarding your sensitive data. Either do it now, and frequently, or start preparing an epitaph for your lost files!
Advanced WindowsCare
Advanced WindowsCare Personal Edition100% Free Download This comprehensive PC-care utility has a one-click approach to helping protect, repair and optimize your PC. Advanced WindowsCare Personal Edition helps protect, repair, and optimize your computer –– with daily use. Features of this fantastic, award-winning, 100% free program include:Ending slow downs, freezes, crashes, and security threats.Scanning and finding what other utilities miss on your computer.Keeping your PC error-free and running more smoothly than ever.Designed for Windows Vista, XP, and 2000.Over 5,000,000 downloads since 2006.Availability is free of charge for private use.Plus, Advanced WindowsCare Personal is 100% safe and clean with no adware, spyware, or viruses.Extremely Easy to UseCompletes its work with just one click. Scans, repairs and gives personal care to your PC in one minute.Defends Your PC with 100% FreewareScans and removes spyware and adware using up-to-date definition files. Prevents spyware, hackers and hijackers from installing malicious items on your computer. Erases and updates your PC’s activity history.Cleans your WindowsBoosts your system’s performance by cleaning missing files, destroying unwanted files, deleting obsolete files, removing junk files, and eliminating corrupt registry entries.Keeps Your PC Running at Peak PerformanceTunes up Windows by unleashing the built-in power of your system. Dramatically improves both system and Internet performance.Fixes Multiple System ErrorsKeeps your PC stable and running at peak efficiency. Repairs system configurations by eliminating system bottlenecks and preventing crashes.Safe and 100% Free100% free with no spyware or adware! Advanced WindowsCare Personal Edition is a safe and trusted solution from a leading software vendor.How does it work?3 Easy Steps from diagnosis to solution: (See Screenshots...)Step 1: Open Advanced WindowsCare Personal Edition.Step 2: Click the SCAN button and Advanced WindowsCare Personal edition will scan your computer for possible errors and necessary fixes.Step 3: Review the scan results and click REPAIR. Now, you’re finished! It’s that easy and pain-free. And remember, it’s 100% Freeware!Download http://www.iobit.com/advancedwindowscareper.html?Str=download
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