FAQs
Q: What is the difference in Wireless G and Wireless N?
The Wireless Network Difference:
First of all, lets define what we mean by Wireless Network: A Wireless Network is commonly called "WIFI" and is NOT the same as Cellular Wireless.
Some Smart Phones can now connect to "WIFI" and in that mode they are acting the same as your laptop computer; Connecting to a Wireless box called an "ACCESS POINT".
In a nutshell, Wireless N, the new kid on the block, is up to 6 times faster and will reach up to twice as far as the older Wireless G.
In order to get that speed and distance, you need to purchase a new Wireless N Access Point, and upgrade your computer to Wireless N by buying a new computer that already has N built-in, OR by buying a USB Wireless N Adapter for your computer.
That's really all you need to know.
If you want all the technical details, here is a link to Wikipedia with the technical jargon and history: Wireless Protocols
CONTACT IT Larry at Cobbwebs if you need help with the installation.
Q: What would YOU like to know about?
Let us know what I.T. related questions you would like to know about and we will place the answers here. Go to Contact Us and drop us a line.
Q: What about Windows 7 in my Business?
Back in 2001, life was easy: Microsoft released Windows XP in just two product editions, Windows XP Home Edition and Windows XP Professional Edition. The difference between the products was fairly obvious, and there was only ONE choice for the savvy business owner: XP Pro.
That is still true with Windows 7 - Win7 Pro is the choice for business owners.
if yours is one of the 70 to 80 per cent of companies that did not move to Vista - time has almost run out on XP. Mainstream support ended April, 2009. Extended support ends April 2014.
Windows 7 is faster and Microsoft took the time to make sure that most software works with it. Plus, Microsoft has made it possible (with the NEW processors from Intel and AMD) to run in XP mode. Now is the time to move, especially if you are running Vista.
You can check and see if your computer will run Windows 7 using the Microsoft Upgrade Advisor. HOWEVER, if you are running XP, then there is no "UPGRADE" path from XP to Windows 7. It is a "MIGRATION", which means you will probably need help to make sure everything goes smoothly.
Click HERE to check compatibility.
CONTACT IT Larry for further information.
Q: Firewalls: What are they? How do they work? Should I have one?
What are they?
A Firewall is hardware, software, or a combination acting as a barrier to protect your Network of computers from the outside world. In the past, very few Local Networks were connected to the Internet. Today, a Network connection to the Internet is essential.
How do they work?
Firewalls define a set of rules dictating what traffic can come IN from the outside, and what traffic can go OUT. Each piece of traffic is analyzed to see where it originated, where it wants to go, and what action it wants to perform when it reaches its destination. The traffic is either allowed to continue, or it is blocked.
Should I have one?
The dental hygenist will say you only have to floss the teeth you wish to keep. The answer for a Firewall is the same: You only need one if you care about the information that flows in and out of your network.
From the first second computers are connected to the Internet, they are exposed to an entire world of traffic, good and bad.
Actually, you already have a software Firewall built into your Windows PC or Laptop, and probably a hardware Firewall in your combination wireless and network router.
If you have questions, CONTACT IT Larry and let his engineers assist you with the proper firewall for your needs.