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Questions &
Answers
routers - modems
and wireless stuff
Q. I have a "Cable" modem and my friend said I
should also have a "router". What is a "router" and why should I
spend the money?
A. The "cable" or "DSL" modem is a direct link
to the great world of high speed internet. If you are directly
connected the hackers have a clear shot at getting into your computer.
You may not even know it but they can actually be using your computer
as a "robot" device to spam the world. Please listen to your
friend and spend the few dollars for the "router". A standard good
quality
"Linksys"
router should cost you about $79.00 at any store
like Future shop, or on line from Amazon. This device goes between your
computer and your modem and creates an almost solid barrier between
you and the great unwashed slime balls that consider hacking a
meaningful existence. I could write a 3 page technical
explanation as to what it does but just take my word for it and buy
the darn thing. Stick the installation disk in your
computer and you will be up and running in no time. Again follow
the on screen instructions carefully.
Q. So how does this $80 gadget "protect" me.
A. It is difficult to answer but I will
give it a try. Do you remember your high school math.
"permutations and combinations". Well the router hooks to the
high speed device on one set of numbers such as 234.345.321.068.
This is a number that your internet provider uses for your account.
On the other side of the device there are usually 4
"ports" or places to plug your computer or other gadgets into.
The router automatically generates its own set of 4 three digit
numbers to each one of these "ports". This make it virtually
impossible for the scum bags to get at your computer by scanning.
Their scanners just see a black hole when they hit the router and they
move on to other potential victims.
If you are not willing to purchase a router to defend
yourself then don't bother ever asking me for help. Also
remember I recommend
"Linksys"
brand product. It works and their
support is great if you mess up. The only reason the sales
person will try to sell you something else is for bigger commission.
Q. I have had my computer for 3 years now
and have never had a problem and I don't have a router. I
really don't see the need!
A. Well you may have a problem and not
even know about it. As I said earlier the creeps and geeks can
use your computer as a robot device to spam the world and you might
eventually get a knock at your door. "Excuse me sir but we have
a search warrant for your computer". What's that about? You ask
with great surprise and indignation. "Well sir it seems that you
are distributing #$$%&& from this location". Yes it could happen
to you. Do you buy fire insurance? Have you ever had a
fire? Do you buy life insurance? Have you ever died?
Well a router is very solid and great insurance and it costs so little
and is so simple to utilize.
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Don't fight it just do it! |
Q. Should I get a "wireless" router and what
does "wireless" really mean?
A. Absolutely
- for the few $$$ difference in price you should have a wireless
router. This allows you to connect a computer anywhere in your home or
even out on the patio/lanai/bohio or ranchero. Most laptop computers are
now equipped with a built in wireless receiver. This will allow you to
connect to the internet or other computers in your home as required.
Again the software that comes with the router will step you through
all the necessary steps to make this happen. If you read the
instructions carefully and don't skip any steps it will work perfectly
almost every time. I say almost cuz we are dealing with computers and
"Murphy" still lives.
Q. I went looking for a "wireless"
router and there is wireless G and wireless N. Which one should
I get.
A. N comes after G. Therefore
N is the newest and most up to date technology available at this time.
For the small difference in price go for the latest when you can.
N gives you better range and speed than G and most new portables /
laptops have N built right into them.
Again if you run into difficulties do not hesitate to call the support
line for Linksys. Yes they appear to be offshore but they are pretty
darn good.
That's enuf for this month.
Bill
Send your questions to
bill@geezeraid.com
PS. Feel free to share this link if you think it
will help somebody.
www.theeyeopener.ca
Yes my stuff is free sort of but you will notice some
advertising and yes I make a buck if you click on an ad and buy
something see "always read the fine print"  |
