FAQ

Why is my wireless signal in my home/office so weak?
Why is my computer running so slow as compared to when I originally purchased it?
How can I get more then one computer to access the internet?
What is Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP)?
What's an IP address?
What is a switch?
What is a router?
What is a firewall?

 

 

Why is my wireless signal in my home/office so weak?
A. This is a common problem. Replace the current antenna with a higher gain antenna something about 8db. The one that comes with the router is usually about 2db.

Why is my computer running so slow as compared to when I originally purchased it?
This could be a combination of many issues; but here is the most common:
- There may be you have too many applications and files on your hard drive and it may be too full.
- Spyware
- Viruses

How can I get more then one computer to access the internet?
You can get a 4 port router that will give you the capabilities of hooking up more then one computer to the internet and this will also provide you with a firewall; which will prevent hackers from accessing your data.

What is Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP)?
VOIP is an acronym for Voice Over IP, or in more common terms phone service over the Internet.
If you have a reasonable quality Internet connection you can get your phone service delivered to you through your Internet connection instead of from your local phone company.
Some people use VOIP in addition to their traditional phone service, since VOIP service providers usually offers lower rates than the traditional phone companies, but sometimes don't offer full 911 service, phone directory listings, 411 service, etc. (More Info)

What's an IP address?
IP (Internet Protocol), is a standard way for computers to communicate. Generally, each computer has its own unique number. When two computers communicate, they use IP addresses to find one another. An IP Address is a set of 4 numbers between 0 and 255, each separated by a period. For example: 192.168.123.254. Even if a computer has a "name" on the network (to make it easier for you to remember), it still uses an IP address to communicate with other machines.
Messages or requests from one computer to another are broadcast, and all of the machines that are connected via an Ethernet cable can "hear" the message. The machine that is the intended recipient of the message responds, and the two machines transmit data to one another.

What is a switch?
Switches are used to connect computers on the same network; they do not provide Internet access. You can still share your Internet connection through one of the computers on your network, however, as your network grows, you will see performance degrade. When one computer has to manage the Internet connection, it slows down network performance. If the main computer crashes, all of the other computers will lose their Internet connection. (You may also be able to plug your switch into your broadband modem, but only if you get multiple IP addresses from your provider. This usually costs more.) For increased performance and functionality, you need a router.

What is a router?
A router is similar to a switch, but it performs a number of useful networking functions:
* It allows you to create a home network (like a switch), but a router actually separates networks allowing you to share your Internet access without being dependent on one computer's connection (unlike a switch).
* You can plug a printer directly into some routers, allowing printer access to any computer on the network.
* It provides built-in firewall capabilities that do not hinder network performance.
* You can share your broadband connection without purchasing additional IP addresses.
You can also get a wireless router. It performs many of the same functions, but allows you to combine a regular network with a wireless network.

What is a firewall?
A firewall protects your network from malicious attacks targeting Broadband users. It prevents people from accessing your information and using your computer without your knowledge.