1. U.S. Small Business Association
http://www.sba.gov
Maintain and strengthen the nation's economy by aiding, counseling, assisting and protecting the interests of small businesses and by helping families and businesses recover from national disasters.
2. SOHO America
http://www.soho.org/
Find Out How SOHO Online can help you manage the challenges of working in a small office/home office environment. SOHO is for SME, small business, home office, small office, business events, conferences, networking, seminars, presentations, keynotes, event planning, and membership.
3. Internet Retailer
http://www.internetretailer.com/
Site complete with Internet Retail news, resources, experts and upcoming events in several areas and industries.
A second important area is marketing and PR. A few good online resources follow:
Logoworks
Quality logos give your business an immediate air of professionalism. Even if your business is new or less established, a customer will often give the benefit of doubt to a company that looks professional. Every business eventually competes with others. A unique and professional logo will help your customers distinguish your products and services and help them remember who you are.
Publicity Hound
Joan Stewart, publicity resource expert for small business and people that need advice with publicity design and background with seminars in U.S.A. available.
Meetup
Expanding your network. There are opportunities now to expand you current local business network to include partnerships in other cities or gain access to similar experts in your field without having to go there.
Google Adwords
Online Marketing. Numerous online marketing programs such as video, radio, banner and one of the best, pay per click. Pay per click has changed the advertising world and so has the fact that more consumers search for product information online and generations have grown up with Internet technology.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Differences In A Home Based Network Marketing Business From A Traditional Business
A home based network marketing business is the perfect business to start if you are looking for a way to make extra money from the comfort of your own home. The beauty of starting a network marketing business and running it at home is all of the savings you will enjoy over a traditional business. Here are a few big differences a network marketing business offers in the way of saving over the brick and mortar business.
1. No outside office space to rent. Work in the comfort of your own home. You don't even need an office. Just a place for your computer and phone. Renting office space is not cheap. And you wont's have to spend time meeting with property managers finding the right location. The right location for your home based business is wherever you want it in your home.
2. No warehouse space. Most network marketing products are ordered and direct shipped from the factory warehouse. In the old days of network marketing businesses people would stock products in their basement or garages. Not anymore. All orders can be direct shipped and you never ever handle the product.
3. No sales people needed. With a network marketing business you get paid on the sales of your downline without actually hiring them as employees. You are paid in residual income to help train them to run their own business. Thanks to the internet and conference calls anyone can do that regardless of their current experience.
4. No office staff needed. All orders can be done via a 1-800 or your company provided website. As more and more people get comfortable ordering online you just refer them to your website to make a sale or recruit them as a distributor.
5.. No special equipment to buy. All you need is a computer and a phone. You don't even need to set up a separate phone line for business. Running a home based business allows you to use what you already have.
A network marketing home based business is going require you to work hard to develop retail customers and a network of distributors doing the same. You make money on your sales and the sales of your group.The beauty of this is called duplication. By helping people set up their own home based network marketing business you are able to accomplish more than if you had to do all of the work yourself or if you had to hire employees.
In conlcusion although there are many more differences between a home based business and a traditional business when you combine your network marketing business with a home based business you have a great way you can make extra money.
1. No outside office space to rent. Work in the comfort of your own home. You don't even need an office. Just a place for your computer and phone. Renting office space is not cheap. And you wont's have to spend time meeting with property managers finding the right location. The right location for your home based business is wherever you want it in your home.
2. No warehouse space. Most network marketing products are ordered and direct shipped from the factory warehouse. In the old days of network marketing businesses people would stock products in their basement or garages. Not anymore. All orders can be direct shipped and you never ever handle the product.
3. No sales people needed. With a network marketing business you get paid on the sales of your downline without actually hiring them as employees. You are paid in residual income to help train them to run their own business. Thanks to the internet and conference calls anyone can do that regardless of their current experience.
4. No office staff needed. All orders can be done via a 1-800 or your company provided website. As more and more people get comfortable ordering online you just refer them to your website to make a sale or recruit them as a distributor.
5.. No special equipment to buy. All you need is a computer and a phone. You don't even need to set up a separate phone line for business. Running a home based business allows you to use what you already have.
A network marketing home based business is going require you to work hard to develop retail customers and a network of distributors doing the same. You make money on your sales and the sales of your group.The beauty of this is called duplication. By helping people set up their own home based network marketing business you are able to accomplish more than if you had to do all of the work yourself or if you had to hire employees.
In conlcusion although there are many more differences between a home based business and a traditional business when you combine your network marketing business with a home based business you have a great way you can make extra money.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
How To Set Up a Wireless Network
How To set up a Wireless Network
This article is aimed at helping you to set up a wireless network in your home. We will assume you already have a broadband connection to a modem which connects directly to your computer.
Equipment Required
1. A Wireless Router
2. A Wireless PCI Card for any desktop PC's
3. A PCMCIA wireless card for any notebook computers you have
Setting Up the Wireless Network
Step 1...Set up the router
It is always best to have one computer on the network hard wired into the router. This is because if the security settings are lost you always have one computer that will allow you access to the router and recover them. To set up the router unplug the modem from its power and turn off the computer. Plug the modem directly into the router with Ethernet cable into the WAN port. Then plug the router directly to your Desktop PC via the LAN port. Plug in the modem and allow it to return to the status ready. Plug the power into the router and turn it on. Turn on the computer and let it boot into windows. Take the setup CD and place it into the Desktop machine and run the setup wizard. Change the administrators default password to one you will know as hackers tend to know the default passwords. Change the SSID of the network (network name) hackers also know the default SSID and can use it to gain access to your network. Refer to the printed guide with your router and set up WEP/WPA encryption to provide security on the network.
IMPORTANT: Write down the key that the router produces you will need this to gain access to your network from other machines.
Step2...Adding other computers to the network
To add a desktop PC unplug the computer and install the PCI card into the machine. Turn the computer on after you have installed the wireless card. Insert the CD and run the setup program to install the drivers for the wireless card. Once this is done restart your computer and wait for windows to load. When windows loads you should see a small icon in the system tray that says wireless network detected. Click on this and view the wireless network available and select the one you have set up on the router. The computer should be able to connect to it, adjust the security settings to match those of the router i.e. the encryption key your router produced should now be entered.
To set up a notebook PCMCIA card refer to the printed guide with your card and install the relevant software from the CD. Turn off the notebook and plug in the card to an available slot on the side of the laptop. Turn on the notebook and the hardware should be detected and then wireless networks should be visible. Select your network and enter the Key provided by your router as you do on a Desktop PC.
Step3...Running Windows XP network setup wizard
To run the wizard click Start > My Network Places on the left you should see a column that says Set Up a Home or Small Office Network. Run the wizard and follow the onscreen instructions. Repeat this on all machines on the network entering the same information each time.
Congratulations you have now successfully set up a wireless network.
There are extra peripherals that you can install such as a wireless adapter for your sound system to stream music off your computer through your television. Setting Up the Wireless Network Step 1...Set up the router
It is always best to have one computer on the network hard wired into the router. This is because if the security settings are lost you always have one computer that will allow you access to the router and recover them. To set up the router unplug the modem from its power and turn off the computer. Plug the modem directly into the router with Ethernet cable into the WAN port. Then plug the router directly to your Desktop PC via the LAN port. Plug in the modem and allow it to return to the status ready. Plug the power into the router and turn it on. Turn on the computer and let it boot into windows. Take the setup CD and place it into the Desktop machine and run the setup wizard. Change the administrators default password to one you will know as hackers tend to know the default passwords. Change the SSID of the network (network name) hackers also know the default SSID and can use it to gain access to your network. Refer to the printed guide with your router and set up WEP/WPA encryption to provide security on the network.
IMPORTANT: Write down the key that the router produces you will need this to gain access to your network from other machines.
Step2...Adding other computers to the network
To add a desktop PC unplug the computer and install the PCI card into the machine. Turn the computer on after you have installed the wireless card. Insert the CD and run the setup program to install the drivers for the wireless card. Once this is done restart your computer and wait for windows to load. When windows loads you should see a small icon in the system tray that says wireless network detected. Click on this and view the wireless network available and select the one you have set up on the router. The computer should be able to connect to it, adjust the security settings to match those of the router i.e. the encryption key your router produced should now be entered.
To set up a notebook PCMCIA card refer to the printed guide with your card and install the relevant software from the CD. Turn off the notebook and plug in the card to an available slot on the side of the laptop. Turn on the notebook and the hardware should be detected and then wireless networks should be visible. Select your network and enter the Key provided by your router as you do on a Desktop PC.
Step3...Running Windows XP network setup wizard
To run the wizard click Start > My Network Places on the left you should see a column that says Set Up a Home or Small Office Network. Run the wizard and follow the onscreen instructions. Repeat this on all machines on the network entering the same information each time.
Congratulations you have now successfully set up a wireless network.
This article is aimed at helping you to set up a wireless network in your home. We will assume you already have a broadband connection to a modem which connects directly to your computer.
Equipment Required
1. A Wireless Router
2. A Wireless PCI Card for any desktop PC's
3. A PCMCIA wireless card for any notebook computers you have
Setting Up the Wireless Network
Step 1...Set up the router
It is always best to have one computer on the network hard wired into the router. This is because if the security settings are lost you always have one computer that will allow you access to the router and recover them. To set up the router unplug the modem from its power and turn off the computer. Plug the modem directly into the router with Ethernet cable into the WAN port. Then plug the router directly to your Desktop PC via the LAN port. Plug in the modem and allow it to return to the status ready. Plug the power into the router and turn it on. Turn on the computer and let it boot into windows. Take the setup CD and place it into the Desktop machine and run the setup wizard. Change the administrators default password to one you will know as hackers tend to know the default passwords. Change the SSID of the network (network name) hackers also know the default SSID and can use it to gain access to your network. Refer to the printed guide with your router and set up WEP/WPA encryption to provide security on the network.
IMPORTANT: Write down the key that the router produces you will need this to gain access to your network from other machines.
Step2...Adding other computers to the network
To add a desktop PC unplug the computer and install the PCI card into the machine. Turn the computer on after you have installed the wireless card. Insert the CD and run the setup program to install the drivers for the wireless card. Once this is done restart your computer and wait for windows to load. When windows loads you should see a small icon in the system tray that says wireless network detected. Click on this and view the wireless network available and select the one you have set up on the router. The computer should be able to connect to it, adjust the security settings to match those of the router i.e. the encryption key your router produced should now be entered.
To set up a notebook PCMCIA card refer to the printed guide with your card and install the relevant software from the CD. Turn off the notebook and plug in the card to an available slot on the side of the laptop. Turn on the notebook and the hardware should be detected and then wireless networks should be visible. Select your network and enter the Key provided by your router as you do on a Desktop PC.
Step3...Running Windows XP network setup wizard
To run the wizard click Start > My Network Places on the left you should see a column that says Set Up a Home or Small Office Network. Run the wizard and follow the onscreen instructions. Repeat this on all machines on the network entering the same information each time.
Congratulations you have now successfully set up a wireless network.
There are extra peripherals that you can install such as a wireless adapter for your sound system to stream music off your computer through your television. Setting Up the Wireless Network Step 1...Set up the router
It is always best to have one computer on the network hard wired into the router. This is because if the security settings are lost you always have one computer that will allow you access to the router and recover them. To set up the router unplug the modem from its power and turn off the computer. Plug the modem directly into the router with Ethernet cable into the WAN port. Then plug the router directly to your Desktop PC via the LAN port. Plug in the modem and allow it to return to the status ready. Plug the power into the router and turn it on. Turn on the computer and let it boot into windows. Take the setup CD and place it into the Desktop machine and run the setup wizard. Change the administrators default password to one you will know as hackers tend to know the default passwords. Change the SSID of the network (network name) hackers also know the default SSID and can use it to gain access to your network. Refer to the printed guide with your router and set up WEP/WPA encryption to provide security on the network.
IMPORTANT: Write down the key that the router produces you will need this to gain access to your network from other machines.
Step2...Adding other computers to the network
To add a desktop PC unplug the computer and install the PCI card into the machine. Turn the computer on after you have installed the wireless card. Insert the CD and run the setup program to install the drivers for the wireless card. Once this is done restart your computer and wait for windows to load. When windows loads you should see a small icon in the system tray that says wireless network detected. Click on this and view the wireless network available and select the one you have set up on the router. The computer should be able to connect to it, adjust the security settings to match those of the router i.e. the encryption key your router produced should now be entered.
To set up a notebook PCMCIA card refer to the printed guide with your card and install the relevant software from the CD. Turn off the notebook and plug in the card to an available slot on the side of the laptop. Turn on the notebook and the hardware should be detected and then wireless networks should be visible. Select your network and enter the Key provided by your router as you do on a Desktop PC.
Step3...Running Windows XP network setup wizard
To run the wizard click Start > My Network Places on the left you should see a column that says Set Up a Home or Small Office Network. Run the wizard and follow the onscreen instructions. Repeat this on all machines on the network entering the same information each time.
Congratulations you have now successfully set up a wireless network.
VPN Remote Access To Your Workplace
One of the biggest selling points to our small business customers is the ability to access their workplace computers and network from home. Who doesn't love the idea of working from home. Why drive to work when you can accomplish a majority of your tasks from your living room. The two common methods of accomplishing this is: VPN (Virtual Private Network) and Terminal Services.
VPN connects you to your office network as if you were physically in your office. There is a little bit of configuration involved. First, at the remote computer (usually the workplace computer) you need to enable incoming VPN connections. For this example we are going to be using Windows XP Professional. Right click "My Network Places" -> Left click "Properties" -> click "Create New Connection" -> select "Setup Advanced Connection" -> select "Accept Incoming Connections" -> click next twice -> select "Allow Virtual Private Connections" -> select a user from that computer that you want to use as the login info (user must have a password) -> click next and make sure "TCP/IP" is highlighted click next and you are done. If your remote computer is behind a router/firewall then you must configure port forwarding to the remote computer. Port forwarding is an article in itself, but basically you must open port 1723 to the remote computer.
Now for your home computer: Right click "My Network Places" -> left click "Properties" -> click "Create New Connection" -> select "Connect To The Network At My Workplace" -> select "Virtual Private Network Connection" -> fill in any name -> for host name or IP you must enter in the public IP address of your office.
VPN connects you to your office network as if you were physically in your office. There is a little bit of configuration involved. First, at the remote computer (usually the workplace computer) you need to enable incoming VPN connections. For this example we are going to be using Windows XP Professional. Right click "My Network Places" -> Left click "Properties" -> click "Create New Connection" -> select "Setup Advanced Connection" -> select "Accept Incoming Connections" -> click next twice -> select "Allow Virtual Private Connections" -> select a user from that computer that you want to use as the login info (user must have a password) -> click next and make sure "TCP/IP" is highlighted click next and you are done. If your remote computer is behind a router/firewall then you must configure port forwarding to the remote computer. Port forwarding is an article in itself, but basically you must open port 1723 to the remote computer.
Now for your home computer: Right click "My Network Places" -> left click "Properties" -> click "Create New Connection" -> select "Connect To The Network At My Workplace" -> select "Virtual Private Network Connection" -> fill in any name -> for host name or IP you must enter in the public IP address of your office.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Sharing an Internet Connection over a Wi-Fi Network
Once you've got your wireless network set up, I've no doubt that one of the first things you'll want to do with it is share an Internet connection -- after all, that's why most home users put in a wireless network to begin with. Well, the good news is that Windows has Internet Connection Sharing built in. The bad news is that setting it up can sometimes be a little less than fun.
The problem is that the Internet Connection Sharing Wizards that come with Windows 98 Second Edition and Windows Me don't work very well, and in some cases, can break your existing Internet Connection. The good news is that it's not that hard to set up, as long as you do it properly.
How Internet Connection Sharing Works
When you set up Internet Connection Sharing, you set up one of your computers as a 'gateway' to the Internet, and then use this gateway to access the Internet with your other computers. Essentially, requests for data from the Internet are being sent out through the gateway, and the responses are being sent back across the network ('routed') back to your computer. The gateway computer is still the only one that's directly connected to the Internet.
If you have trouble visualising what's happening, imagine for a second that the computers are people. Let's call the computer-people Bob, Fred and Alice. They're all in a bar together, but Bob is the only one with money for drinks (we could say he has a 'connection' to the bar). Fred and Alice can ask Bob to buy them a drink, and Bob can bring over the drinks, for them to have as they usually would. At no point, however, can Fred or Alice go and order a drink at the bar.
Setting It Up: The Gateway
Note: this guide assumes that you have already set up your wireless network, but you have not connected it to the Internet yet.
The computer with the modem connected to it is the one you need to set up first -- as the gateway, it's going to be providing Internet access to all your other computers. On this computer, go to the Control Panel, then click Network Connections. From here, you can run the Network Setup Wizard by clicking 'Set up a home or small office network'.
Click next through the wizard until you get to a screen called 'Select a connection method'. On this screen you need to select 'This computer connects directly to the Internet. The other computers on my network connect to the Internet through this computer'. From here on, you should be able to click next again until you get to the finish. Say 'yes' to turn on file and printer sharing when you're prompted.
Your computer is now ready to be a gateway to the Internet.
The Network
The next step is setting up the other computers on your network to make use of the gateway you just created. Run the Network Setup Wizard on each of these computers, but this time through choose 'This computer connects to the Internet through another computer on my network or through a residential gateway'.
If the computer that will now be using a shared Internet connection was using a dial-up connection before, then there are a few things left to do -- you need to change some settings in the web browser Open Internet Explorer, then go to the Options screen (in the Tools menu). Click the Connections tab. You should click 'never dial a connection', and untick three boxes: 'automatically detect settings', 'use automatic configuration script' and 'use a proxy server'.
The Trouble With Internet Connection Sharing
To go back to our bar for a moment, imagine Bob leaves. Oh dear. Looks like Fred and Alice can't get any more drinks, doesn't it? The same thing applies to the computers on your network -- if the gateway computer is switched off, they will lose all their access to the Internet.
That's not the only problem, though. While Internet Connection Sharing works fine for the web and email, it can be more problematic when it comes to doing other things. Downloading files from filesharing networks, for example, or using videoconferencing, requires you to mess around with the gateway computer's settings. After a while, it can get quite frustrating. If you're in this position, you should really try a wireless router -- see our article 'Create Always-On Networks with a Wireless Router'.
The problem is that the Internet Connection Sharing Wizards that come with Windows 98 Second Edition and Windows Me don't work very well, and in some cases, can break your existing Internet Connection. The good news is that it's not that hard to set up, as long as you do it properly.
How Internet Connection Sharing Works
When you set up Internet Connection Sharing, you set up one of your computers as a 'gateway' to the Internet, and then use this gateway to access the Internet with your other computers. Essentially, requests for data from the Internet are being sent out through the gateway, and the responses are being sent back across the network ('routed') back to your computer. The gateway computer is still the only one that's directly connected to the Internet.
If you have trouble visualising what's happening, imagine for a second that the computers are people. Let's call the computer-people Bob, Fred and Alice. They're all in a bar together, but Bob is the only one with money for drinks (we could say he has a 'connection' to the bar). Fred and Alice can ask Bob to buy them a drink, and Bob can bring over the drinks, for them to have as they usually would. At no point, however, can Fred or Alice go and order a drink at the bar.
Setting It Up: The Gateway
Note: this guide assumes that you have already set up your wireless network, but you have not connected it to the Internet yet.
The computer with the modem connected to it is the one you need to set up first -- as the gateway, it's going to be providing Internet access to all your other computers. On this computer, go to the Control Panel, then click Network Connections. From here, you can run the Network Setup Wizard by clicking 'Set up a home or small office network'.
Click next through the wizard until you get to a screen called 'Select a connection method'. On this screen you need to select 'This computer connects directly to the Internet. The other computers on my network connect to the Internet through this computer'. From here on, you should be able to click next again until you get to the finish. Say 'yes' to turn on file and printer sharing when you're prompted.
Your computer is now ready to be a gateway to the Internet.
The Network
The next step is setting up the other computers on your network to make use of the gateway you just created. Run the Network Setup Wizard on each of these computers, but this time through choose 'This computer connects to the Internet through another computer on my network or through a residential gateway'.
If the computer that will now be using a shared Internet connection was using a dial-up connection before, then there are a few things left to do -- you need to change some settings in the web browser Open Internet Explorer, then go to the Options screen (in the Tools menu). Click the Connections tab. You should click 'never dial a connection', and untick three boxes: 'automatically detect settings', 'use automatic configuration script' and 'use a proxy server'.
The Trouble With Internet Connection Sharing
To go back to our bar for a moment, imagine Bob leaves. Oh dear. Looks like Fred and Alice can't get any more drinks, doesn't it? The same thing applies to the computers on your network -- if the gateway computer is switched off, they will lose all their access to the Internet.
That's not the only problem, though. While Internet Connection Sharing works fine for the web and email, it can be more problematic when it comes to doing other things. Downloading files from filesharing networks, for example, or using videoconferencing, requires you to mess around with the gateway computer's settings. After a while, it can get quite frustrating. If you're in this position, you should really try a wireless router -- see our article 'Create Always-On Networks with a Wireless Router'.
Set Up A Wireless Network And Unchain Yourself From Your Desk
You no longer have to go to Starbucks to enjoy wireless Internet connections. That's right, you can enjoy your coffee from the privacy of your home and access the Internet. Wireless Internet has come home as well, and Internet connections can now be shared among family members without stringing wires through the living room. On the negative side, however, setting this up can be quite a chore.
With a wireless network, not only can you share Internet connectivity, but you can share files. You can put a file on a shared drive, and then anyone on any computer in your house can access it.
Additionally, you can share a printer. You can literally press "print" while working on your laptop in the bedroom, and the printer in your office will start spewing out your latest reports.
To start out with, you need a gateway the Internet. Any computer can serve as your gateway. This system must be directly plugged into the Internet in order for other users to be truly wireless. Thus one computer is stationary, you cannot move it.
To connect your wireless systems to the Internet, set up your gateway. Click on the Start menu and scroll up to the Control Panel. Then double click the Network Connections icon. At this point you can run through the series of steps in the Network Set up Wizard. Make sure to select "set up a home or small office network."
Continue moving through the wizard until you reach the "select a connection method" page. You will need to select the option that states that your computer is directly connected to the Internet. Keep moving through the steps until you arrive on the final page with your reward: the finish button.
At this point you only have one computer hooked up to the Internet, and you can't move it around the house. To gain mobility, you will need to go through the same steps with each of your other computers, only this time, you should select the option that states you're your computer is connected to the Internet through a network and not directly connected to the Internet.
Unfortunately this sort of network does have a downside: the wireless connection relies on the gateway. When you turn your gateway off, the rest of your systems drop their Internet connection too. You might also want to consider purchasing a wireless router. Check out our article configure a network that always stays on.
Overall a wireless connection offers the freedom that no other Internet service does. You can even sit outside your home within a reasonable distance and access the Internet. Imagine that: shopping online from your deck. You could work from the kitchen, the bedroom, and even the bathroom. And while no one wants to become a workaholic, some people need the variety of setting to stay productive. So take the necessary steps to get hooked up and go wireless today.
With a wireless network, not only can you share Internet connectivity, but you can share files. You can put a file on a shared drive, and then anyone on any computer in your house can access it.
Additionally, you can share a printer. You can literally press "print" while working on your laptop in the bedroom, and the printer in your office will start spewing out your latest reports.
To start out with, you need a gateway the Internet. Any computer can serve as your gateway. This system must be directly plugged into the Internet in order for other users to be truly wireless. Thus one computer is stationary, you cannot move it.
To connect your wireless systems to the Internet, set up your gateway. Click on the Start menu and scroll up to the Control Panel. Then double click the Network Connections icon. At this point you can run through the series of steps in the Network Set up Wizard. Make sure to select "set up a home or small office network."
Continue moving through the wizard until you reach the "select a connection method" page. You will need to select the option that states that your computer is directly connected to the Internet. Keep moving through the steps until you arrive on the final page with your reward: the finish button.
At this point you only have one computer hooked up to the Internet, and you can't move it around the house. To gain mobility, you will need to go through the same steps with each of your other computers, only this time, you should select the option that states you're your computer is connected to the Internet through a network and not directly connected to the Internet.
Unfortunately this sort of network does have a downside: the wireless connection relies on the gateway. When you turn your gateway off, the rest of your systems drop their Internet connection too. You might also want to consider purchasing a wireless router. Check out our article configure a network that always stays on.
Overall a wireless connection offers the freedom that no other Internet service does. You can even sit outside your home within a reasonable distance and access the Internet. Imagine that: shopping online from your deck. You could work from the kitchen, the bedroom, and even the bathroom. And while no one wants to become a workaholic, some people need the variety of setting to stay productive. So take the necessary steps to get hooked up and go wireless today.
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Setting up a Network -- Wired or Wireless?
To Wire or Not to Wire
Wireless networks are en vogue, but your installation won’t be successful unless you chose the right type of network and set it up properly. Wired networks require that each computer be connected via a wire to a central location, called a switch or hub. This often involves installing cables through walls and ceilings and can present a challenge for anyone.
If the computers in your home or office are all within 500 feet of each other, a wireless network might be for you. A wireless network has no cables. It can connect computers on different floors of a building or even across the street. Aside from the obvious benefit of not having wires, wireless networks are more convenient since the setup, configuration, and reconfiguration can often be done within minutes, without extensive planning.
Wireless networks, however, are not as fast as wired networks. If you play computer games or want to view streaming video or other high-speed multimedia, a wireless network might not have enough capacity. But, if you just want to check e-mail and view web pages, a wireless network is a good choice. To install a wireless network, you need a Wireless Access Point and a wireless network card for each computer. You will need to buy a wireless network card for each desktop computer, although most newer laptops come equipped with one.
Security is not a large concern in a wired network, since someone would have to physically connect to a wired network to break in. In wireless networks, a car parked outside with a laptop could easily connect to your network if you don’t have proper security in place. To prevent this from happening, encrypt your wireless network connections, or set a password to access the network, or do both.
Do It Yourself or Call a Professional?
If you decide to use a wired network, consider whether you will install it yourself or hire a professional. If you have a small number of computers that are all situated very close to one another, you may be able to buy pre-assembled network cables and connect them yourself. If you need to wire multiple floors and lay wire through ceilings and walls, you need a professional installation. If you go this route, it is best to begin with a floor plan of your office or home, determine what your current needs are, and consider how the network design can be adapted to future needs. A professional installer should be familiar with EIA/TIA standards, local wiring and electrical codes, and making custom cables. Network cabling professionals are often judged by the neatness of their work, because sloppy cabling is more apt to deteriorate over time, harder to manage, and poses more of a fire risk.
Having a wireless network or a wired network is not mutually exclusive. Many small offices have a wired network in addition to one or more wireless networks, depending on their needs. Wireless networks are continuing to get faster, more secure, and less expensive. Wired networks will continue to coexist with wireless networks, often in the same homes and offices.
Wireless networks are en vogue, but your installation won’t be successful unless you chose the right type of network and set it up properly. Wired networks require that each computer be connected via a wire to a central location, called a switch or hub. This often involves installing cables through walls and ceilings and can present a challenge for anyone.
If the computers in your home or office are all within 500 feet of each other, a wireless network might be for you. A wireless network has no cables. It can connect computers on different floors of a building or even across the street. Aside from the obvious benefit of not having wires, wireless networks are more convenient since the setup, configuration, and reconfiguration can often be done within minutes, without extensive planning.
Wireless networks, however, are not as fast as wired networks. If you play computer games or want to view streaming video or other high-speed multimedia, a wireless network might not have enough capacity. But, if you just want to check e-mail and view web pages, a wireless network is a good choice. To install a wireless network, you need a Wireless Access Point and a wireless network card for each computer. You will need to buy a wireless network card for each desktop computer, although most newer laptops come equipped with one.
Security is not a large concern in a wired network, since someone would have to physically connect to a wired network to break in. In wireless networks, a car parked outside with a laptop could easily connect to your network if you don’t have proper security in place. To prevent this from happening, encrypt your wireless network connections, or set a password to access the network, or do both.
Do It Yourself or Call a Professional?
If you decide to use a wired network, consider whether you will install it yourself or hire a professional. If you have a small number of computers that are all situated very close to one another, you may be able to buy pre-assembled network cables and connect them yourself. If you need to wire multiple floors and lay wire through ceilings and walls, you need a professional installation. If you go this route, it is best to begin with a floor plan of your office or home, determine what your current needs are, and consider how the network design can be adapted to future needs. A professional installer should be familiar with EIA/TIA standards, local wiring and electrical codes, and making custom cables. Network cabling professionals are often judged by the neatness of their work, because sloppy cabling is more apt to deteriorate over time, harder to manage, and poses more of a fire risk.
Having a wireless network or a wired network is not mutually exclusive. Many small offices have a wired network in addition to one or more wireless networks, depending on their needs. Wireless networks are continuing to get faster, more secure, and less expensive. Wired networks will continue to coexist with wireless networks, often in the same homes and offices.
Wireless Network Problems
As you move your office into the modern age, with more and more electronic devices proving essential to the system, you'll be anxious to get rid of all those messy cables getting in everyone's way. The most common solution to this is to switch to a wireless network. Problems can arise, however, when people expect to be able to treat a wireless network the same way as they treated their old one.
Wireless network problems are now out in the open, a sufficiently common subject in the technical media that providers have stopped pretending it's trouble-free to switch to a wireless network. Problems with device compatibility, information transfer speed and security are all common complaints. It's easy enough to work around most wireless network problems, but only if you know what you're doing. Fortunately, there are an increasing number of online resources dedicated to helping you solve your wireless network problems.
Unique wireless network problems include incompatibility between different pieces of electronic office equipment. These are especially common if you're trying to run devices made by different manufacturers on the same wireless network. Problems arise because these devices use different communication protocols. You can usually work around these wireless network problems by routing communications through other devices, but this may cost you money.
Even when everything is communicating smoothly on your wireless network, problems can arise with the speed of data transfer. To put it simply, you cannot expect data to travel as quickly across a wireless network as they would across a wired one. For most office communications, they'll still travel fast enough, so that you won't notice any real difference with your wireless network. Problems are only likely to crop up if you're trying to transmit big files such as streaming video.
The most notorious wireless network problems are problems with security. Because it is open, anybody can try to hack in to a wireless network. Problems of this sort, however, are only a serious risk if you fail to install appropriate security software such as a good firewall. This is the sort of thing you should be providing for your office network anyway, regardless of specific wireless network problems.
Wireless network problems are now out in the open, a sufficiently common subject in the technical media that providers have stopped pretending it's trouble-free to switch to a wireless network. Problems with device compatibility, information transfer speed and security are all common complaints. It's easy enough to work around most wireless network problems, but only if you know what you're doing. Fortunately, there are an increasing number of online resources dedicated to helping you solve your wireless network problems.
Unique wireless network problems include incompatibility between different pieces of electronic office equipment. These are especially common if you're trying to run devices made by different manufacturers on the same wireless network. Problems arise because these devices use different communication protocols. You can usually work around these wireless network problems by routing communications through other devices, but this may cost you money.
Even when everything is communicating smoothly on your wireless network, problems can arise with the speed of data transfer. To put it simply, you cannot expect data to travel as quickly across a wireless network as they would across a wired one. For most office communications, they'll still travel fast enough, so that you won't notice any real difference with your wireless network. Problems are only likely to crop up if you're trying to transmit big files such as streaming video.
The most notorious wireless network problems are problems with security. Because it is open, anybody can try to hack in to a wireless network. Problems of this sort, however, are only a serious risk if you fail to install appropriate security software such as a good firewall. This is the sort of thing you should be providing for your office network anyway, regardless of specific wireless network problems.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Is Your Wireless Network a Home Security Breach?
Wireless networks for home computers are becoming more and more popular but do you know how to protect your Wi-Fi network?
A recent survey from www.wi-fi.org shows that protecting your wireless network has become one of the top three issues in home security. According to the survey the top three concerns about home security was:
* Locking windows and doors
* Installing a home alarm system
* Securing your wireless network.
More than 40 percent of the survey respondents felt that a protected Wi-Fi network was an important part of creating a safe home.
Is your neighbor using your Wi-Fi network?
Did you know that 17 percent of Americans thinks it's ok to use someone else's network. The wast majority thinks using your neighbor's Wi-Fi is like stealing. They don't like their neighbors borrowing their signal without their knowledge.
Most new laptop computers have access to Wi-Fi networks as a standard feature. Try taking your laptop for a drive in the neighborhood and you'll probably discover that your computer can connect to several networks - especially if you live in the city. Some "Wi-Fi snatchers" even put small graffitti marks on walls indicating where your can find an open network.
Only seven out of 10 respondents in the survey had activated their Wi-Fi network security - that leaves 30% of networks wide open. Securing you network does require a little technical knowledge, but most systems come with an easy step-by-step guide for setting up the network security. When you have secured your network you can really enjoy the freedom of Wi-Fi without worrying about bandwidth theft.
Have you checked if your Wi-Fi network is secure?
Can you take your laptop computer across the street and still access your home network? Does using your network require you to logon to the network? If not your network is probably wide open so everyone in the neighborhood can use your network. Maybe it's time to find the manual to your system and start doing something about your Wi-Fi security before someone starts stealing your bandwidth or worse - gets access to you computer.
A recent survey from www.wi-fi.org shows that protecting your wireless network has become one of the top three issues in home security. According to the survey the top three concerns about home security was:
* Locking windows and doors
* Installing a home alarm system
* Securing your wireless network.
More than 40 percent of the survey respondents felt that a protected Wi-Fi network was an important part of creating a safe home.
Is your neighbor using your Wi-Fi network?
Did you know that 17 percent of Americans thinks it's ok to use someone else's network. The wast majority thinks using your neighbor's Wi-Fi is like stealing. They don't like their neighbors borrowing their signal without their knowledge.
Most new laptop computers have access to Wi-Fi networks as a standard feature. Try taking your laptop for a drive in the neighborhood and you'll probably discover that your computer can connect to several networks - especially if you live in the city. Some "Wi-Fi snatchers" even put small graffitti marks on walls indicating where your can find an open network.
Only seven out of 10 respondents in the survey had activated their Wi-Fi network security - that leaves 30% of networks wide open. Securing you network does require a little technical knowledge, but most systems come with an easy step-by-step guide for setting up the network security. When you have secured your network you can really enjoy the freedom of Wi-Fi without worrying about bandwidth theft.
Have you checked if your Wi-Fi network is secure?
Can you take your laptop computer across the street and still access your home network? Does using your network require you to logon to the network? If not your network is probably wide open so everyone in the neighborhood can use your network. Maybe it's time to find the manual to your system and start doing something about your Wi-Fi security before someone starts stealing your bandwidth or worse - gets access to you computer.
Office Printing Solutions
Every office has different needs when it comes to their printing solutions. Most companies will grow from a home based business into a larger office will require a change in their printing solutions. It doesn't make sense for a business to have several small ink-jet printers running all at the same time each serving as individual employee. Ink-jet printers are notoriously expensive to maintain and can only serve one or two people at a time without causing a huge backlog of print jobs. A larger office should have a singular large format laser-jet printer that will process jobs more quickly and more efficiently than smaller individual printers can. In the long run this will be much better for your business as it will lower many of the costs your business will incur. Converting from individual printers to one central unit will require several things and you should be aware of them before moving forward with this process.
Your office will have to establish a network of some sort for all the machines in your office to print to a single machine. This could mean bringing in a computer expert to establish your network, or simply setting it up yourself. Setting up a network for your office is really quite simple and can be done in any office outfitted for DSL, which most already are. All you will need to do is to route the DSL through one central router and out to the individual machines and setup the central printer either through your router or one of the computer's on the network that can grant access to all the computer's on the network.
Once you have a network in place you should do plenty of research before purchasing the printer you are going to place on your office network. There are plenty of models out on the market from companies like Brother, Hewlett Packard, Epson and Lexmark. You should choose a machine that gives you the options you need and has the print capacity that fits your company.
Your office will have to establish a network of some sort for all the machines in your office to print to a single machine. This could mean bringing in a computer expert to establish your network, or simply setting it up yourself. Setting up a network for your office is really quite simple and can be done in any office outfitted for DSL, which most already are. All you will need to do is to route the DSL through one central router and out to the individual machines and setup the central printer either through your router or one of the computer's on the network that can grant access to all the computer's on the network.
Once you have a network in place you should do plenty of research before purchasing the printer you are going to place on your office network. There are plenty of models out on the market from companies like Brother, Hewlett Packard, Epson and Lexmark. You should choose a machine that gives you the options you need and has the print capacity that fits your company.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Virtual Private Network and Network Connections
* Network
In information technology, a network is a series of points or nodes interconnected by communication paths.
Networks can interconnect with other networks and contain subnetworks.
* Local Area Network (LAN)
A local area network (LAN) is a group of computers and associated devices that share a common communications line or wireless link.
Typically, connected devices share the resources of a single processor or server within a small geographic area (for example, within an office building).
Usually, the server has applications and data storage that are shared in common by multiple computer users.
A local area network may serve as few as two or three users (for example, in a home network) or as many as thousands of users (for example, in an FDDI network). See also: WAN and MAN
* Wide Area Network (WAN)
A wide area network (WAN) is a geographically dispersed telecommunications network.
The term distinguishes a broader telecommunication structure from a local area network (LAN).
A wide area network may be privately owned or rented, but the term usually connotes the inclusion of public (shared user) networks.
An intermediate form of network in terms of geography is a metropolitan area network (MAN).
* Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a network that interconnects users with computer resources in a geographic area or region larger than that covered by even a large local area network (LAN) but smaller than the area covered by a wide area network (WAN).
The term is applied to the interconnection of networks in a city into a single larger network (which may then also offer efficient connection to a wide area network).
It is also used to mean the interconnection of several local area networks by bridging them with backbone lines.
The latter usage is also sometimes referred to as a campus network.
* Network Backbone
A backbone is a larger transmission line that carries data gathered from smaller lines that interconnect with it.
* Nodes
In a network, a node is a connection point, either a redistribution point or an end point for data transmissions.
In general, a node has programmed or engineered capability to recognize and process or forward transmissions to other nodes.
In information technology, a network is a series of points or nodes interconnected by communication paths.
Networks can interconnect with other networks and contain subnetworks.
* Local Area Network (LAN)
A local area network (LAN) is a group of computers and associated devices that share a common communications line or wireless link.
Typically, connected devices share the resources of a single processor or server within a small geographic area (for example, within an office building).
Usually, the server has applications and data storage that are shared in common by multiple computer users.
A local area network may serve as few as two or three users (for example, in a home network) or as many as thousands of users (for example, in an FDDI network). See also: WAN and MAN
* Wide Area Network (WAN)
A wide area network (WAN) is a geographically dispersed telecommunications network.
The term distinguishes a broader telecommunication structure from a local area network (LAN).
A wide area network may be privately owned or rented, but the term usually connotes the inclusion of public (shared user) networks.
An intermediate form of network in terms of geography is a metropolitan area network (MAN).
* Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a network that interconnects users with computer resources in a geographic area or region larger than that covered by even a large local area network (LAN) but smaller than the area covered by a wide area network (WAN).
The term is applied to the interconnection of networks in a city into a single larger network (which may then also offer efficient connection to a wide area network).
It is also used to mean the interconnection of several local area networks by bridging them with backbone lines.
The latter usage is also sometimes referred to as a campus network.
* Network Backbone
A backbone is a larger transmission line that carries data gathered from smaller lines that interconnect with it.
* Nodes
In a network, a node is a connection point, either a redistribution point or an end point for data transmissions.
In general, a node has programmed or engineered capability to recognize and process or forward transmissions to other nodes.
How To Set Up a Wireless Network
How To set up a Wireless Network
This article is aimed at helping you to set up a wireless network in your home. We will assume you already have a broadband connection to a modem which connects directly to your computer.
Equipment Required
1. A Wireless Router
2. A Wireless PCI Card for any desktop PC's
3. A PCMCIA wireless card for any notebook computers you have
Setting Up the Wireless Network
Step 1...Set up the router
It is always best to have one computer on the network hard wired into the router. This is because if the security settings are lost you always have one computer that will allow you access to the router and recover them. To set up the router unplug the modem from its power and turn off the computer. Plug the modem directly into the router with Ethernet cable into the WAN port. Then plug the router directly to your Desktop PC via the LAN port. Plug in the modem and allow it to return to the status ready. Plug the power into the router and turn it on. Turn on the computer and let it boot into windows. Take the setup CD and place it into the Desktop machine and run the setup wizard. Change the administrators default password to one you will know as hackers tend to know the default passwords. Change the SSID of the network (network name) hackers also know the default SSID and can use it to gain access to your network. Refer to the printed guide with your router and set up WEP/WPA encryption to provide security on the network.
IMPORTANT: Write down the key that the router produces you will need this to gain access to your network from other machines.
Step2...Adding other computers to the network
To add a desktop PC unplug the computer and install the PCI card into the machine. Turn the computer on after you have installed the wireless card. Insert the CD and run the setup program to install the drivers for the wireless card. Once this is done restart your computer and wait for windows to load. When windows loads you should see a small icon in the system tray that says wireless network detected. Click on this and view the wireless network available and select the one you have set up on the router. The computer should be able to connect to it, adjust the security settings to match those of the router i.e. the encryption key your router produced should now be entered.
To set up a notebook PCMCIA card refer to the printed guide with your card and install the relevant software from the CD. Turn off the notebook and plug in the card to an available slot on the side of the laptop. Turn on the notebook and the hardware should be detected and then wireless networks should be visible. Select your network and enter the Key provided by your router as you do on a Desktop PC.
Step3...Running Windows XP network setup wizard
To run the wizard click Start > My Network Places on the left you should see a column that says Set Up a Home or Small Office Network. Run the wizard and follow the onscreen instructions. Repeat this on all machines on the network entering the same information each time.
Congratulations you have now successfully set up a wireless network.
There are extra peripherals that you can install such as a wireless adapter for your sound system to stream music off your computer through your television. Setting Up the Wireless Network Step 1...Set up the router
It is always best to have one computer on the network hard wired into the router. This is because if the security settings are lost you always have one computer that will allow you access to the router and recover them. To set up the router unplug the modem from its power and turn off the computer. Plug the modem directly into the router with Ethernet cable into the WAN port. Then plug the router directly to your Desktop PC via the LAN port. Plug in the modem and allow it to return to the status ready. Plug the power into the router and turn it on. Turn on the computer and let it boot into windows. Take the setup CD and place it into the Desktop machine and run the setup wizard. Change the administrators default password to one you will know as hackers tend to know the default passwords. Change the SSID of the network (network name) hackers also know the default SSID and can use it to gain access to your network. Refer to the printed guide with your router and set up WEP/WPA encryption to provide security on the network.
IMPORTANT: Write down the key that the router produces you will need this to gain access to your network from other machines.
Step2...Adding other computers to the network
To add a desktop PC unplug the computer and install the PCI card into the machine. Turn the computer on after you have installed the wireless card. Insert the CD and run the setup program to install the drivers for the wireless card. Once this is done restart your computer and wait for windows to load. When windows loads you should see a small icon in the system tray that says wireless network detected. Click on this and view the wireless network available and select the one you have set up on the router. The computer should be able to connect to it, adjust the security settings to match those of the router i.e. the encryption key your router produced should now be entered.
To set up a notebook PCMCIA card refer to the printed guide with your card and install the relevant software from the CD. Turn off the notebook and plug in the card to an available slot on the side of the laptop. Turn on the notebook and the hardware should be detected and then wireless networks should be visible. Select your network and enter the Key provided by your router as you do on a Desktop PC.
Step3...Running Windows XP network setup wizard
To run the wizard click Start > My Network Places on the left you should see a column that says Set Up a Home or Small Office Network. Run the wizard and follow the onscreen instructions. Repeat this on all machines on the network entering the same information each time.
This article is aimed at helping you to set up a wireless network in your home. We will assume you already have a broadband connection to a modem which connects directly to your computer.
Equipment Required
1. A Wireless Router
2. A Wireless PCI Card for any desktop PC's
3. A PCMCIA wireless card for any notebook computers you have
Setting Up the Wireless Network
Step 1...Set up the router
It is always best to have one computer on the network hard wired into the router. This is because if the security settings are lost you always have one computer that will allow you access to the router and recover them. To set up the router unplug the modem from its power and turn off the computer. Plug the modem directly into the router with Ethernet cable into the WAN port. Then plug the router directly to your Desktop PC via the LAN port. Plug in the modem and allow it to return to the status ready. Plug the power into the router and turn it on. Turn on the computer and let it boot into windows. Take the setup CD and place it into the Desktop machine and run the setup wizard. Change the administrators default password to one you will know as hackers tend to know the default passwords. Change the SSID of the network (network name) hackers also know the default SSID and can use it to gain access to your network. Refer to the printed guide with your router and set up WEP/WPA encryption to provide security on the network.
IMPORTANT: Write down the key that the router produces you will need this to gain access to your network from other machines.
Step2...Adding other computers to the network
To add a desktop PC unplug the computer and install the PCI card into the machine. Turn the computer on after you have installed the wireless card. Insert the CD and run the setup program to install the drivers for the wireless card. Once this is done restart your computer and wait for windows to load. When windows loads you should see a small icon in the system tray that says wireless network detected. Click on this and view the wireless network available and select the one you have set up on the router. The computer should be able to connect to it, adjust the security settings to match those of the router i.e. the encryption key your router produced should now be entered.
To set up a notebook PCMCIA card refer to the printed guide with your card and install the relevant software from the CD. Turn off the notebook and plug in the card to an available slot on the side of the laptop. Turn on the notebook and the hardware should be detected and then wireless networks should be visible. Select your network and enter the Key provided by your router as you do on a Desktop PC.
Step3...Running Windows XP network setup wizard
To run the wizard click Start > My Network Places on the left you should see a column that says Set Up a Home or Small Office Network. Run the wizard and follow the onscreen instructions. Repeat this on all machines on the network entering the same information each time.
Congratulations you have now successfully set up a wireless network.
There are extra peripherals that you can install such as a wireless adapter for your sound system to stream music off your computer through your television. Setting Up the Wireless Network Step 1...Set up the router
It is always best to have one computer on the network hard wired into the router. This is because if the security settings are lost you always have one computer that will allow you access to the router and recover them. To set up the router unplug the modem from its power and turn off the computer. Plug the modem directly into the router with Ethernet cable into the WAN port. Then plug the router directly to your Desktop PC via the LAN port. Plug in the modem and allow it to return to the status ready. Plug the power into the router and turn it on. Turn on the computer and let it boot into windows. Take the setup CD and place it into the Desktop machine and run the setup wizard. Change the administrators default password to one you will know as hackers tend to know the default passwords. Change the SSID of the network (network name) hackers also know the default SSID and can use it to gain access to your network. Refer to the printed guide with your router and set up WEP/WPA encryption to provide security on the network.
IMPORTANT: Write down the key that the router produces you will need this to gain access to your network from other machines.
Step2...Adding other computers to the network
To add a desktop PC unplug the computer and install the PCI card into the machine. Turn the computer on after you have installed the wireless card. Insert the CD and run the setup program to install the drivers for the wireless card. Once this is done restart your computer and wait for windows to load. When windows loads you should see a small icon in the system tray that says wireless network detected. Click on this and view the wireless network available and select the one you have set up on the router. The computer should be able to connect to it, adjust the security settings to match those of the router i.e. the encryption key your router produced should now be entered.
To set up a notebook PCMCIA card refer to the printed guide with your card and install the relevant software from the CD. Turn off the notebook and plug in the card to an available slot on the side of the laptop. Turn on the notebook and the hardware should be detected and then wireless networks should be visible. Select your network and enter the Key provided by your router as you do on a Desktop PC.
Step3...Running Windows XP network setup wizard
To run the wizard click Start > My Network Places on the left you should see a column that says Set Up a Home or Small Office Network. Run the wizard and follow the onscreen instructions. Repeat this on all machines on the network entering the same information each time.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Is Your Wireless Network a Home Security Breach?
Wireless networks for home computers are becoming more and more popular but do you know how to protect your Wi-Fi network?
A recent survey from www.wi-fi.org shows that protecting your wireless network has become one of the top three issues in home security. According to the survey the top three concerns about home security was:
* Locking windows and doors
* Installing a home alarm system
* Securing your wireless network.
More than 40 percent of the survey respondents felt that a protected Wi-Fi network was an important part of creating a safe home.
Is your neighbor using your Wi-Fi network?
Did you know that 17 percent of Americans thinks it's ok to use someone else's network. The wast majority thinks using your neighbor's Wi-Fi is like stealing. They don't like their neighbors borrowing their signal without their knowledge.
Most new laptop computers have access to Wi-Fi networks as a standard feature. Try taking your laptop for a drive in the neighborhood and you'll probably discover that your computer can connect to several networks - especially if you live in the city. Some "Wi-Fi snatchers" even put small graffitti marks on walls indicating where your can find an open network.
Only seven out of 10 respondents in the survey had activated their Wi-Fi network security - that leaves 30% of networks wide open. Securing you network does require a little technical knowledge, but most systems come with an easy step-by-step guide for setting up the network security. When you have secured your network you can really enjoy the freedom of Wi-Fi without worrying about bandwidth theft.
Have you checked if your Wi-Fi network is secure?
Can you take your laptop computer across the street and still access your home network? Does using your network require you to logon to the network? If not your network is probably wide open so everyone in the neighborhood can use your network. Maybe it's time to find the manual to your system and start doing something about your Wi-Fi security before someone starts stealing your bandwidth or worse - gets access to you computer.
A recent survey from www.wi-fi.org shows that protecting your wireless network has become one of the top three issues in home security. According to the survey the top three concerns about home security was:
* Locking windows and doors
* Installing a home alarm system
* Securing your wireless network.
More than 40 percent of the survey respondents felt that a protected Wi-Fi network was an important part of creating a safe home.
Is your neighbor using your Wi-Fi network?
Did you know that 17 percent of Americans thinks it's ok to use someone else's network. The wast majority thinks using your neighbor's Wi-Fi is like stealing. They don't like their neighbors borrowing their signal without their knowledge.
Most new laptop computers have access to Wi-Fi networks as a standard feature. Try taking your laptop for a drive in the neighborhood and you'll probably discover that your computer can connect to several networks - especially if you live in the city. Some "Wi-Fi snatchers" even put small graffitti marks on walls indicating where your can find an open network.
Only seven out of 10 respondents in the survey had activated their Wi-Fi network security - that leaves 30% of networks wide open. Securing you network does require a little technical knowledge, but most systems come with an easy step-by-step guide for setting up the network security. When you have secured your network you can really enjoy the freedom of Wi-Fi without worrying about bandwidth theft.
Have you checked if your Wi-Fi network is secure?
Can you take your laptop computer across the street and still access your home network? Does using your network require you to logon to the network? If not your network is probably wide open so everyone in the neighborhood can use your network. Maybe it's time to find the manual to your system and start doing something about your Wi-Fi security before someone starts stealing your bandwidth or worse - gets access to you computer.
Friday, October 12, 2007
Honeywell Home Security Systems - An Overview
In this article, I'd like to try to help you figure out the size and scope of product solutions offered by Honeywell.
Let me say right up front that I'm not Honeywell rep. I do not make any money buying or selling Honeywell products. I'm just like you -- I'm a homeowner who wants to figure out what sorts of products Honeywell offers; the names that they're sold under and what they do. Once I've done that, I can make an informed decision about the best solution for me and my family.
By now, you probably know that Honeywell is (among other things) a global supplier and distributor of residential and commercial security systems. In addition, Honeywell monitors millions of private homes commercial businesses and government facilities all over the world.
Honeywell's residential security systems are installed through a network of local dealers.These dealers are trained to understand your needs and respond in a way that's appropriate. They'll discuss your lifestyle with you and build a system that meets your needs.
For example, some families have young children. If that describes your family then perhaps you want a system that alerts you when your kids come home from school. Your Honeywell dealer can design a home security system for you that meets that need.
On the other hand if you're business owner with an small office or home office, you might have an area that needs extra protection (expensive office equipment, valuable records, etc.). If that describes your situation, then your Honeywell dealer can discuss with you the installation of a system that includes motion detectors or cameras.
Ademco Home Security Systems: The Relationship To Honeywell
When considering the scope of possibilities, be aware that Honeywell offers a wide range of products marketed under many different labels. You probably are already aware of the Ademco line, but there are quite a few other brands in the Honeywell home security system family.
The Honeywell product family can be divided into broad categories of hardware including (but not limited to):
* Control Panels: Ademco, Apex, Omni, Lynx
* Keypads: Ademco, Apex, Omni
* Expansion Modules: Ademco, Apex, Omni
* DIY Kits: Ademco, Omni, Lynx
* Wireless Accessories: Apex, Street Smart, Life Safety
* Alarm Communications: Optiflex
* Sensors: Dual Tec, V-Plex
* Smoke Detectors: V-Plex
* ...and much more.
Who, Or What, Is AlarmNet?
One last thing that I found interesting: As you might know, most alarm systems communicate with the monitoring company using telephone lines. But for those of you who were concerned that the phone line might be cut during a burglary, Honeywell has a reliable alternative called AlarmNet.
AlarmNet is a radio network run by Honeywell that has extensive coverage in the United States and Canada. It gives you a second layer of protection -- beyond your phone line -- in the event of a home intrusion or other kind of emergency. This means peace of mind for you and your family. And isn't that what a home security system is all about?
Conclusion
Again, in closing: I am not a Honeywell representative, nor do I make any money by recommending their products. It's just that Honeywell offers a complete line of excellent products. When considering a security solution for your family and/or business, you should consider them when making an informed decision.
Let me say right up front that I'm not Honeywell rep. I do not make any money buying or selling Honeywell products. I'm just like you -- I'm a homeowner who wants to figure out what sorts of products Honeywell offers; the names that they're sold under and what they do. Once I've done that, I can make an informed decision about the best solution for me and my family.
By now, you probably know that Honeywell is (among other things) a global supplier and distributor of residential and commercial security systems. In addition, Honeywell monitors millions of private homes commercial businesses and government facilities all over the world.
Honeywell's residential security systems are installed through a network of local dealers.These dealers are trained to understand your needs and respond in a way that's appropriate. They'll discuss your lifestyle with you and build a system that meets your needs.
For example, some families have young children. If that describes your family then perhaps you want a system that alerts you when your kids come home from school. Your Honeywell dealer can design a home security system for you that meets that need.
On the other hand if you're business owner with an small office or home office, you might have an area that needs extra protection (expensive office equipment, valuable records, etc.). If that describes your situation, then your Honeywell dealer can discuss with you the installation of a system that includes motion detectors or cameras.
Ademco Home Security Systems: The Relationship To Honeywell
When considering the scope of possibilities, be aware that Honeywell offers a wide range of products marketed under many different labels. You probably are already aware of the Ademco line, but there are quite a few other brands in the Honeywell home security system family.
The Honeywell product family can be divided into broad categories of hardware including (but not limited to):
* Control Panels: Ademco, Apex, Omni, Lynx
* Keypads: Ademco, Apex, Omni
* Expansion Modules: Ademco, Apex, Omni
* DIY Kits: Ademco, Omni, Lynx
* Wireless Accessories: Apex, Street Smart, Life Safety
* Alarm Communications: Optiflex
* Sensors: Dual Tec, V-Plex
* Smoke Detectors: V-Plex
* ...and much more.
Who, Or What, Is AlarmNet?
One last thing that I found interesting: As you might know, most alarm systems communicate with the monitoring company using telephone lines. But for those of you who were concerned that the phone line might be cut during a burglary, Honeywell has a reliable alternative called AlarmNet.
AlarmNet is a radio network run by Honeywell that has extensive coverage in the United States and Canada. It gives you a second layer of protection -- beyond your phone line -- in the event of a home intrusion or other kind of emergency. This means peace of mind for you and your family. And isn't that what a home security system is all about?
Conclusion
Again, in closing: I am not a Honeywell representative, nor do I make any money by recommending their products. It's just that Honeywell offers a complete line of excellent products. When considering a security solution for your family and/or business, you should consider them when making an informed decision.
The Basics On T1 Line Solutions For Small Business
T1 Lines have been the primary source of mission critical bandwidth for companies of all sizes for nearly 20 years. With so much history, a basic understanding of the T1 line should be common knowledge among business owners who are looking for reliable bandwidth for Internet access, data communications, or multiple telephone lines. However, it was not until the late 1990s that the market for T1 lines became very competitive and prices began falling to more reasonable levels, causing the demand to rise sharply among small and medium sized businesses. Even today most small business owners and managers still do not know how a standard T1 line works or what it is capable of providing.
Each section below includes a description a T1 line solution and an example of what problems you could solve for your business with the solution described. There are 7 basic types of T1's explained, which include Full T1, Fractional, Voice (standard), PRI, Integrated Voice and Data, Voice Over IP(hosted), and Point-to-Point T1's.
Full T1 Line:
"Full T1 Line" is a term typically used to describe a circuit that provides 1.5 megabits per second of high speed Internet access, which is the most common type of T1. A Full T1 can also be used to carry telephone lines and/or VoIP calls, both of which are covered within the "Voice”, “PRI" and Voice Over IP sections here. Nearly all office-based and modern retail businesses require some type of Internet access in order to perform their daily operations, and many have mission critical Internet needs that allow them to continue business operations at all. There are many choices to fulfill this need for Internet access, including Dial-up connections, ISDN, DSL, Cable, Wireless applications, a T1 Line, or something larger like a DS3 or OC-3 (far less common due to high cost).
A T1 Line consists of 24 channels that transmit data at 64Kbps each, therefore giving a Full T1 Line the capacity to transmit 1.54Mbps of data synchronously (upstream and downstream). Using today's standard email applications and common Internet searching, this amount of bandwidth could support anywhere from 1 to approximately 75 users depending on their needs, preferences, and the company's budget. Most commonly Full T1 Lines are used in offices with 5 to 50 employees. A T1 circuit provides the most reliable bandwidth available when leased from a high quality T1 Provider, which is why businesses are willing to pay more for a T1 than for other services like DSL or Cable. In some applications, a T1 can save money for a company who uses a less reliable bandwidth connection. Since multiple services can be combined on a single T1, cost efficient solutions are often available if you know what service to ask for (see "Integrated T1" below) and which providers offer those services in your area.
Internet T1 pricing starts at approximately $400 per month, but can cost more than $1000 per month if the location of the installation requires a long loop to connect to the network of your local phone company to the network of the T1 provider. This is usually only the case in very small towns or rural areas where facilities are less dense. Most metropolitan areas have many choices of T1 providers, at least one of which will usually be closer and cheaper than the rest. Pricing will fluctuate dramatically depending on the Provider and the location of your business, which is why it is sometimes safer and easier to use an experienced Telecom Consultant such as DS3-Bandwidth.com to guide you in finding the best solution. For example some companies that do not require much bandwidth or have a small budget might need to opt for a Fractional T1 Line.
Fractional T1 Line:
A Fractional T1 line typically describes an Internet circuit that uses a "piece" or a "fraction" of a Full T1. Fractional T1's are also used for telephone lines or even integrated T1’s, but less often then for Internet access. A Fractional T1 can be sold in nearly any fraction of a 24 channel, 1.54Mbps circuit. For example, out of the 24 channels in a Full T1 line, 12 channels might be used in a Fractional T1 to provide a 768k connection, which is half of 1.54Mbps. Other Fractional sizes include 1.1Mbps, 512k, 384k, 256, 128k, and even 64k, although the smaller sizes are very uncommon. As T1 Providers have become more competitive, prices on Full T1s have come down so much that Fractional T1s have become less cost effective. For example, a Fractional T1 of 768k carries only half of the bandwidth of a Full T1, but usually saves only 5% to 15% of the price of a Full T1. This doesn't make much sense in applications where only 1 or 2 T1 lines are needed, unless the budget is extremely tight. However, this can add up to significant savings when using hundreds of T1's across a large company's multi-location VPN or frame relay network.
Voice T1:
Voice and PRI T1 lines are extremely common among businesses and call centers with multiple telephone lines and large call volumes. They are far less expensive and more efficient than installing dozens of POTS (plain old telephone service) lines. Each of the 24 channels on a T1 line is versatile, allowing it to be used for either bandwidth or for a single telephone line. So, a pure Voice T1 line will have 24 telephone lines with reliable service, good reception, good long distance rates (depending on the carrier), and a wide selection of calling features. Voice T1 lines use digital or analog transmission, so it is an excellent choice in situations where a company's equipment does not allow for the use of a PRI line, which is always digital.
PRI T1:
A PRI (Primary Rate Interface) line is somewhat different and more popular than a standard Voice T1 because it is true "digital trunking", which allows for even more advanced calling features. A PRI line provides 23 telephone lines per T1, because the 24th channel is used to carry useful data for signaling and other features like special caller ID information called ANI (Automatic Number Identification). Since the transmission is digital, the quality of a telephone connection over a PRI line is unsurpassed, providing crystal clear reception that is noticeable to the user. The use of DID (Digital Inward Dial) numbers, and calling features like hunting and rolling, allow you to use 23 digital telephone lines to provide service to potentially 30 to 40 employees, depending on how often they will need to use their phone. Instead of guessing on the number of DID's to put on a PRI line, it's important to figure out the maximum number of simultaneous calls that could be placed at any given time. Having too few telephone lines causes costs more in a loss of productivity than it would cost to simply add more phone lines to keep your employees busy. This is why it is important to figure out the proper balance of telephone lines vs. DID numbers. The cost of a PRI is also typically lower than other forms of telephone service (except Voice Over IP in some applications), with actual pricing depending on the Provider of the service and your business location. Between the features, price, and quality of a PRI, it is the primary choice for businesses large enough to take advantage of it's multiline functionality and benefits.
Integrated T1 Line:
An Integrated T1 Line is one of the most popular T1 solutions for small businesses because it provides local telephone service, long distance, and bandwidth all on a single connection and a single bill. The consolidation of these services with one company is more convenient and more cost effective than purchasing them from separate providers. Just as a Fractional T1 line only turns on a portion of a T1 Line for Internet access, special equipment allows some of the T1 channels to be allocated for telephone lines, while others are used for data transmission and Internet access. For example, a Full Integrated T1 line could be divided in half using special equipment, providing 12 high quality telephone lines and using the other 12 channels for 768k of bandwidth. Fractional Integrated T1 lines are also available, but most companies have minimum levels such as 4 phone lines and 512k of Internet access, which only uses 12 channels combined. Many offers even include "blocks" of free long distance, usually based on the number of telephone lines being installed. A typical offer might include 6 phone lines(6 channels), 512k (8 channels), and 600 minutes of free LD each month (100 per telephone line). This entire circuit could have a total cost as low as $400 to $500 per month, which is a tremendous "all inclusive" bargain for small businesses. This is a perfect total solution for literally thousands, if not millions, of small companies across the nation. One thing to keep in mind is that not all providers can offer Integrated T1 Lines, so the ones that do typically focus a great deal of their sales efforts on this service.
Voice Over IP (VoIP):
Voice Over IP is considered to be the “next big thing” in the telecommunications industry. It has already begun the powerful growth that has been expected for many years by experts and early adopters. Although VoIP services can and will be used across all types of high bandwidth connections, the business class services are primarily being offered on T1 lines. This is extremely important in the world of bandwidth and telecommunications, because it again validates the T1 line as the most cost efficient delivery method of the most reliable bandwidth. In other words, a company cannot afford to trust a volatile Internet connection like DSL or Cable to carry VOIP because they risk losing 100% of their communication capabilities.
Voice over IP is revolutionizing telecommunications because it is cheaper for the user and the infrastructure requirements are better for the providers. Rather than requiring a telephone line and all of the switching on the back end to complete a call, VoIP uses equipment to break down a telephone call into packets of data, then sends those packets across the internet to be decoded where the receiver answers the call. This dramatically reduces the bandwidth that is necessary to complete a call because it eliminates “dead” times when no one is speaking into the receiver. Since the calls also bypass the normal telephone switching network, they also escape FCC charges (for now). Every major Provider and most small providers are starting to offer residential and business class VoIP services. If you're in the market for a business VoIP solution try the free consulting services of Business-VoIP-Solution.com.
Point to Point T1:
Point to point T1 lines do not provide T1 Internet access or telephone lines, but act as a “transport” for either or both. A point to point T1, often referred to as a "P2P", provides a very secure and reliable connection, usually from a corporate office to any number of satellite offices. Although a P2P does not actually "provide" Internet access or phone lines, corporations use P2P T1s to share these services. For example, a company’s home office in Los Angeles might have hundreds of telephone lines and huge Internet access pipes installed at one location to get the best available rates. This company can use a P2P T1 to transmit any combination of telephone lines, Internet access, and data between offices to share software systems, and provide in-office dialing from locations across the country! The variables are endless because there are no restrictions on how a point to point T1 can be used, assuming you have the right equipment and a source at one end of the P2P. This can be a great way to save money, because a satellite or branch office might have to pay huge prices to have telephone and bandwidth services installed directly, whereas the home office can get better rates because of bulk buying and location. Although it can sometimes be used to save money, a P2P network is usually not very cost efficient compared to other options. Frame Relay and VPN (Virtual Private Network) are other options to consider depending on a company's needs and business applications. The primary advantage of a P2P line is that it is truly private, making it top choice for those demanding a circuit with a dedicated connection to only their business, therefore offering the highest security available.
There is no question that the same type of T1 Line that was being used back in 1984 by the US Government and world leading technology companies like IBM is still the best source of reliable bandwidth for all sizes of companies today. Despite the competition of newer technologies, price reductions on T1’s plus the fact that these circuits are so trustworthy have allowed the number of T1 Lines being used in the United States to continue to grow at a rate of 15% per year, even in recent years. Since there are so many uses for the T1 Line, including the explosion of new technologies like VoIP, these circuits are poised to remain a key ingredient to the success of businesses who rely on Internet, Telecommunications, and Data Connectivity for years to come.
Each section below includes a description a T1 line solution and an example of what problems you could solve for your business with the solution described. There are 7 basic types of T1's explained, which include Full T1, Fractional, Voice (standard), PRI, Integrated Voice and Data, Voice Over IP(hosted), and Point-to-Point T1's.
Full T1 Line:
"Full T1 Line" is a term typically used to describe a circuit that provides 1.5 megabits per second of high speed Internet access, which is the most common type of T1. A Full T1 can also be used to carry telephone lines and/or VoIP calls, both of which are covered within the "Voice”, “PRI" and Voice Over IP sections here. Nearly all office-based and modern retail businesses require some type of Internet access in order to perform their daily operations, and many have mission critical Internet needs that allow them to continue business operations at all. There are many choices to fulfill this need for Internet access, including Dial-up connections, ISDN, DSL, Cable, Wireless applications, a T1 Line, or something larger like a DS3 or OC-3 (far less common due to high cost).
A T1 Line consists of 24 channels that transmit data at 64Kbps each, therefore giving a Full T1 Line the capacity to transmit 1.54Mbps of data synchronously (upstream and downstream). Using today's standard email applications and common Internet searching, this amount of bandwidth could support anywhere from 1 to approximately 75 users depending on their needs, preferences, and the company's budget. Most commonly Full T1 Lines are used in offices with 5 to 50 employees. A T1 circuit provides the most reliable bandwidth available when leased from a high quality T1 Provider, which is why businesses are willing to pay more for a T1 than for other services like DSL or Cable. In some applications, a T1 can save money for a company who uses a less reliable bandwidth connection. Since multiple services can be combined on a single T1, cost efficient solutions are often available if you know what service to ask for (see "Integrated T1" below) and which providers offer those services in your area.
Internet T1 pricing starts at approximately $400 per month, but can cost more than $1000 per month if the location of the installation requires a long loop to connect to the network of your local phone company to the network of the T1 provider. This is usually only the case in very small towns or rural areas where facilities are less dense. Most metropolitan areas have many choices of T1 providers, at least one of which will usually be closer and cheaper than the rest. Pricing will fluctuate dramatically depending on the Provider and the location of your business, which is why it is sometimes safer and easier to use an experienced Telecom Consultant such as DS3-Bandwidth.com to guide you in finding the best solution. For example some companies that do not require much bandwidth or have a small budget might need to opt for a Fractional T1 Line.
Fractional T1 Line:
A Fractional T1 line typically describes an Internet circuit that uses a "piece" or a "fraction" of a Full T1. Fractional T1's are also used for telephone lines or even integrated T1’s, but less often then for Internet access. A Fractional T1 can be sold in nearly any fraction of a 24 channel, 1.54Mbps circuit. For example, out of the 24 channels in a Full T1 line, 12 channels might be used in a Fractional T1 to provide a 768k connection, which is half of 1.54Mbps. Other Fractional sizes include 1.1Mbps, 512k, 384k, 256, 128k, and even 64k, although the smaller sizes are very uncommon. As T1 Providers have become more competitive, prices on Full T1s have come down so much that Fractional T1s have become less cost effective. For example, a Fractional T1 of 768k carries only half of the bandwidth of a Full T1, but usually saves only 5% to 15% of the price of a Full T1. This doesn't make much sense in applications where only 1 or 2 T1 lines are needed, unless the budget is extremely tight. However, this can add up to significant savings when using hundreds of T1's across a large company's multi-location VPN or frame relay network.
Voice T1:
Voice and PRI T1 lines are extremely common among businesses and call centers with multiple telephone lines and large call volumes. They are far less expensive and more efficient than installing dozens of POTS (plain old telephone service) lines. Each of the 24 channels on a T1 line is versatile, allowing it to be used for either bandwidth or for a single telephone line. So, a pure Voice T1 line will have 24 telephone lines with reliable service, good reception, good long distance rates (depending on the carrier), and a wide selection of calling features. Voice T1 lines use digital or analog transmission, so it is an excellent choice in situations where a company's equipment does not allow for the use of a PRI line, which is always digital.
PRI T1:
A PRI (Primary Rate Interface) line is somewhat different and more popular than a standard Voice T1 because it is true "digital trunking", which allows for even more advanced calling features. A PRI line provides 23 telephone lines per T1, because the 24th channel is used to carry useful data for signaling and other features like special caller ID information called ANI (Automatic Number Identification). Since the transmission is digital, the quality of a telephone connection over a PRI line is unsurpassed, providing crystal clear reception that is noticeable to the user. The use of DID (Digital Inward Dial) numbers, and calling features like hunting and rolling, allow you to use 23 digital telephone lines to provide service to potentially 30 to 40 employees, depending on how often they will need to use their phone. Instead of guessing on the number of DID's to put on a PRI line, it's important to figure out the maximum number of simultaneous calls that could be placed at any given time. Having too few telephone lines causes costs more in a loss of productivity than it would cost to simply add more phone lines to keep your employees busy. This is why it is important to figure out the proper balance of telephone lines vs. DID numbers. The cost of a PRI is also typically lower than other forms of telephone service (except Voice Over IP in some applications), with actual pricing depending on the Provider of the service and your business location. Between the features, price, and quality of a PRI, it is the primary choice for businesses large enough to take advantage of it's multiline functionality and benefits.
Integrated T1 Line:
An Integrated T1 Line is one of the most popular T1 solutions for small businesses because it provides local telephone service, long distance, and bandwidth all on a single connection and a single bill. The consolidation of these services with one company is more convenient and more cost effective than purchasing them from separate providers. Just as a Fractional T1 line only turns on a portion of a T1 Line for Internet access, special equipment allows some of the T1 channels to be allocated for telephone lines, while others are used for data transmission and Internet access. For example, a Full Integrated T1 line could be divided in half using special equipment, providing 12 high quality telephone lines and using the other 12 channels for 768k of bandwidth. Fractional Integrated T1 lines are also available, but most companies have minimum levels such as 4 phone lines and 512k of Internet access, which only uses 12 channels combined. Many offers even include "blocks" of free long distance, usually based on the number of telephone lines being installed. A typical offer might include 6 phone lines(6 channels), 512k (8 channels), and 600 minutes of free LD each month (100 per telephone line). This entire circuit could have a total cost as low as $400 to $500 per month, which is a tremendous "all inclusive" bargain for small businesses. This is a perfect total solution for literally thousands, if not millions, of small companies across the nation. One thing to keep in mind is that not all providers can offer Integrated T1 Lines, so the ones that do typically focus a great deal of their sales efforts on this service.
Voice Over IP (VoIP):
Voice Over IP is considered to be the “next big thing” in the telecommunications industry. It has already begun the powerful growth that has been expected for many years by experts and early adopters. Although VoIP services can and will be used across all types of high bandwidth connections, the business class services are primarily being offered on T1 lines. This is extremely important in the world of bandwidth and telecommunications, because it again validates the T1 line as the most cost efficient delivery method of the most reliable bandwidth. In other words, a company cannot afford to trust a volatile Internet connection like DSL or Cable to carry VOIP because they risk losing 100% of their communication capabilities.
Voice over IP is revolutionizing telecommunications because it is cheaper for the user and the infrastructure requirements are better for the providers. Rather than requiring a telephone line and all of the switching on the back end to complete a call, VoIP uses equipment to break down a telephone call into packets of data, then sends those packets across the internet to be decoded where the receiver answers the call. This dramatically reduces the bandwidth that is necessary to complete a call because it eliminates “dead” times when no one is speaking into the receiver. Since the calls also bypass the normal telephone switching network, they also escape FCC charges (for now). Every major Provider and most small providers are starting to offer residential and business class VoIP services. If you're in the market for a business VoIP solution try the free consulting services of Business-VoIP-Solution.com.
Point to Point T1:
Point to point T1 lines do not provide T1 Internet access or telephone lines, but act as a “transport” for either or both. A point to point T1, often referred to as a "P2P", provides a very secure and reliable connection, usually from a corporate office to any number of satellite offices. Although a P2P does not actually "provide" Internet access or phone lines, corporations use P2P T1s to share these services. For example, a company’s home office in Los Angeles might have hundreds of telephone lines and huge Internet access pipes installed at one location to get the best available rates. This company can use a P2P T1 to transmit any combination of telephone lines, Internet access, and data between offices to share software systems, and provide in-office dialing from locations across the country! The variables are endless because there are no restrictions on how a point to point T1 can be used, assuming you have the right equipment and a source at one end of the P2P. This can be a great way to save money, because a satellite or branch office might have to pay huge prices to have telephone and bandwidth services installed directly, whereas the home office can get better rates because of bulk buying and location. Although it can sometimes be used to save money, a P2P network is usually not very cost efficient compared to other options. Frame Relay and VPN (Virtual Private Network) are other options to consider depending on a company's needs and business applications. The primary advantage of a P2P line is that it is truly private, making it top choice for those demanding a circuit with a dedicated connection to only their business, therefore offering the highest security available.
There is no question that the same type of T1 Line that was being used back in 1984 by the US Government and world leading technology companies like IBM is still the best source of reliable bandwidth for all sizes of companies today. Despite the competition of newer technologies, price reductions on T1’s plus the fact that these circuits are so trustworthy have allowed the number of T1 Lines being used in the United States to continue to grow at a rate of 15% per year, even in recent years. Since there are so many uses for the T1 Line, including the explosion of new technologies like VoIP, these circuits are poised to remain a key ingredient to the success of businesses who rely on Internet, Telecommunications, and Data Connectivity for years to come.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
NetManage Bundles High-Performance Internet Business Tools Into Internet Chameleon 18 Applications for Accessing, Integrating and Managing Information
"NetManage was the first company to provide a comprehensive Internet package and the first to customize Internet tools for the business professional. The product's new management and integration features turn the PC into a powerful Internet office. "We are excited that our channel partners are working with us to bring NetManage's latest Internet technology to the street as fast as we release it," said Zvi Alon, President and CEO of NetManage.
Getting Connected
Getting connected to the Internet is easy with the Automatic Internet(TM) application. The application allows users to sign up for a new Internet access account and transparently configures the software for connection. Users can use an existing Internet account or choose from five national Internet access providers including: Advantis (the IBM Internet Connection), AlterNet, CERFNet, Portal Communications and PSI's InterRamp service. The user simply enters their name, address and credit card information to register for a new Internet account. After signing up for a new account, the user simply exits Automatic Internet and then connects directly to their new Internet account. A "Getting Connected" guide lists pricing for Automatic Internet accounts as well as information on how to contact several hundred worldwide providers.
Applications that Mean Business
According to Brent Heslop and David Angell, Co-authors of the Internet Business Companion, Addison-Wesley, "Internet Chameleon provides the most robust suite of integrated applications that truly turns the Internet into a business partner. Internet Chameleon applications are designed for the power Internet user that needs more than a browser to get the job done. Internet Chameleon is the package every small or large business should be using to stay ahead of the competition."
Internet Chameleon 4.5 is designed to integrate information in a manner that makes the Internet useful immediately. This means powerful information organizers, integration between applications, stronger communication tools, and smarter connection management. Included with the software package is a how-to booklet "Exploring the Internet: A Chameleon's Tale" which walks the user through a variety of ways to integrate Internet Chameleon into their business environment.
The ECCO Internet Address book lists over 2,000 Internet sites by subject and is based on the company's award winning ECCO personnel information management product. Users can customize this list by adding additional subject folders, Internet sites or notes. Combined with the integrated calendar and phone book, the application provides the user with greater efficiency in accessing key sites, business associates and potential clients.
Power users needing to have real-time business conversations can now use Inernet Chameleon's new TALK application. Users can carry on text conversations faster than using the telephone. In fact, Talk Supports ISDN speeds up to 128Kbps in addition to regular dial-up accounts, making Internet Chameleon Talk conversations the fastest on the Internet.
To reduce connection expenses users can save Internet information to their local hard drive using the WebSurfer, Gopher, Mail, and NEWTNews applications. Then the data can be reviewed off-line as needed.
Information Integration
Internet Chameleon's ability to integrate 18 applications with a click of a button is possible with the unique NEWTShooter technology. Once an Internet address is highlighted, NEWTShooter automatically launches to the correct viewer and jumps to that address. For example, NEWTShooter can be used in conjunction with the ECCO Internet Address Book to highlight a Web address to launch WebSurfer to that address. NEWTShooter can also be used to send highlighted text into a newly created email message from any application on the desktop. Overall NEWTShooter allows users to establish a seamless flow of information between all Internet applications and commonly used Windows packages.
Getting Connected
Getting connected to the Internet is easy with the Automatic Internet(TM) application. The application allows users to sign up for a new Internet access account and transparently configures the software for connection. Users can use an existing Internet account or choose from five national Internet access providers including: Advantis (the IBM Internet Connection), AlterNet, CERFNet, Portal Communications and PSI's InterRamp service. The user simply enters their name, address and credit card information to register for a new Internet account. After signing up for a new account, the user simply exits Automatic Internet and then connects directly to their new Internet account. A "Getting Connected" guide lists pricing for Automatic Internet accounts as well as information on how to contact several hundred worldwide providers.
Applications that Mean Business
According to Brent Heslop and David Angell, Co-authors of the Internet Business Companion, Addison-Wesley, "Internet Chameleon provides the most robust suite of integrated applications that truly turns the Internet into a business partner. Internet Chameleon applications are designed for the power Internet user that needs more than a browser to get the job done. Internet Chameleon is the package every small or large business should be using to stay ahead of the competition."
Internet Chameleon 4.5 is designed to integrate information in a manner that makes the Internet useful immediately. This means powerful information organizers, integration between applications, stronger communication tools, and smarter connection management. Included with the software package is a how-to booklet "Exploring the Internet: A Chameleon's Tale" which walks the user through a variety of ways to integrate Internet Chameleon into their business environment.
The ECCO Internet Address book lists over 2,000 Internet sites by subject and is based on the company's award winning ECCO personnel information management product. Users can customize this list by adding additional subject folders, Internet sites or notes. Combined with the integrated calendar and phone book, the application provides the user with greater efficiency in accessing key sites, business associates and potential clients.
Power users needing to have real-time business conversations can now use Inernet Chameleon's new TALK application. Users can carry on text conversations faster than using the telephone. In fact, Talk Supports ISDN speeds up to 128Kbps in addition to regular dial-up accounts, making Internet Chameleon Talk conversations the fastest on the Internet.
To reduce connection expenses users can save Internet information to their local hard drive using the WebSurfer, Gopher, Mail, and NEWTNews applications. Then the data can be reviewed off-line as needed.
Information Integration
Internet Chameleon's ability to integrate 18 applications with a click of a button is possible with the unique NEWTShooter technology. Once an Internet address is highlighted, NEWTShooter automatically launches to the correct viewer and jumps to that address. For example, NEWTShooter can be used in conjunction with the ECCO Internet Address Book to highlight a Web address to launch WebSurfer to that address. NEWTShooter can also be used to send highlighted text into a newly created email message from any application on the desktop. Overall NEWTShooter allows users to establish a seamless flow of information between all Internet applications and commonly used Windows packages.
Monday, October 08, 2007
America Online and E-Stamp to Offer Breakthrough Online Postage Services
E-Stamp Internet Postage offers consumers and small businesses the value and convenience of securely purchasing postage online and printing "digital stamps" anytime on envelopes, labels or onto a document using their personal computer and standard printer.
Here's how it works: Once E-Stamp Internet Postage has been installed, AOL members or other Internet users can buy and print postage anytime from the Web or directly from leading desktop software applications, such as Microsoft Word.
The E-Stamp Internet Postage software automatically verifies the address and prints the correct postage onto an envelope or directly onto a document, simultaneously deducting the postage amount from the customer's account.
E-Stamp has been approved by the U.S. Postal Service to provide consumers and small businesses with its online postage services in limited test markets. E-Stamp expects to have national approval in early 1999 and at that time will make the service available nationwide.
E-Stamp will be a partner in AOL's new Postage Services Center, scheduled to launch in early 1999. As part of the agreement, E- Stamp will extend special, exclusive offers and promotions available only to AOL members.
The E-Stamp Internet Postage service will also be available to CompuServe members and visitors to AOL.COM and Digital City through new Postage Centers soon to be available on each brand.
These Postage Centers will feature direct links to E-Stamp's Website, e-stamp.com(TM), where members and Web-based consumers can purchase postage using a major credit card, transferring funds electronically or pre-paying by check, the value of which will be stored in the customer's account.
Barry Schuler, President of AOL Interactive Services, said "E- Stamp's easy-to-use services are a great match with our goal of offering more convenient ways to handle the things that are important in our members' everyday lives. We believe E-Stamp's services will be very appealing to our members and Web-based users -- saving them trips to the post office."
"We think there's a great market for this service on AOL," continued Schuler. "30% of the 2.6 million small businesses online in the U.S. are on AOL(a). That market share, on top of the hundreds of thousands of business-minded consumers who rely on the CompuServe service, provides our new online Postage Services Centers and E-Stamp an audience that we think will be very receptive to time-saving services like this."
Sunir Kapoor, president and CEO of E-Stamp Corporation, said "AOL and CompuServe members and Web-based users know that AOL brands offer safe and secure communities where consumers have become increasingly comfortable conducting electronic commerce. Those trusted brands are the perfect place for people to try and use E-Stamp Internet Postage and eliminate the hassle of going to the post office."
Within AOL, the new Postage Services Center will be available through the popular WorkPlace Channel. Designed for people seeking to advance in their careers, the AOL WorkPlace Channel has emerged as a leading professional and career site in cyberspace.
The WorkPlace Channel features Professions areas, where professionals can meet clients, suppliers, and partners in more than 80 industries; Business Research where members can quickly gather data on companies, people, and industry trends; and Classifieds, offering one of the largest consolidations of job and business opportunities online.
About E-Stamp
E-Stamp Corporation is committed to transforming the way people purchase and use postage by making online postal services convenient and hassle-free. E-Stamp is the first company to develop and market a secure Internet-based software solution that enables customers to generate online postage from their existing PCs and printers.
E-Stamp Internet Postage is an online service for small businesses that want an easy and convenient way to buy and use postage. Unlike stamps and meters, E-Stamp Internet Postage allows people to buy and print postage anytime directly from the Web or leading desktop software applications such as Microsoft Word.
Here's how it works: Once E-Stamp Internet Postage has been installed, AOL members or other Internet users can buy and print postage anytime from the Web or directly from leading desktop software applications, such as Microsoft Word.
The E-Stamp Internet Postage software automatically verifies the address and prints the correct postage onto an envelope or directly onto a document, simultaneously deducting the postage amount from the customer's account.
E-Stamp has been approved by the U.S. Postal Service to provide consumers and small businesses with its online postage services in limited test markets. E-Stamp expects to have national approval in early 1999 and at that time will make the service available nationwide.
E-Stamp will be a partner in AOL's new Postage Services Center, scheduled to launch in early 1999. As part of the agreement, E- Stamp will extend special, exclusive offers and promotions available only to AOL members.
The E-Stamp Internet Postage service will also be available to CompuServe members and visitors to AOL.COM and Digital City through new Postage Centers soon to be available on each brand.
These Postage Centers will feature direct links to E-Stamp's Website, e-stamp.com(TM), where members and Web-based consumers can purchase postage using a major credit card, transferring funds electronically or pre-paying by check, the value of which will be stored in the customer's account.
Barry Schuler, President of AOL Interactive Services, said "E- Stamp's easy-to-use services are a great match with our goal of offering more convenient ways to handle the things that are important in our members' everyday lives. We believe E-Stamp's services will be very appealing to our members and Web-based users -- saving them trips to the post office."
"We think there's a great market for this service on AOL," continued Schuler. "30% of the 2.6 million small businesses online in the U.S. are on AOL(a). That market share, on top of the hundreds of thousands of business-minded consumers who rely on the CompuServe service, provides our new online Postage Services Centers and E-Stamp an audience that we think will be very receptive to time-saving services like this."
Sunir Kapoor, president and CEO of E-Stamp Corporation, said "AOL and CompuServe members and Web-based users know that AOL brands offer safe and secure communities where consumers have become increasingly comfortable conducting electronic commerce. Those trusted brands are the perfect place for people to try and use E-Stamp Internet Postage and eliminate the hassle of going to the post office."
Within AOL, the new Postage Services Center will be available through the popular WorkPlace Channel. Designed for people seeking to advance in their careers, the AOL WorkPlace Channel has emerged as a leading professional and career site in cyberspace.
The WorkPlace Channel features Professions areas, where professionals can meet clients, suppliers, and partners in more than 80 industries; Business Research where members can quickly gather data on companies, people, and industry trends; and Classifieds, offering one of the largest consolidations of job and business opportunities online.
About E-Stamp
E-Stamp Corporation is committed to transforming the way people purchase and use postage by making online postal services convenient and hassle-free. E-Stamp is the first company to develop and market a secure Internet-based software solution that enables customers to generate online postage from their existing PCs and printers.
E-Stamp Internet Postage is an online service for small businesses that want an easy and convenient way to buy and use postage. Unlike stamps and meters, E-Stamp Internet Postage allows people to buy and print postage anytime directly from the Web or leading desktop software applications such as Microsoft Word.
America Online and Stamps.com Announce Distribution and Marketing Agreement for Innovative Postage Service Across AOL Brands
As part of the agreement, AOL members and Web-based visitors will receive exclusive Member Perks packages, including free postage and postage supplies.
Under the agreement, Stamps.com, formerly known as StampMaster, Inc., will offer AOL and CompuServe members, as well as visitors to AOL.COM and Digital City, free, highly secure postage software to enable AOL's millions of members and Web-based visitors to print a new form of postage directly onto envelopes, labels and business documents using ordinary laser or inkjet printers.
More cost-effective and convenient than stamps or traditional postage meters, Stamps.com's Internet Postage service will give small business, home and corporate users the ability to generate professional- looking first class, priority and express mail twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.
Stamps.com will be prominently featured in the online Postage Services Center anticipated to launch early next year, and will also be featured in the Software Download area of the AOL Computing Channel.
As part of the agreement, Stamps.com will sponsor an online educational area on AOL to inform interested AOL members and users about Internet Postage and U.S. Postal Service rules regarding its use. As one part of the distribution agreement, Stamps.com installation CDs will also be bundled and mailed, free of charge, with purchases made by AOL members in the AOL Store.
Stamps.com is currently approved by the U.S. Postal Service for Beta and market testing, and expects approval from the USPS for a national rollout in the first half of 1999. Currently, Stamps.com provides the only downloadable Internet Postage solution approved by the USPS for market testing, and does not require installation of a hardware device on each PC to achieve the acceptable level of security.
"Stamps.com provides a convenient and valuable alternative to traditional postage," said Bob Pittman, AOL's President and COO. "We think Stamps.com will be a terrific resource for our business- oriented members and visitors."
"We're excited to be able to offer some unique programs for AOL users," said John M. Payne, Stamps.com President and CEO. "Because our Postage Server(TM) architecture requires no hardware on the user's PC, we can provide a high value Internet Postage package at very low costs to AOL members and visitors."
About the U.S.P.S. Information Based Indicia Program
The Information Based Indicia Program (IBIP) is a regulated, multi-vendor program operated by the US Postal Service. All IBIP product offerings and distribution channels require submission and approval under the IBI Program, which operates within the USPS office of Metering Technology Management to assure the highest levels of security and operational integrity for all IBI systems.
Under the agreement, Stamps.com, formerly known as StampMaster, Inc., will offer AOL and CompuServe members, as well as visitors to AOL.COM and Digital City, free, highly secure postage software to enable AOL's millions of members and Web-based visitors to print a new form of postage directly onto envelopes, labels and business documents using ordinary laser or inkjet printers.
More cost-effective and convenient than stamps or traditional postage meters, Stamps.com's Internet Postage service will give small business, home and corporate users the ability to generate professional- looking first class, priority and express mail twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.
Stamps.com will be prominently featured in the online Postage Services Center anticipated to launch early next year, and will also be featured in the Software Download area of the AOL Computing Channel.
As part of the agreement, Stamps.com will sponsor an online educational area on AOL to inform interested AOL members and users about Internet Postage and U.S. Postal Service rules regarding its use. As one part of the distribution agreement, Stamps.com installation CDs will also be bundled and mailed, free of charge, with purchases made by AOL members in the AOL Store.
Stamps.com is currently approved by the U.S. Postal Service for Beta and market testing, and expects approval from the USPS for a national rollout in the first half of 1999. Currently, Stamps.com provides the only downloadable Internet Postage solution approved by the USPS for market testing, and does not require installation of a hardware device on each PC to achieve the acceptable level of security.
"Stamps.com provides a convenient and valuable alternative to traditional postage," said Bob Pittman, AOL's President and COO. "We think Stamps.com will be a terrific resource for our business- oriented members and visitors."
"We're excited to be able to offer some unique programs for AOL users," said John M. Payne, Stamps.com President and CEO. "Because our Postage Server(TM) architecture requires no hardware on the user's PC, we can provide a high value Internet Postage package at very low costs to AOL members and visitors."
About the U.S.P.S. Information Based Indicia Program
The Information Based Indicia Program (IBIP) is a regulated, multi-vendor program operated by the US Postal Service. All IBIP product offerings and distribution channels require submission and approval under the IBI Program, which operates within the USPS office of Metering Technology Management to assure the highest levels of security and operational integrity for all IBI systems.
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Office Depot Caters to Small Business Owners with Free in-Store Marketing Strategies Seminars
BOSTON -- Company Partners with H-P and Marketing Expert Nancy Michaels to Launch "Ten Steps to Growing Your Business Without Busting Your Budget" Tour in MA
Office Depot (NYSE:ODP) is showing small business owners that the office supply company not only carries the products businesses need in order to succeed, but it can offer them essential knowledge and tips as well. One of the world's leading resellers of office products and services, Office Depot is pairing up with author, small business columnist and marketing expert Nancy Michaels to headline a series of free, small business-focused seminars at Office Depot stores in the Boston area.
The seminars, sponsored by Hewlett-Packard and titled, "Ten Steps to Growing Your Business Without Busting Your Budget: The Proven How-To Guide for Small Business," will tour four Office Depot Massachusetts locations, including N. Attleboro, Peabody, Framingham and Woburn.
The specific date, time and location of each event is as follows:
--Tuesday, November 30, 6:00 to 7:30 PM -- 1190 South Washington Street, N. Attleboro, MA 02761, 508-695-1088
--Wednesday, December 1, 6:00 to 7:30 PM -- 210 Andover Street, Peabody, MA 01960, 978-532-0021
--Tuesday, December 7, 6:00 to 7:30 PM -- 1 Worcester Road, Framingham, MA 01701, 508-620-5570
--Wednesday, December 8, 6:00 to 7:30 PM -- 299 Mishawum Road, Woburn, MA 01801, 781-933-3946
Customers interested in attending a seminar should contact their local store to register for the event.
"Offering marketing strategies and tips to help our customers run their businesses better is an important part of our goal to ensure that they are successful," said Dick Levesque, District 44 Manager.
Michaels, President of marketing company Impression Impact and producer of Office Depot's Web Cafe series, will spend each of the 90-minute in-store presentations focusing on Office Depot's small business customer.
Some of the topics covered will include:
--Develop Your Major Selling Advantage (MSA)
--Create Memorable Marketing Materials (No more brochures, please!)
--Perfect Your Sales Pitch - Every Time
--Develop an Effective and Professional Web Site
--Utilize Creative, Off the Wall Marketing Techniques that Drive Business
H-P representatives will be present at all four events to provide hands on demonstrations for those products relevant to Michaels' discussion topics.
Michaels recommends following 10 specific steps to help grow your business without busting your budget. The list, dubbed, "A Proven How-To Guide for Your Small Business" can be found at: http://mediarelations.officedepot.cc/marketingstrategies/10Steps.pdf.
About Office Depot
With annual sales of more than $12 billion, no one sells more office supplies to more customers in more countries than Office Depot. Founded in 1986 and headquartered in Delray Beach, Fla., the company conducts business in 23 countries and employs nearly 50,000 people worldwide.
Office Depot is a leader in every distribution channel - from retail stores and contract delivery to catalogs and e-commerce. The company is the world's number three online retailer - on track to generate $3B in sales for FY'04. In North America, Office Depot has 923 retail stores in addition to a national business-to-business delivery network supported by 22 delivery centers, more than 60 local sales offices and 13 regional call centers.
Nancy Michaels is the author of five books on marketing for small businesses, including Perfecting Your Pitch (Career Press 2005), Off The Wall Marketing Ideas (Adams Media 2000), How To Be A Big Fish In Any Pond, Media Madness, and A to Z to Visibility. She has spoken in 42 states to more than 30,000 entrepreneurs on behalf of such clients as Office Depot, Xerox, JP Morgan Chase, among many others. Michaels is the first recipient to win the Tom Peters WOW! Project Personified Award (2002) that hails individuals who take on WOW! Projects. She is also the Small Business Editor for US News & World Report and has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Home Office Computing, Success, among numerous small business publications.
Office Depot (NYSE:ODP) is showing small business owners that the office supply company not only carries the products businesses need in order to succeed, but it can offer them essential knowledge and tips as well. One of the world's leading resellers of office products and services, Office Depot is pairing up with author, small business columnist and marketing expert Nancy Michaels to headline a series of free, small business-focused seminars at Office Depot stores in the Boston area.
The seminars, sponsored by Hewlett-Packard and titled, "Ten Steps to Growing Your Business Without Busting Your Budget: The Proven How-To Guide for Small Business," will tour four Office Depot Massachusetts locations, including N. Attleboro, Peabody, Framingham and Woburn.
The specific date, time and location of each event is as follows:
--Tuesday, November 30, 6:00 to 7:30 PM -- 1190 South Washington Street, N. Attleboro, MA 02761, 508-695-1088
--Wednesday, December 1, 6:00 to 7:30 PM -- 210 Andover Street, Peabody, MA 01960, 978-532-0021
--Tuesday, December 7, 6:00 to 7:30 PM -- 1 Worcester Road, Framingham, MA 01701, 508-620-5570
--Wednesday, December 8, 6:00 to 7:30 PM -- 299 Mishawum Road, Woburn, MA 01801, 781-933-3946
Customers interested in attending a seminar should contact their local store to register for the event.
"Offering marketing strategies and tips to help our customers run their businesses better is an important part of our goal to ensure that they are successful," said Dick Levesque, District 44 Manager.
Michaels, President of marketing company Impression Impact and producer of Office Depot's Web Cafe series, will spend each of the 90-minute in-store presentations focusing on Office Depot's small business customer.
Some of the topics covered will include:
--Develop Your Major Selling Advantage (MSA)
--Create Memorable Marketing Materials (No more brochures, please!)
--Perfect Your Sales Pitch - Every Time
--Develop an Effective and Professional Web Site
--Utilize Creative, Off the Wall Marketing Techniques that Drive Business
H-P representatives will be present at all four events to provide hands on demonstrations for those products relevant to Michaels' discussion topics.
Michaels recommends following 10 specific steps to help grow your business without busting your budget. The list, dubbed, "A Proven How-To Guide for Your Small Business" can be found at: http://mediarelations.officedepot.cc/marketingstrategies/10Steps.pdf.
About Office Depot
With annual sales of more than $12 billion, no one sells more office supplies to more customers in more countries than Office Depot. Founded in 1986 and headquartered in Delray Beach, Fla., the company conducts business in 23 countries and employs nearly 50,000 people worldwide.
Office Depot is a leader in every distribution channel - from retail stores and contract delivery to catalogs and e-commerce. The company is the world's number three online retailer - on track to generate $3B in sales for FY'04. In North America, Office Depot has 923 retail stores in addition to a national business-to-business delivery network supported by 22 delivery centers, more than 60 local sales offices and 13 regional call centers.
Nancy Michaels is the author of five books on marketing for small businesses, including Perfecting Your Pitch (Career Press 2005), Off The Wall Marketing Ideas (Adams Media 2000), How To Be A Big Fish In Any Pond, Media Madness, and A to Z to Visibility. She has spoken in 42 states to more than 30,000 entrepreneurs on behalf of such clients as Office Depot, Xerox, JP Morgan Chase, among many others. Michaels is the first recipient to win the Tom Peters WOW! Project Personified Award (2002) that hails individuals who take on WOW! Projects. She is also the Small Business Editor for US News & World Report and has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Home Office Computing, Success, among numerous small business publications.
The latest tools for the job - personal computers and peripherals for small businesses - includes a glossary of computer terms
As with most entrepreneurs, the success of Nina Renaud and Bill Bryan depends in part on their ability to perform a wide variety of business tasks. On any given day, their year-old, home-based business may require Renaud and Bryan to carry out the duties usually performed by executives, salespeople, accountants, or shipping clerks.
No wonder the husband and-wife entrepreneurs expect versatility and reliability from the computer and related equipment at their Danville, Calif., firm, Corporate Golf. The firm provides custom-imprinted golf apparel and equipment and golf-related services to corporate customers in the San Francisco area.
In fact, Renaud says, technology has become indispensable at the company. "It's almost impossible to run a business without a computer," she says. "How would you do that"
Almost immediately upon founding the company, Renaud and Bryan purchased an IBM-compatible personal computer for accounting and correspondence with customers, suppliers, and vendors. But even with the PC, they struggled to manage the information going into and out of their office.
Part of the problem was that their phone line was often tied up, making it difficult for customers and suppliers to get in touch with them. Moreover, their fax machine was relegated to the same phone line as the answering machine. Incoming callers who wished to send a fax had to listen to an instructional message and press the start button on their fax machines at the proper time; callers who wished to leave voice mail had to wait through an inordinately long message.
This situation was inconvenient and irritating to customers and suppliers, and it conveyed the impression that Corporate Golf was a shoestring operation.
Renaud and Bryan also were having trouble keeping track of the information that made it to the office. Lacking a copier, they couldn't make copies of purchase orders, bills, and other important documents. This past spring, Renaud and Bryan found a technological solution to their organizational woes in a desktop device called the WorkCenter 250. This versatile product, from Xerox Corp., includes document printing, faxing, copying, and scanning capabilities in one small machine. The combination of the couple's computer and the aptly name WorkCenter quickly became the nerve center of Corporate Golf's operation. Renaud says she is now better able to produce and manage documents, and that the WorkCenter's fax capability makes it easier to do business with suppliers in different parts of the country - and in different time zone - because faxes can be sent as well as received automatically any time of the day or night.
And the integration of the answering machine and the fax, says Renaud, "makes us sound more professional to people calling in. I don't think most of our clients realize that we're [still working out of our house."
As the experience of Renaud and Bryan illustrates, one of the most important considerations for entrepreneurs is not how fast and how powerful computer technology has become but how technology can make them more professional and productive.
Today's computers are advertised as being "multitasking," which simply means that the PCs are powerful enough to run several software programs at once. But small-business owners expect more: They want the computers to include greater capabilities such as fax, data, and voice communications; multimedia; scanning; and printing functions. And they are unwilling to spend much more than they had been spending on computers to get this versatility.
Computer manufacturers are trying to meet small-business and home-office demands with full-featured yet reasonably priced computers. This special report is designed to help you make sense of today's wide variety of these exceptional machines and peripheral equipment. The sections that follow highlight:
* Desktop systems, the workhorses of small offices.
* Portable systems, including notebooks, subnotebooks, and personal digital assistants, all of which are especially hot this year.
* Imaging devices, including printers and scanners.
* Finishing-touches hardware, including color monitors, keyboards and mice, and CD-ROM drives.
Desktop Computers
State of-the-art desktop computers, some of which feature the blazing new 200Mhz Pentium processor by Intel Corp., can ably perform business tasks ranging from crunching numbers in a spreadsheet to sending a fax, answering the telephone, or downloading information from the Internet. Each of these new desktop systems is loaded with features that make it highly useful, well-connected, and trouble-free: Apple Power Macintosh 8500/150, Apple Computer Inc., 1-800-538-9696: Don't be misled by the fact that Macs now account for less than 10 percent of desktop-computer sales. These computers are technically advanced and provide outstanding performance, especially for those running graphics-processing and other multimedia software. The new Power Macintosh 8500/150, for example, includes a 4X CD-ROM drive, sound integrated on the mother-board, and extraordinary video capabilities in the form of a port that can connect to a television, videocassette recorder, or other source for importing or exporting videos.
No wonder the husband and-wife entrepreneurs expect versatility and reliability from the computer and related equipment at their Danville, Calif., firm, Corporate Golf. The firm provides custom-imprinted golf apparel and equipment and golf-related services to corporate customers in the San Francisco area.
In fact, Renaud says, technology has become indispensable at the company. "It's almost impossible to run a business without a computer," she says. "How would you do that"
Almost immediately upon founding the company, Renaud and Bryan purchased an IBM-compatible personal computer for accounting and correspondence with customers, suppliers, and vendors. But even with the PC, they struggled to manage the information going into and out of their office.
Part of the problem was that their phone line was often tied up, making it difficult for customers and suppliers to get in touch with them. Moreover, their fax machine was relegated to the same phone line as the answering machine. Incoming callers who wished to send a fax had to listen to an instructional message and press the start button on their fax machines at the proper time; callers who wished to leave voice mail had to wait through an inordinately long message.
This situation was inconvenient and irritating to customers and suppliers, and it conveyed the impression that Corporate Golf was a shoestring operation.
Renaud and Bryan also were having trouble keeping track of the information that made it to the office. Lacking a copier, they couldn't make copies of purchase orders, bills, and other important documents. This past spring, Renaud and Bryan found a technological solution to their organizational woes in a desktop device called the WorkCenter 250. This versatile product, from Xerox Corp., includes document printing, faxing, copying, and scanning capabilities in one small machine. The combination of the couple's computer and the aptly name WorkCenter quickly became the nerve center of Corporate Golf's operation. Renaud says she is now better able to produce and manage documents, and that the WorkCenter's fax capability makes it easier to do business with suppliers in different parts of the country - and in different time zone - because faxes can be sent as well as received automatically any time of the day or night.
And the integration of the answering machine and the fax, says Renaud, "makes us sound more professional to people calling in. I don't think most of our clients realize that we're [still working out of our house."
As the experience of Renaud and Bryan illustrates, one of the most important considerations for entrepreneurs is not how fast and how powerful computer technology has become but how technology can make them more professional and productive.
Today's computers are advertised as being "multitasking," which simply means that the PCs are powerful enough to run several software programs at once. But small-business owners expect more: They want the computers to include greater capabilities such as fax, data, and voice communications; multimedia; scanning; and printing functions. And they are unwilling to spend much more than they had been spending on computers to get this versatility.
Computer manufacturers are trying to meet small-business and home-office demands with full-featured yet reasonably priced computers. This special report is designed to help you make sense of today's wide variety of these exceptional machines and peripheral equipment. The sections that follow highlight:
* Desktop systems, the workhorses of small offices.
* Portable systems, including notebooks, subnotebooks, and personal digital assistants, all of which are especially hot this year.
* Imaging devices, including printers and scanners.
* Finishing-touches hardware, including color monitors, keyboards and mice, and CD-ROM drives.
Desktop Computers
State of-the-art desktop computers, some of which feature the blazing new 200Mhz Pentium processor by Intel Corp., can ably perform business tasks ranging from crunching numbers in a spreadsheet to sending a fax, answering the telephone, or downloading information from the Internet. Each of these new desktop systems is loaded with features that make it highly useful, well-connected, and trouble-free: Apple Power Macintosh 8500/150, Apple Computer Inc., 1-800-538-9696: Don't be misled by the fact that Macs now account for less than 10 percent of desktop-computer sales. These computers are technically advanced and provide outstanding performance, especially for those running graphics-processing and other multimedia software. The new Power Macintosh 8500/150, for example, includes a 4X CD-ROM drive, sound integrated on the mother-board, and extraordinary video capabilities in the form of a port that can connect to a television, videocassette recorder, or other source for importing or exporting videos.
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