Overview
Everything you need to know to set up a home network
Is a home network for you? This comprehensive guide covers everything from deciding what type of network meets your needs to setting up the hardware and software, connecting different operating systems, installing the necessary applications, managing the network, and even adding home entertainment devices. Fully updated with new material on all the latest systems and methods, it's just what you need to set up your network and keep it running safely and successfully.
Inside, you'll find complete coverage of home networking
* Compare the advantages and disadvantages of wired and wireless networks
* Understand how to choose between workgroup and client/server networking
* Learn how to install and set up cables and routers and how to install and configure networking software
* Share files, printers, and a single Internet connection
* Back up files and secure your network
* Set up your own home intranet and understand the technologies involved in creating a Web page
* Manage your network and learn to use tools for locating and repairing problems
* Expand your home network to include your digital camera, scanner, TV, sound system, and even game consoles
* Explore SmartHome technology that allows you to automate various household functions
* Investigate how your network can enable tele-commuting and other remote access capabilities
Synopsis
Everything you need to know to set up a home network
Is a home network for you? This comprehensive guide covers everything from deciding what type of network meets your needs to setting up the hardware and software, connecting different operating systems, installing the necessary applications, managing the network, and even adding home entertainment devices. Fully updated with new material on all the latest systems and methods, it's just what you need to set up your network and keep it running safely and successfully.
Inside, you'll find complete coverage of home networking
* Compare the advantages and disadvantages of wired and wireless networks
* Understand how to choose between workgroup and client/server networking
* Learn how to install and set up cables and routers and how to install and configure networking software
* Share files, printers, and a single Internet connection
* Back up files and secure your network
* Set up your own home intranet and understand the technologies involved in creating a Web page
* Manage your network and learn to use tools for locating and repairing problems
* Expand your home network to include your digital camera, scanner, TV, sound system, and even game consoles
* Explore SmartHome technology that allows you to automate various household functions
* Investigate how your network can enable tele-commuting and other remote access capabilities
Library Journal
Home networks are becoming increasingly popular (see also Computer Media, LJ 10/1/02) as the technology becomes more affordable and easier to set up and as households begin accumulating multiple PCs and other devices. For new users, PC Magazine presents a fairly nonthreatening guide to installing and configuring a new wired or wireless home network (although some sections are a little too background-heavy for absolute beginners). Screen shots, diagrams, and images help clarify concepts, while the discussion of how and why to network various devices illustrates the advantages of connection; appendixes covering multiple network layouts and troubleshooting are particularly helpful. Recommended for all libraries. For beginning to intermediate users, Bible is nicely thorough, yet its very comprehensiveness may overwhelm new networkers. Step-by-step instructions and straightforward prose, explanatory figures and screen shots, clear tips, and appendixes on troubleshooting and telecommuting highly recommend this guide to anyone setting up a home network. Particularly appropriate for larger public libraries serving telecommuters, home businesses, and others needing more heavy-duty networking advice. Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.