Services - Networking and Wireless
Broadband ISP Selection and Installation
Need a faster Internet connection at home or for a small office? I can help you understand how fast a connection you really need, what broadband technology is best for your needs, what services you need from an ISP, and what ISP can offer what you need at a reasonable price. I can also explain to you why I recommend that you never install an ISP's software and why they wont tell you that you don't really need it! Instead I can install your new Internet connection using the native features of your operating system for trouble-free connections every time.
Modems, Routers, and Wireless
I can install and configure your broadband modem, router or wireless router correctly and securely. Actually following the instructions supplied by most ISPs will result in a connection that is slower than it could be. And, following the basic installation instructions that come with a wireless router will leave your network completely unsecured and open to connections from all of your neighbors. I can also show you how to test your broadband connection speed and also how to simply determine where a network problem exists when you Internet seems slow.
Firewalls and Security
Are your home computers, small office network, and wireless router correctly configured to protect you from cracker intrusion, spy-ware, trojan horses, worms, virus, and other security threats? The vast majority of home PCs are already affected by one or more of these threats without users even recognizing it. Once connected to the Internet a brand new PC cany easily become passively infected by spy-ware, worms, or viruses within the first few hours of use. I can help you configure your new or old PC correctly to reduce the likelihood of it being affected by these threats and minimize the potential consequences if you do become affected. Nearly all of the tools needed to secure your computer are already available for free on both Windows and the Mac OS -- they just need to be enabled and configured correctly.
Small Office - Networks, Email, Domain Names, and Web Sites
Did you know that your home or small business can often maintain it's own domain name (e.g., MyCompany.com), dozens of email addresses (e.g., Me@MyCompany.com), and a web site for less than $15 a month. Did you know that your home or small office can have broadband Internet connectivity for all of it's computers for only $50-$100 per month from most local ISPs. I can help you understand what your broadband needs are and what products and hardware will best meet your needs. In addition I can build and configure an Ethernet or wireless network to provide network connectivity to all of the equipment in your office -- often using very inexpensive hardware available from local office stores.