Home Networking Information from RGSCOM Dorking, Surrey

Sharing Broadband Internet Connections & Home Networking

Sharing a broadband internet connection and setting up a home network should be simpler than it often is. Hours can be wasted only to realise that your router and wireless network card just aren't compatible, despite what it says on the box.

First, a brief overview. Your [cable, DSL, dial-up] modem or set-top-box is the 'gateway' between your home and the internet; it handles the WAN [Wide Area Network, the internet] data or 'traffic' and passes it on to your computer. A router operates between the modem and multiple computers on a local network.

A router is the hub of the LAN [Local Area Network, your home PC's & laptops] and essentially handles the traffic both between computers on the local network, and their individual traffic to the modem and thus the internet. Routers also have firewalls built-in, can offer wireless connectivity and share files and printers.

Home Networking Made Simple: Most Common Problems & Solutions...

• Slow Internet Conection: Security software conflicts, viruses & malware.
• Cannot Connect My Laptop: Network security settings or router incompatibility.
• No Local Network: PC's share broadband, but not networked to share printers & files.
• Annoying Pop-Up Messages: Clear internet cache or use LavaSoft Ad-Aware Personal
• Slow Start Up: Too many add-ons such as toolbars, protection software or utilities

For multiple problems, a full backup, reformat and customised reinstall can return a laptop or PC to better then new. Collect & return service available to Dorking, Guildford, Reigate & Horsham areas.