Wireless is not a type of broadband, it is not something ‘different’, it is just a means of connecting to various devices in the home or work place. All you need is a means of transmitting and receiving the broadband connection, the tiscali wireless options now available, provide you with an ADSL wireless router which gives you the option of wirelessly transmitting your broadband signal through your home.

Some great advantages; there’s no need to be within arms length of the telephone socket and no need to have dangerous wires trailing across your home, it liberates you and allows you to place your computers anywhere in the home or office as long as there is a means of wirelessly receiving the broadband signal, which in most cases new laptops and desktop computers come with pre-installed hardware allowing Wi-Fi or wireless connections, if not these adaptors can be bought at a very low cost and can be plugged into a free USB port.

Yes I did say ‘computers’ you can connect as many as you like anywhere in your home! Well the limit is around 250 wireless connections so I would imagine most people would be more than covered. You can even enjoy broadband in your garden as the range of the wireless connection can extend beyond your bricks and mortar.

Don’t let this worry you though, you can very easily configure tiscali wireless broadband with WEP security, a form of encryption that allows only you and your allowed devices on to your wireless network, only you posses the key to your network. In a way, very much like locking the front door behind you. You can even add a few more locks and bolts to your networks ‘door’ by choosing WPA encryption which changes the password or key on the fly every half hour or so, this is all very easily implemented and comes effectively pre-configured, so the choice of security level is yours.

The Tiscali wireless options come at no extra cost essentially giving you a free ADSL wireless router, even existing customers can upgrade to the option and receive a free wireless router if you agree to renew your contract for a further 12 months, not a bad deal considering these products if purchased in the high street could fetch anywhere in the region of £50 to £80!

So all in all in terms of ease of use and of course price, I highly recommend tiscali wireless broadband when looking for a wireless option to connect to the internet.

A Wireless Hidden Camera is a great way to observe people working in your home. Now you will know who took the money you left on the table this morning because you have them on camera.

You can even view your new puppy if he’s chewing the furniture or doing his business in your house.

Ahh, when the kids get home from school are they really doing their homework?

And yes, has your spouse been acting strange lately? A Mantle Clock Wireless Hidden Camera facing the door will show all the people who came into your house while you were away.

Wireless Hidden Cameras are the most popular products today when it comes to home security.

Why? Because they are wireless and easy to install — they can be up and running within 10 minutes.

A Wireless Hidden Camera has a transmitter that is built inside an everyday object that you would usually see in your home or office. This way your Wireless Hidden Camera will blend in with your decor without drawing attention to it.

A separate receiver is simply attached to your VCR so you can see exactly what your camera is seeing. Being wireless, no wires or cables run under your rugs or through your wall.

Yeah, but how about some more reasons to use my Wireless Hidden Camera.

OK, here’s a few more uses for a Wireless Hidden Camera:

• To know what’s going on in your home with your teenagers when you’re away
• How good is your babysitter — is she always alone when caring for your kids?
• You have an unexplained loss of inventory lately in your store
• Front and Back Doors of your Store or Warehouse — keep an eye on who’s coming and going
• Detached Garage/Tool Shed — protect your tools and other valuable objects
• Watch your teenager’s party in the basement without even being there

These are just a few uses for a Wireless Hidden Camera. I’m sure you can come up with many other that would help you.

Regardless of your need, a Wireless Hidden Camera will let you know that’s really going on in your home or office.

Don′t Be the Next Victim and Don′t Become a Crime Statistic!

Wifi is available to every type of internet user and allows multiple users to connect to each other, other devices and the internet. However, your connecting device will need to have a Wifi certified card (PC Card or PCMCIA card) and it will connect to other certified products such as a base station or access point. It also saves on the cost and distance limitations of using cables, not to mention the unsightly look of running cables throughout an area.

These networks are very useful in the business and sales industry as they allow salespeople and travelers to connect to the network with ease and not be confined to one location to access applications such as email and databases. They allow business networks to easily expand and grow making a Wifi network a very useful technology in the business world. Businesses no longer need to abandon current network infrastructures and start over, they can simply use this wireless technology to easily change the network and allow for rapid growth.

Wifi networks work at the 2.4 or 5 GHz bands and possible speeds of 11 or 54 Mbps. Their speeds are very comparable to 10baseT networks and allow for easy network access. A Wifi network is essentially plug and play as you can turn on a certified device and connect to the wireless network providing you have the proper authentication and security credentials.

Wifi networks have security in the form of WEP (Wired Equivalent Protocol) that can provide the same level of security as that of a wired LAN. Wireless networks that are transmitted over radio waves are more susceptible to security problems, but WEP aims to provide security by encrypting the data sent over the radio waves.

Limited connectivity
One of the reasons you could limited connectivity if you might be using a wrong WEP, WAP or WAP2 key. Just double check that and make sure the right key is entered. You may also encounter this problem if you have improperly setup your wireless network connection. Try entering your IP address, default gateway and DNS servers manually and see if it works. If it doesn’t work try automatic settings.

More than one computer
Often, when you more than one computer, you will have more problems than usual. When two computers are using the same network, they both have separate but similar network IP addresses. It also depends on whether you’re using DHCP server or static IP addresses. Using static IP address will likely lead to fewer problems.

Every time you connect to your wireless network, the router assigns each computer different IP addresses. It will never assign same IP addresses because IP address conflict will occur. However, sometimes you might accidentally set same IP address for both computers. Double check this and make sure they’re both using different IP address.

Wireless network is unavailable
Oh my god. This error keeps coming up even though I’m freely using the network on my laptop or mobile phone. Ridiculous message and I hate it. But it doesn’t mean you have the actual connection. So check that your network is broadcasting and then try connecting. Still doesn’t work? Plug the network adapter out and restart your computer and try again.

No luck?
Try setting up your network again or repeating some things you did before. Sometimes it helps.

Benefit #1 Keep an Eye on Your Kids and Their Nanny First of all, one of the main benefits of installing a wireless camera is that you can keep an eye on your kids, as well as their nanny. There are a variety of great spy cameras that will work well in your home to help you keep an eye on your nanny. Better known as nanny cams, these cameras will provide you with peace of mind knowing that your children are well cared for, and if they are not well cared for, you’ll have the evidence to do something about it.

Benefit #2 Watch Out for a Cheating Spouse If you think that your spouse may be cheating on you, having one of these wireless spy cameras may come in handy as well. You can keep an eye on your home with the camera to help figure out whether this is actually something you need to worry about. Either way you′ll be able to find out the truth and then make a decision based on what you see.

Benefit #3 Security for a Business Another benefit of having spy cameras is that you can use them as security for your business. Even if you don’t have an actual security system in your office you can install your own cameras and set up a security system of your own. You can even set it up so that you can review what the cameras record as well. So, whether you use it to watch your employees or to keep an eye on the place when you’re not there, it is still going to be a great addition.

Benefit #4 Offers Security for Your Home that you Can Watch If you set up these spy cameras in your home, you’ll have a great security system that you can watch in real time. If someone breaks into your home, you’ll be able to see them and where they are. So, for home security, a wireless spy camera is a great idea.

Benefit #5 Fits into Your Home Decor An added benefit of installing a wireless spy camera is that you can definitely find one that will fit right in with your home decor. You wont have to worry about any ugly cameras or something that everyone is sure to spot. There are available cameras that are hidden and that look great in your home. So, you can get style and security all with the same spy camera.

Many homes are starting to use wireless security systems. These do not require any drilling or laying of many wires. Wired home alarm systems typically need to be installed by professionals whereas wireless systems can be installed by pretty much anyone very easily.

Wireless home alarm systems are great for many more reasons. Because everything communicates wirelessly it is possible to move the separate components around the home without having to change any wiring. It’s also very easy to add new features and sensors onto this device, you don’t have to run a separate cable for each device you intend to add. However there are limitations by the system as to how many devices it can support.

Every wireless security component has a built in radio transmitter to enable it to communicate with the central control unit. Most of the cheaper systems will sound an alarm when the sensors detect any movement. More expensive units are more useful as they often alert you as to where the movement was detected. This information is very useful when you are trying to identify false alarms, or working out which rooms may be dangerous.

Wireless Security Systems aren′t Perfect

Nothing is perfect, unfortunately wireless security systems aren′t perfect either. They may be easy to install however there are some disadvantages. Most wireless devices operate using batteries, this will mean you have to change them frequently. Not only is this a nuisance but if you let the batteries die then your security system is compromised.

If you are using cameras then I suggest using motion sensor cameras as these will not be on all the time, only when movement is detected which will save power. As the battery runs down the signal is not as powerful which can be a right pain. You might find that your security system works very well with new batteries, however when they run down a little the signal may not be able to get through. This can potentially cause false alarms.

There are now many websites devoted to ‘Wardriving‘, which involves people searching for exposed wireless networks and sharing this information via websites of via their social network.

If you have set up your wireless network straight from the box and have not changed any of the default settings, then there is a huge chance that you are supplying somebody else free Internet access or being hacked into. A wireless network will never be as secure as a cabled network. By following the seven steps below then you will stand a much better chance of protecting your home network.

1. Change The Admin Password

The default password for most wireless kits is ADMIN. If you haven′t changed this password then change it as soon as you can. It is surprising the amount of wireless networks that are hacked into or accessed by a third party because the ADMIN password is still ADMIN. Especially as manufacturers manuals can be downloaded from the Internet with their admin password.

2. Disable or Change the SSID

The Service Set Identifier [SSID] is a code that wireless hardware sends out to identify itself to other devices. By default the SSID is normally the manufacturer’s name. The SSID is only required when devices are first synchronizing with each other, so the best option is to disable the SSID broadcast once your network connection is established.

By disabling SSID broadcast you will make it much harder for an intruder because they will have to start guessing the SSID code. Most wireless gateway devices offer the option to disable SSID broadcast, however some may require a firmware upgrade, and some devices do not offer that option at all.

If you cannot change the SSID or do not want to disable it, then the SSID should be changed to a unique phrase that is hard to guess. Using non-dictionary words as well as numbers and special characters for the new SSID will make it much more for your wireless network to be accessed by hackers.

3. Use 128-bit WEP Encryption

Wireless Equivalent Privacy [WEP] is the security standard and offers the option of either 64 or 128 bit encryption. It also includes additional encryption using the Initialization Vector (IV), which is a series of random bits added in front of a message before it is encrypted. 64-bit encryption is easier to hack into than 128 bit. You may need to update the firmware on your wireless device to be able to use 128-bit encryption.

By using encryption, if the wireless device and computer do not contain the encryption key, then no exchange of data will take place. Enabling 128-bit encryption will discourage people not permitted to access your network and make your network more secure. The casual hacker will normally move onto an easier target if they find encryption is enabled.

4. Turn off DHCP

Most wireless devices have Dynamic Host Control Protocol [DHCP] enabled. This allows a new host on your network to introduce itself and request an IP address so it can then connect and use your wireless connection. All very convenient for a legitimate user, but for an trespasser onto your wireless network, that’s like putting a ‘come steal from me sign′ outside your open and unlocked front door.

While it may be a pin to the legitimate user to your wireless network, it’s a necessary one due to the amount of damage that can be done if left turned on. By using static IP addresses you will create another hurdle for the unwanted prowler wanting to steal your bandwidth and probably more.

5. Enable MAC Address Filtering

Each computer network adaptor has a unique address built in called the MAC address. Most wireless devices allow MAC address filtering. By creating a MAC address list of permitted network adaptors [that are attached to a computer], you are creating a guest-list so to speak. If a computer with a MAC address on the list, they will not be permitted to access the wireless network.

Mac addresses can be spoofed by a very technical minded knowledgeable individual, however by using MAC address filtering you will deter all but the most determined hacker.

If you are unsure about how to proceed with any of the above please read the manual that came with your wireless hardware. There normally is a wizard or step-by-step walk through that will help you.

I hope the five above tips will come in handy and enable you to use your wireless network without the threat of an unwanted intruder.

In the United States there are several frequency ranges for wireless products for unlicensed consumer use. They are 49MHz, 900MHz, 2.4GHz, 5.8GHz, and Family Radio Service (FRS) band. Most recently the FCC added the Multi-Use Radio (MURS) service.

Back when consumer wireless products were first introduced, these wireless products used the 49MHz frequency spectrum. Early cordless telephones used this spectrum and it is still used by cheap baby monitors and other low-end wireless units. It has a short range and is prone to lots of interference. You won’t likely find wireless intercom systems that use this spectrum.

Later, 900 MHz products using analog transmission technology arrived on the market. Neither the 49MHz or these early 900Mhz products have any form of security. Anyone with a device in the same frequency can listen in to conversations. Newer digital spread spectrum 900MHz products divide digital transmission across a range of frequencies so other devices can’t eavesdrop on your conversations. Wireless intercom systems use 900MHz and some communicate up to 1000 feet.

2.4GHz devices were next to market. There are a growing number of cordless telephones and other devices in this range. As far as intercom systems, video intercom systems are the primary users of this range. 2.4GHz is also the frequency range used by WiFi wireless data networks (802.11B/G) in homes and businesses so products in this range can interfere with each other. However, the majority of people don’t experience any problems in mixing 2.4GHz systems. If there is a problem with an intercom system, it could be that the WiFi gateway reboots itself when the intercom is used or it could produce a clicking noise on the intercom system.

The setup for the wireless data routers allows you to select the wireless channels the router uses to communicate. If you experience problems you could try changing the channels, but the problem with this is that many 2.4GHz devices use spread spectrum technology that enables them to change their frequency every second or less. They may use the entire 2.4GHz spectrum so changing the frequency may do no good. If you choose a wireless video intercom in this frequency and you have a wireless network, make sure you can return the intercom if it doesn’t work for you.

The Family Radio Service (462-467MHz) is in the Ultra High Frequency (UHF) band and is basically an improvement to the old walkie talkies of long ago. These handheld radios are sold everywhere and used heavily so any intercom systems in this range would have to compete with these handheld radios (and anyone can listen in to your conversations). There are no know wireless intercoms systems that use FRS.

Now 5.8GHz products are starting to make their appearance in the cordless phone arena. No compatibility issues exist between 5.8GHz and 2.4GHz devices so no problems should be experienced in mixing them. However, there are currently no known wireless intercom systems in this range.

The most recent addition to the wireless intercom market are products in the MURS range. MURS is a service in the VHF (Very High Frequency) 150 MHz Citizens Band radio spectrum. MURS has a power increase of four times that of FRS radio. And unlike FRS, you can add a larger or external antenna to improve range. If you want to put an antenna on top of your house, you can do it with MURS. Some antenna manufacturers claim an external antenna can increase the effective radiated power of a transmitter by a factor of 4. These MURS intercoms can transmit up to four miles, and perhaps more with an external antenna.

The MURS 4 Mile Range Intercom system is the wireless intercom you need if you have a large property or you need to talk between buildings. You can use a MURS to not only communicate within a home, but to neighboring homes as well. You can even add a handheld unit to your MURS intercom system so you can stay in touch away from your home.

You’ll also see some intercom systems that claim to be wireless but they really use the power wiring in your home or business to send and receive transmissions from the intercom. To use them, you just plug an AC adapter into the wall. These systems are very prone to humming or buzzing and are not recommended unless you are prepared to live with this possibility. They are typically the least expensive intercoms of the bunch.

Another thing to consider is what features you need. Some systems have outdoor intercoms to use at the front door or in other applications where a waterproof device is needed. One system even has flush-wall-mount systems so you can make your wireless system look like a custom installed system. You can mix these wall-mount intercoms with portable units. You’ll also need to decide if privacy is important to you. If you don′t want other people hearing your conversations, you’ll need a system that provides digital security.

So the wireless intercom system you choose depends on the application you have, the wireless devices already in your home or business, the range you need to cover, as well as your budget. But, once you choose the right system, you’ll be able to enjoy the convenience a wireless intercom system provides for years to come.

So how do you do that -if you do not want to spend the money and if you still want something faster than dial-up? Where do you look?

Answer- go to any of your public libraries. (Possibly your private libraries or school libraries might offer this same free service. You can begin your free wireless connection through the library as long as you are in the library ). So become a book-bug and head off into the nearest library to enjoy the great fast speed of broadband and DSL, without paying the bigger price of it. Right now, you can connect by wireless (If you have a wireless card in your computer -and most modern laptops have that already) at the New York Public LIbraries and at the Brooklyn Public Libraries in Brooklyn, Staten Island and all the boroughs. Most likely you can do that at any library. Just check with the librarian, for more information . I will write another article giving specific instructions on how to do the connection -at a later date.

Also referred to as “wifi,” wireless Internet is usually accessed on a laptop, cell phone, and other mobile computing device. You can also set up a wireless network between the computers in your house using a special router. People use wifi at home as a way to wirelessly access the Internet from any room in the house. It really is the most convenient way to go online in the modern world.

Wireless Internet providers offer a wide range of services to customers with speeds that compete well with DSL and cable. In the past, before the introduction of wireless Internet and routers, the only way you could connect to the Internet on your laptop was through a very slow, dial-up connection. Luckily, wireless Internet now allows you to go online without having to plug into a phone line.

Connection speeds for wireless broadband vary between 384 Kbps and 2.0 Mbps, which is a whopping 35 times faster than your average dial-up speed. This allows users of mobile devices to carry out online tasks on the go – and you can do more than just email and text message. Plus, it allows you to wirelessly set up a network at home with the use of a router.

Wifi and wireless routers make it possible to download streaming media and large files no matter where you happen to be – this is a convenient option for media junkies who just can′t get enough of online media, such as videos. This type of router in particular lets you share files between several computers at home. In the past, you had to create a wired network for this to work – now routers make it possible to network more than one home computer more easily. Wireless routers let you bridge several computers together, even in different rooms.

How it works is that you purchase a wireless Internet connection, and then set up a router to transfer the signal elsewhere, and share the Internet connection.

With a laptop and router it’s easy to get connected to a wifi signal and take advantage of wireless broadband – almost every laptop sold now comes with a wireless modem already installed. The same goes for portable handheld devices, which have wifi capabilities built right in. The number of wifi hotspots is also increasing, so you can almost always find access to a broadband connection when you need it.

So where do you find a wifi provider? If you want to find a broadband connection in your local area, that isn’t in your home or office, all you have to do is search online for hotspots that provide wireless Internet service. There are various websites that help you locate broadband connections in certain areas, especially as wireless Internet access grows in demand.

A wifi connection doesn’t have many requirements. Although different from other connections, providers do provide many of the same features provided by other services. A wireless Internet service usually requires a laptop computer or a computer that is connected to wireless routers. A regular computer may need a Wi-Fi card for the service to work properly.

For wireless Internet access you may also need sniffer software that allows you to search out hotspots around your town.