Home Networking Tips

Computers have become an essential part of our everyday life. In addition to being glued to the machines at workplace, people enjoy using the computer at home as a mean of communication, information, entertainment and social networking. As more or less all family members like to use the computer at home so one desktop machine is not sufficient anymore and almost everyone has his own desktop, laptop or tablet in action at home. As everyone has to connect to the internet and share other resources (printer, scanner etc.) and data so a home network has become a necessity these days. Some important guideline while setting up a home connection and maintaining it afterwards are given below:

Wired or Wireless: First you have to decide the type of network you are going to have. In a wired environment, you will have to place a network switch at some central location and run cable to each room where a connection is required. It is more expensive, difficult to setup and not very scalable. But it is more reliable and secure. Wireless network is considered more suitable for home users these days. The main reason is that it provides mobility as home user may want to use the laptop anywhere in the home. Also wireless network is easier to setup and is more scalable.

Type of Internet Access: A similar decision is whether to get an internet service through DSL, Cable or WiMAX. DSL is dependent upon your phone company and the bandwidth may be the best in this case but if you have a bad phone line or the phone company’s services are not up to the mark then your internet service will not be smootgh. Similarly cable internet is a good idea if the cable company’s infrastructure ansd servies are reliable. In case of WiMAX, you normally do not have to call the company to check the last mile as they normally are monitoring the transmission all the time. The bandwidth being offered may be a lot less than DSL. So it is always a tradeoff while choosing the best internet option.

Network settings: Assign static IP addresses instead of using DHCP. In case of Wi-Fi system, change the default admin username and password of the router. Also change the default SSID and disable the SSID broadcast feature. Enable WPA2 security which will encrypt all data moving in and out of your network.

Securing the Network: Use a good antivirus program with latest updates. The program should secure your network from malware, phishing and adware as well. Use updated version of common software. Use a software firewall to keep out unwanted traffic. Keep downloading windows and other software patches and updates so there are no security backdoors to hack your network. Configure Internet Explorer to use a popup blocker and anti phishing feature. Prevent kids from downloading malware. Also avoid unwanted downloads. Always backup your data in case anything goes wrong.

Hardware Security: Take good care of hardware as well. Do not allow anything to spill on your computers. Keep all the system safe form small children. Use UPS and surge protectors for your computers and network hardware. Make sure all the equipment has adequate air flow. The power outlets should not be overloaded.