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March 31, 2006
Dear CNET members,
Before we get started with this week's topic on how a wireless network works, I just wanted to let you know that Robert M. of Texas, who submitted last week's question on his disappearing system tray icons, returned to tell us that his issue was solved with the help of our members! Yippee! It's always a great feeling when our members go the extra mile to return and share their great news! So thank you, Robert and all the members who participated. Now let's get started with Anne's wireless network thing-a-ma-jiggy question.
To some of you, setting up a wireless (Wi-Fi) network is like a walk in a park, but as we all should remember at one time or another, we too were once in Anne's shoes. So for those of you who are contemplating setting up a Wi-Fi network or are just curious to see what it's all about, this newsletter is dedicated to you. We received some incredibly well-written submissions this week, and to give you a glimpse as to what to expect in setting up a Wi-Fi network, I'll start you off with Dana's winning answer. There are plenty of good reading materials on this topic, so pull up a comfy chair and check out the honorable mentions and recommendations by our members. If you have any additional advice, tips, or tricks in regards to setting up a wireless network, please offer them up in this week's discussion. I'm always eager to learn more, and I'm sure many of our members are right there with me. Thank you, everyone, and have a great weekend!
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Member Question of the Week
I've heard a lot lately about using wireless routers to
connect multiple computers at home. I want to connect my
son's computer with my two others so that we can share a
printer and Internet access. Can this be done? The three
computers run Windows XP Home Edition. Two have 512MB of RAM
and one has 256MB. We already have DSL hooked up to one
system. How does the wireless thingy work, and where do I
begin? How much can I expect to spend? Thanks.
Submitted by:
Anne B. of Boulder, Colorado
Home wireless networks are a great way to connect multiple computers to each other to share Internet connections, printers, and files. In many cases you can install and set up a simple working wireless network in about 30 minutes. As soon as you add file and print sharing, you could be at it for an hour or two, and longer if you run into problems. Since you have all Windows XP computers, you should be in good shape to get this up and running without too many problems. I am also assuming...
Submitted by:
Dana H. of Wayland, Massachusetts
For
Dana's
efforts, we're sending him his choice of any
Help.com Learning CD.
Community Buzz
 Each week we take a look at topics discussed in the forums.
Best regards and enjoy!
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How to disable unwanted
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Best speed for burning data
When you back up your data on CD/DVD-R, what burn speed do you back it up at? Is there really a best and safest speed to burn your data at? See what others are recommending in this discussion. And if you have some opinion about burning speeds, chime on in and let us know what they are.
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Mac nugget: Is Apple collecting information about you?
A couple of months ago there was a bit of a ruckus stirred up when it was discovered that info about users of iTunes was being collected by Apple. After the initial reactions, Apple released iTunes 6.0.2 which acknowledged the fact that the Mini Store panel was used to send information in order to enhance your buying experience, but Apple never issued a public statement about it. Does this mean Apple is still collecting information? Why has Apple never publicly acknowledged that information was collected and passed on? What do you think?
More from the Mac OS forum
Help WantedHere's your chance to help your fellow CNET members solve their PC and gadget woes.
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Check out next week's question:
I am looking for a good digital camera but don't know where to start. Are megapixels or optical zoom more important? I want to be able to take multiple photos instantly by holding down one button. I want panoramic photos, as well as photos that can be enlarged to poster size without losing quality. I want all of this in a camera that will last and not break the bank in initial cost nor the cost of cards. (Speaking of cards, which is the best type of storage type to get in a camera? Can the card actually affect the speed at which the photo is taken?) There are so many questions. Please direct me to a good brand and help me decipher through the technology mumbo jumbo.
--Submitted by:
Lee W.
If you have the answer,
e-mail us at messageboards@cnet.com.
If we choose your response, you'll get a
free Help.com CD.
Have a question?
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User name: basegiants
Location: Vienna, VA
Member since: July 06, 2005
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About me: I am an engineering student at my high school. I am the head of fabrication and chassis design for my robotics...
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