Wi-Fi routers, home servers, virtual private networks, and more.
Networking
How can I securely set up my network?
Episode 987
Bill from
Bill used to have a trial version of Network Magic, but since learned that it's been discontinued. He was wondering if there was a similar program he could get that would do the same thing. Leo says that Network Magic was needed when networking was newer, and setting up these networks was much more complex. The truth is, programs like these aren't really needed anymore, because routers are easier to set up now. Leo recommends just following the instructions that come with the router, and leaving it at that.
How can I sync files from a school network to my home?
Episode 970
Perry is a teacher, and he needs to sync files back from the school's server to his office computer so he can then sync them through DropBox. Leo suggests a utility called Second Copy. The chatroom likes SyncBack. Microsoft has SyncToy, but the latest version has some issues. Nice thing about Syncback and SecondCopy is that they do WildCards.
Another option is SpiderOak, but it's a paid service.
What is power line networking and why would I need it?
Episode 968
Charlie wants to know what Powerline Networking is and why would anyone need it? Leo says the idea is that the house is already wired with power lines, so why not piggy back on them? When it first came out, it wasn't that great. Engineers have improved it to the point that it's very reliable and is great for those who have large houses and need to access their network throughout the house when Wi-Fi isn't practical.
How can I print over a wireless network?
Episode 967
Steve bought his wife an iMac and he's been trying to set up Wireless printing and is having trouble connecting. Leo says it's likely a driver issue. The Mac says "drivers unavailable." Leo wonders if the printer is compatible for wireless printing since it's older. It may not work with the wireless router. If the printer can be seen, then it probably is just a driver issue. Since Bonjour recognizes the printer, that's a good sign that the printer can handle network printing. Leo says that the Xerox site has drivers, but they're only supported on Lion (OS X.7), not Mountain Lion.
How can I get on WPA2 Wi-Fi on an old laptop?
Episode 966
Dick has a 7 year old ThinkPad, and he can't get on WPA2 Wi-Fi networks. Leo suggests buying a USB WiFi Dongle. That'll take the WPA2 signal for him.
The chatroom says that it's possible to change out the Wi-Fi card on the laptop, but Leo says it's cheaper to go the dongle route. Dick just has to be sure he's using the latest Service Pack of XP (SP3). He'll also get better reception that way.
How do I create an internal ticketing system for a business?
Episode 964
Robert wants to set up a ticketing system for technical support and computer repair. He could use GoTo Assist, which has a very powerful hosted service desk solution. So it's a cloud solution that's both internal and external. (Disclaimer: GoToAssist is a sponsor).
The chatroom recommends SpiceWorks.
How can I get connect my Slingbox to a router located in another room?
Episode 963
Mike has a Slingbox 350, which cannot be connected to a router through Wi-Fi. He would need the Slingbox 500 for that, but Leo has the solution without Mike having to bring back his current Slingbox.
How can I get the fastest download speeds?
Episode 964
Jeff from
Jeff upgraded to 50mbps download, but he doesn't get that. Leo says that it's likely a "burst mode," at the beginning, and then it slows down to a conventional speed. One thing Jeff can do is upgrade to an "N" speed router (802.11n).
Should I buy or build network attached storage?
Episode 963
Rich from
Rich has two Western Digital 2TB hard drives that have failed on him. Leo says that hard drives can fail, even in the very beginning. Larger hard drives can fail more often, but they are getting better. Western Digital replaced the failed drives and he's thinking of building a network attached storage (NAS). He's wondering if it would be easier to just buy one instead. Leo says that buying is easier and he likes Synology for that.
What can I use my old computer for?
Episode 961
Leo says that a file server is a good option. Turning it into a network attached storage device (NAS) is a great thing to do. Check out FreeNAS or Puppy Linux, which may be easier to try. Leo recommends watching Know How Episode 5 where we use Puppy Linux to do just that.
