» What do I need to start a computer network?
At least two computers, or one computer and a broadband Internet connection. The most common home network is 2 PCs that want to share one Internet connection. When you add printers, more PCs, laptops, etc., then you will want to network all those so that you can share and distribute information.

» How do I share an Internet connection between 2 or more computers?
The easiest way to connect two or more PCs is with an Ethernet switch. An Ethernet switch is a device that allows multiple Ethernet enabled devices to communicate with each over a network.

» How do I make sure my computer is safe on the Internet?
The best solution is to have a firewall. You can choose a software firewall, which is a program that runs on your PC and monitors all your network traffic for possible breaches of security. Another type of firewall is a hardware-based firewall, which we recommend because this stops possible breaches of security before anything actually reaches your PCs. A hardware firewall also doesn’t take up any resources on your PCs and can handle multiple PCs rather than having a software firewall on every PC on the network.

» How do I upgrade my network to wireless?
Upgrading your network to use wireless (a.k.a. Wi-Fi) communications is simpler than it may seem. The most basic of wireless network setups involve one wireless access point and one wireless adapter for the PC or laptop. The wireless access point broadcasts the wireless signal and the wireless adapter picks up the signal and sends data back to the wireless access point thus simulating a wired data connection.

» How much does computer networking cost?
Prices vary between providers, but our rates are competitive and fair. Please click here for networking rates.

» How do I share a printer between 2 or more computers?
There are a couple ways to do this. First, you can have the printer directly connected to PC #1, and for PC #2 to be able to print from it, both computers would need to be connected to each other (usually via an Ethernet switch). Then PC #1 would need to enable sharing of the printer so PC #2 would be able to use that printer. The other option is to have the printer hooked up to a print server. The print server will then control the access from all PCs on the network to that printer, thus eliminating the need to always have PC #1 on in order for PC #2 to be able to print. This method also shifts the resources usage away from the computers and onto the print server.

» How can I keep my kids safe with "parental controls"?
There are some broadband routers that can provide adequate parental controls. This means you can tell your broadband router to not allow (for example) certain websites with adult keywords in their domain name to be able to come through to PCs on the network. There are also software programs that enable parents to set restrictions as to what types of sites their children can view, or not view. Based on your needs we can suggest a method that will work best for you.
Any method you choose should always be combined with the best parental control there is- educating your children about the dangers you want to protect them from, and staying in touch with their computer usage habits. Any child, no matter the age or their precociousness, may be able to subvert your hardware or software parental controls, and unless they know what to avoid and why, and that you are monitoring their computer usage, your child is still at risk.