Don't recognize a term here? Consult our glossary for definitions and descriptions.
Why do I need a home network?
There are many benefits to having a network:
• Share your broadband connection
• Share your files like music and pictures
• Secure your PCs from outside Internet threats
• Play games online with people from all over the world
• Share the family printer
Should I get a wireless router or a wired router?
The kind of network you install in your home is a personal choice. Each type
of home network functions very well when installed correctly. Ethernet(wired)
is easier to set up, cheaper and generally provides the highest speeds, but
wireless(802.11-based) networking provides more mobility and flexibility of
PC location. Powerline (wired networking using your home's outlets) is an appealling
compromise between complexity and portability. Check out the How
to get Started section for home setup examples and more information on available
products.
What is a broadband router?
A router will enable your computers to share your broadband access. Your computers will need network adapters or wireless NIC cards if you have a laptop.
The basic idea behind a broadband router is to allow two or more computers to share a broadband connection and acts as a traffic cop. The router uses a security technology called NAT (network address translation) to mask your computer’s address to the world. This ability prevents hackers from accessing your PC remotely.
There are so many different types of routers available, how do I know which router to buy?
The router you choose should depend on what you need from your network Please refer to KW: Broadband gear and click on the link in the lower left corner “Design your own network” to help you choose the router that meets your needs.
Why should I spend the extra money and choose a wireless network?
• Mobility
• Ability to work anywhere and walk around all around the house without cables
• Easy installation thanks to advancement of technology
• No additional wires or cables to hinder your mobility
• More computers can be connected to a wireless network
• Convenience
If wireless has such flexibility, why would I want to choose a wired network?
• Less expensive
• Faster speed
• More reliable
Can I use wired and wireless equipment on the same network?
Absolutely. In fact, a combination of home networking products is often the
best way to meet your home's needs. Check out the How to Get Started Home Networking
section for some examples of mixed home networks.
I have decided I want a wireless network, what are the different wireless options available to me?
Now that you have decided to build a wireless network, your next step should be to figure out which wireless standard to use.
What are the different types of wireless standards?
Wireless standards are simply a set of specifications for a wireless device. Wireless devices follow a specific standard and share similar operating characteristics, such as maximum data transfer speed and the radio frequency they use. For wireless networking, there are three standards to choose from currently:
• 802.11b – most widely adopted standard in wireless
• 802.11a – a standard that is incompatible with 802.11b and 802.11g
• 802.11g – backwards compatible with 802.11b and offers higher speeds
Is there someone who can install a home network for me? Yes! AOL for Broadband is happy to offer premium professional home network installation services from DecisionOne. They can install wired, wireless or mixed home networks when it is convenient for you. Call 1-800-232-8174 for a free estimate.
Will I notice any wireless interference
from a cordless phone or a microwave oven?
Many types of cordless phones and all Microwave ovens have signals in the 2.4
GHz spectrum. This is the same spectrum used in 802.11b wireless networks. In
some cases when the signals 'collide' they can slow down the connection speed
between your computer and your wireless base station. To avoid this -- try to keep
your active cordless phones and microwave ovens away from your computer and wireless
base stations.
Should I use Ethernet or USB networking
adapters with my PC?
Either type of connection will work if you have the correct port available on
your PC. If you have Ethernet ports available these are often the best choice
as they do not require software installation to function. USB is the other popular
option and provides good connectivity after you install the adapter's driver
software. Examples:
Linksys Wireless USB adapter for Desktop or
Netgear Wireless USB adapter
How secure is a wireless network?
Almost all routers provide network security features, though most are turned
OFF by default. Once you have successfully installed your router it is recommended
that you follow the manufacturer's instructions for turning security ON.
For instance, it is recommended that you change your wireless network's name, known as SSID (Service Set Identifier) and the password that was pre-programmed into your router by the manufacturer.
What are the different options that I have for router security?
1. Basic router security acting as a traffic cop is provided by Network Address Translation (NAT) which masks your computers’ address and manages the flow of information to and from the PCs that are connected to it and prevents hackers from identifying your PC while you're surfing the web.
2. Stateful Packet Inspection (SPI) Firewall inspects packets to ensure they are a legitimate part of your communication. SPI feature is now built into most routers and provides a higher level of security than NAT.
In all cases you should use the setup CD that comes with your router to choose
an SSID. If you don't have this or need to change settings later, you'll need
to access your router directly. Linksys, Netgear and Actiontec routers can all
be configured through a web browser. Simply make sure the PC is connected to
your router, launch your web browser, then enter the following IP number in
the web address box for each of the AOL for Broadband Compatible routers:
Linksys: 192.168.1.1
Netgear: 192.168.0.1
Actiontec: 192.168.0.1
You will see a settings screen where you can type in a new SSID and password
- remember to click save once you've made a
change!
WEP or Wired Equivilent Protocol, is the mechanism by which the
radio transmissions that make your wireless network function are kept secret
from interlopers. Think of this as a lock-and-key, where the router is a lock
that hands out keys to each computer. In fact, the string of numbers (or related
passphrase) you use when you turn WEP on is called a key.
Follow your router's instructions carefully when configuring WEP.
With unique SSIDs and WEP enabled, wireless networks are very secure.
Can I see which computers in my home are connected to
the network?
Yes. Wired and Wireless routers have controls that will allow you to see who
is logged into your home network. The AOL for Broadband Compatible routers
can all be accessed through a web browser on your attached PC using the IP
numbers supplied by the manufacturer(192.168.1.1 for Linksys, 192.168.0.1 for
Netgear, 192.168.0.1 for Actiontec). For other router brands or models you should
consult their instructions or contact the manufacturer.
I have more than one computer at home, but only one broadband connection? Can I share it?
Absolutely, but you will need a broadband router.
Is a router the same as a modem?
No, the router must be connected to a cable or DSL modem and acts as a traffic cop directing traffic from the modem to your PCs.
A cable/DSL modem is a device that connects a Cable/DSL broadband line to a computer or home network.
Can I connect a Macintosh computer to my home network?
Generally yes. Recent Macintosh computers come with Ethernet built in and some
products may have wireless as well. The Mac hardware and operating system[OS] has extensive networking
functionality built in. You should check with Apple
for details of connecting a Mac to your network.
Can I connect an Apple Airport to my home network?
Apple Airports operate with the same 802.11-based technology as other types
of routers in the marketplace. They also now are compatible with both Macintosh
computer and PCs. Check with Apple for details on setup if you plan to install
an Airport.
What kind of cables do I need to connect my router to my computer(s)?
For AOL for Broadband Compatible routers all the necessary cables are included
to connect your new router to a personal computer. Most other router manufacturers
include cabling as well. If you feel something is missing you should contact
the manufacturer. For questions about what comes with AOL for Broadband Compatible
Linksys, Actiontec and Netgear equipment, you should first check the product
details here: Broadband
Gear-Home Networking.
What operating systems do my computers need to be running
to connect to a home network?
Windows 98 or greater is recommended, though most modern operating systems, including
Macintosh OS, should function well with a home network. Detailed support for Windows
networking can be found at the Microsoft
Support site while Mac OS networking questions can usually be answered by
the Help function in the OS or by visiting the Apple
Support site.
Can I install a home network without a broadband connection to the Internet?
Generally no. A few routers such as the Apple Airport have dial-up modems built in. If no dial-up
modem is built into the router you will not be able to connect.
If you have no internet connection at all your computers will be able to share
data and resources locally but will not be able to access the internet.
Can I use a router with my dial-up modem?
Most routers are designed for broadband internet connections only. The Apple
Airport is an exception as it has a dial-up modem built-in and can also
support Broadband connections.
What routers will work with AOL for Broadband?
Any router that works with your type of broadband (DSL or Cable) should work fine with AOL for Broadband.
Note for AOL Cable users: If you have AOL for Broadband Cable (you ordered cable through AOL) you will need to use one of the custom AOL Compatible Linksys or Actiontec routers available at Broadband Gear - Home Networking
What broadband Internet Service Providers[ISPs] can I use with my home network?
You should be able to connect your home network easily to Cable broadband or
DSL broadband. It should not matter which ISP is providing the connection
- though some ISPs recommend or require the use of specific home network equipment
on their systems. Satellite broadband requires special equipment so you should
check with the provider about networking with satellite.
How do I connect to AOL from two different
computers in my house?
To connect to AOL from two different computers you either need two internet
connections (which is usually impractical), or a broadband connection and a
home network. A home network allows you to share an internet connection among
several computers, enabling all of them to connect to AOL.
What is a switch?
A switch extends the length of your network and also allows more computers to be hooked up to your network. Think of it as a power strip for your network - it adds more plugs.
What is Ethernet?
It is nothing but a name for the way a network transmits data. Your router probably came with an Ethernet cable and Ethernet ports. It looks liek a phone cord and jack, but larger.
What is a USB adapter?
Universal Serial Bus (USB) adapter suports data transfer rates of 12 Mbps.
What is the range of my wireless network?
In most cases the range of a wireless network is 70 feet - 150 feet. There are
several factors that can effect the range of your wireless network: Distance
between the wireless router (or access point) and the networked computer, obstacles
such as walls or floors, and interference from some appliances that use the
same frequency as the router (2.4 GHz cordless phones or active microwaves,
for example).
SETTING UP YOUR HOME NETWORK
I am installing the Netgear WGR614, are there any tips or tricks to installing it successfully?
Here are some tips to keep in mind as you install your Netgear router by following their Installation Guide:
1.Powering down (Step 1). You should turn off your DSL or cable modem before installing your new router, then turn it back on after it is connected. Some of the older DSL and cable modems do not have an on/off switch so you will need to pull the power cord from the back of the modem.
2.Connecting cables (Step 1). The Netgear box supplies a telephone cord but you will not need this cord during the installation. You will need to use the Ethernet cable which looks similar to the telephone cord but has larger jacks at each end.
3.Powering up (Step 1). The instructions ask you to look at the 'test' light but some of the Netgear routers do not feature this particular status light. If your router does not have this light simply continue to the next step.
4.Logging into the router (Step 2). When Netgear's instructions tell you to log into the router with a browser, make sure you use a stand-alone browser such as Internet Explorer or Netscape, NOT your AOL software.
5.Configuration (Step 3). When instructed to enter your 'ISP settings' on the configuration page, do not re-enter your router's log in information. If you get your DSL from AOL this will be your Screen Name (don't forget the @aol.com at the end) and password. If you get your connectivity separately from a DSL or cable provider, 'ISP settings' refers to the email address and password you use to log in to that ISP.
6.Completing the connection (Step 3). When you enter the 'ISP settings', instructions will tell you to click on 'Apply' and then 'Test'. But when you click on 'Apply', it takes you another screen that does not feature the 'Test' button. At this screen, you will also see a continuously-updated time displayed on the page which does not necessarily mean you are online. The phrase 'You are now connected' also appears at this point, but is misleading. You will need to activate your connection by clicking on 'Test'.
7.Wireless connection (Step 3). Once you have successfully connected with your primary computer, it is time to connect your second computer to your wireless network. In order to get the second computer online, it needs to have a wireless NIC card. Many laptops this year are coming with network cards built into the computer. If your laptop is not wireless enabled, you will need to install a network interface card on your laptop or desktop. If you have configured your wireless router correctly, the Microsoft OS will automatically detect the wireless connection and a small icon (two tiny PCs) will appear in the lower right hand corner of your PC screen. Double click on the wireless icon and continue to configure your wireless connection.
What version of AOL do I need to be running for my home
network?
You should use the latest AOL software on your home network - AOL 8.0 or above.
AOL does not connect over broadband after I
set up my router. What should I do?
You should try disconnecting the router and connecting your PC directly to the
internet(your broadband modem) again. If you are now able to connect to AOL, your
router's settings may not be correct. You should shut down your PC, reset or turn
off the router, power down your broadband modem, then, in order, a) turn on the
modem b) turn on the router, and c) go through your router setup process again.
If you are still having problems you can contact the AOL for Broadband Compatible
Home Networking vendors. If you do not have an AOL
for Broadband Compatible router, you should contact your router's manufacturer
for assistance.
Professional Installation: If you want a home network but need some hands-on help setting it up, AOL for Broadband has a relationship with DecisionOne, a premium on-site installation and home networking phone support company. Call 1-800-232-8174 for a free estimate.
My router is not working -- how do I fix it?
If your router was functioning and has stopped, you should try resetting the unit
by unplugging it, waiting a few seconds, then plugging it back in. If you are
still having problems you should contact the router manufacturer. If you have
never successfully gotten your router to work, you should try the setup process
again and then contact the manufacturer if this doesn't work. For support of AOL
for Broadband Compatible products, click AOL
for Broadband Compatible partners
Do I need to change my AOL sign-on location when I have
a home network?
If you have DSL or you get your broadband from an ISP other than AOL your location
setting on the AOL sign-on screen should be set to "ISP/LAN" when
you use a home network to connect to AOL for Broadband. If you have AOL Cable
(you ordered your cable from AOL) your AOL sign-on location for each PC should
be set to AOL - Cable.
How do I get PS2, XBOX or GameCube game consoles to connect to the internet over my home network?
Some game consoles, such as the PS2, XBOX and Gamecube are able to connect to
the internet over a home network. This enables online game play, a very popular
feature of current games on the market. All of these consoles offer Ethernet
connectivity, so simply plugging the console into one of the available ports
on your router and following the console's instructions should get you on the
internet. You may need to purchase additional hardware to get your console online
- a network adapter in the case of the PS2 (you can buy one in Broadband
Gear - Games). For more information about connecting a game console to AOL
for Broadband see AOL Keyword: DSL
Devices.
If you would like a technician to stay on the phone with you during your installation of a home networked game console AOL for Broadband is pleased to offer DecisionOne advanced technical phone support for $39.99. Call 1-800-232-8174 for a free estimate.
USING YOUR HOME NETWORK
How can more than one person use one Internet connection?
Just like with telephone or electricity, broadband internet can be accessed almost anywhere in the home. Most people who have a broadband internet connection ultimately share it by installing
a home network, which uses a router to direct internet traffic to and from multiple computers.
If I have several computers using the same broadband
Internet connection will I notice a slowdown in performance?
In most situations you won't notice any slowdown in your broadband performance
when two or more people are online over your home network. Only very bandwidth-intensive
activities such as video streaming or large file downloads will noticeably affect
your connection speed.
Could I have more than two people connect to AOL at
the same time with one AOL for Broadband account?
Yes. If you are on one of AOL for Broadband's price plans that include Multiple
Simultaneous Login[MSL] you can use more than one screen name at once. The plans
that offer MSL are $14.95 Broadband BYOA[Bring Your Own Access], $24.95 Broadband
BYOA with unlimited dial-up, and the $54.95 AOL for Broadband plan. Price plan
details can be found here: AOL
for Broadband Price Plans. The best way to take advantage of the Multiple
Simultaneous Login feature included with these plans is to install a home network
- this will allow more than one of your computers to be online at once.
I have AOL for Broadband but am unable to get more than
one screen name online at a time - what is wrong?
If you have broadband and are able to connect to AOL successfully but cannot
sign on with more than one Screenname you may want to confirm you are on one
of the broadband price plans that offer this feature. The plans that offer MSL
are $14.95 Broadband BYOA, $24.95 Broadband BYOA with unlimited dial-up, and
the $54.95 AOL for Broadband plan. Details of AOL for Broadband price plans
can be found here: AOL for
Broadband Price Plans
Once I'm on one of the AOL for Broadband
price plans how do I get the Multiple Simultaneous Logins turned on?
One you sign up for an AOL for Broadband price plan your MSL feature will be
automatically activated within 48 hours. The MSL feature is available to AOL
for Broadband members who are on certain price plans: $14.95 Broadband BYOA,
$24.95 Broadband BYOA with unlimited dial-up, and the $54.95 AOL for Broadband
plan.
Can I make--and receive--phone calls while someone in
my home is connected to AOL on broadband?
Yes, you may use your phone and your DSL or Cable connection at the same time.
Using your phone should not affect AOL or Internet performance.
What kind of files can I trade between computers on
my network?
It is possible to share almost any kind of file among the PCs on your home network.
Check with your OS (Windows, Mac) Help tools for the details of file sharing.