Wireless home networks are better than ever! The emergence of new industry standards has made them easier, more convenient, less expensive to own and operate. Still, you need to know what to look for (and look out for), and the expert guidance you'll find in Wireless Home Networks For Dummies, 3rd Edition helps you ensure that your wire-free life is also a hassle-free life! This user-friendly, plain-English guide delivers all of the tips, tricks, and knowledge you need to plan your wireless home network, evaluate and select the equipment that will work best for you, install and configure your wireless network, and much more. You'll find out how to share your Internet connection over your network, as well as files, printers, and other peripherals. And, you'll learn how to avoid the "gotchas" that can creep in when you least expect them. Discover how the right networking equipment Install and configure your wireless network Integrate Bluetooth into your network Work with servers, gateways, routers, and switches Connect audiovisual equipment to your wireless network Play wireless, multiuser computer games Establish and maintain your network's security Troubleshoot networking problems Improve network performance Understand 802.11n Whether you're working with Windows PCs, Mac OS X machines, or both Wireless Home Networking For Dummies, 3rd Edition, makes it fast and easy to get your wireless network up and running--and keep it that way!
I recently installed a wireless network in my home and much to my surprise it setup and worked immediately. When I used the configuration interface to the router I found a variety of 'Advanced' settings and while the purpose of some are more evident than others, I got curious about what all they were for and could they be altered for better performance, security, etc.
The first third of this book is dedicated to planning - mmm, maybe I should have read that first? it covers figuring out what you want or need, as you might not be exactly aware of that is yet if you are new to the game; explaining the various, and plentiful, terminology that may be like another language to the average person. Dummies strongly suggests getting equipment with the latest and greatest capabilities, such as a router using the 'N' network. Though they also point out less expensive options particularly if you are working with older equipment and a smaller budget.
Once you get into the functionality chapters, most examples are given for Windows and Mac, (which also means things move faster as you can skip one or the other).
They also delve into the pros and cons of connecting your entertainment center, as well as various other items in the wireless high tech household; printers, your car, iwhatevers.
The final chapter has a variety of links and references for more information should you wish to continue your education.
I found it an informative, good introductory read.
The library I work in has a wireless network for the public and I am also considering adding a new network in my home so my daughter and I can share printing and the internet. So far this is a pretty good introductory book.