MakeUseOf - Computer Networking

VoLTE vs. VoIP: What's the Difference?

Katie Rees — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 11:15:29 GMT

Today, there's more than one way to make a phone call. Sure, you can go the traditional route, or you can opt for alternative methods, like VoIP and VoLTE. These two communication protocols may work well for you, but they are not one and the same. There are key differences between VoIP and VoLTE to consider before trying either.

What Is Half-Duplex And Full-Duplex Operation, And How Does It Affect Your Router?

Fatih Küçükkarakurt — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 15:45:29 GMT

In today's interconnected world, the efficiency of our digital communications hinges on underlying technologies we often overlook. One such fundamental concept is "duplexing," governing how data is transmitted and received across networks. Whether you're making a phone call, watching a live stream, or using Wi-Fi, understanding the difference between full duplex, half duplex, and simplex systems can provide insights into the design and performance of our daily tech.

What Is a MixNet and How Does It Work?

Elvis Gwaro — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 15:01:27 GMT

Whenever we need to improve our online privacy, we often have two options: VPNs or Tor. Most internet users will adopt the former, while more tech-savvy individuals will employ a mix of the two.

Why Is My Ping So High? How to Get the Best Ping Rate

Shan Abdul — Sun, 10 Sep 2023 11:00:27 GMT

Do you experience constant lag when playing online games? Do bullets from the enemy hit you even when you successfully hide behind the cover?

How to Fix an Unstable Wi-Fi Connection: 6 Tips and Fixes

Kannon Yamada — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 21:01:26 GMT

Wondering why your network is unstable? Unstable Wi-Fi often starts with wireless congestion, which is common in busy areas.

Why Does Rebooting a Router Fix So Many Connection Issues?

Aaron Brooks — Sat, 09 Sep 2023 14:30:27 GMT

If you ever (or constantly) run into Wi-Fi issues at home, you’ll probably know the classic “turn it off and back on again” fix. This is always the first thing to try when you have connectivity issues with a router you have access to–but why does this simple trick seem to fix so many different issues?

What Is Port Scanning and How Does It Work?

Fatih Küçükkarakurt — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 13:01:16 GMT

When your computer goes on the internet, it uses ports to help do its job. Both network administrators and hackers possess a keen interest in scanning these ports for weaknesses. However, what is a port, and why do individuals scan them?

Has Your Wi-Fi Been Hacked? Here’s How to Know and How to Prevent It

Chris Odogwu — Sat, 19 Aug 2023 13:00:23 GMT

There's so much talk about being security cautious when using public Wi-Fi because criminals can easily compromise them. But do you know that your private Wi-Fi is prone to hacking too?

The Pros and Cons of PCI-e Wireless Network Adapters vs. USB Wireless Solutions

Dann Albright — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 15:30:22 GMT

When you want to add wireless networking capability to your computer, you have two options: a PCI-e network adapter or a USB wireless solution. USB wireless adapters are small, portable, and cheap, but does that mean they're better?

What's an IP Conflict and How Do You Resolve It?

Ben Stegner — Sat, 12 Aug 2023 15:15:24 GMT

If you've ever seen a "Windows has detected an IP address conflict" or "another computer on this network has the same IP address" message, you might wonder what this warning means. While IP conflict issues aren't usually difficult to fix, they are confusing, especially for those new to networking.

What Are Smart Metal Business Cards? 8 Reasons to Get One

Joshua Adegoke — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 19:45:24 GMT

Despite its advantages, the classic business card sounds like a thing of the past in our social media and digital era. A quick search on any social media site can make it possible to access information about anyone in seconds. But did you know that using smart metal business cards can merge the elegance of business cards with cutting-edge tech?

How Long Can an Ethernet Cable Be Before It Loses Signal?

Katie Rees — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 11:15:22 GMT

While many of us connect to Wi-Fi to browse the web, most Wi-Fi routers require a hard-wire Ethernet connection, which connects you to the internet. But how long can an Ethernet cable be before it stops being effective?

Do All VPNs Allow You to Use the Tor Browser?

Katie Rees — Sat, 22 Jul 2023 13:00:23 GMT

If you're big on online security, chances are you use a VPN. You may also want to use the Tor browser to give your security an extra boost, but do these two technologies clash? Can you use the Tor browser with a VPN, and if so, which providers allow it?

How Does AI Work in VPNs?

Katie Rees — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 13:00:22 GMT

AI and VPNs are two key kinds of technology that have entered the mainstream over the past decade. But the merge of the two may allow VPN users to access an even higher level of security. So, what role can AI play in VPNs, and is it already being used in this kind of software?

What Is the .io Domain Extension, and Why Do Tech Sites Use It?

Dreamchild Obari — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 21:30:20 GMT

In the digital era, establishing your brand's web presence is crucial. The first step is creating a website with two main components: the website name and a domain extension.

What Is a Reserved IP Address? How Do You Reserve One?

Yadullah Abidi — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 11:15:17 GMT

IP addresses form the backbone of every network, including the internet. However, with so many randomly generated IP addresses floating around, frequently accessed devices on a network like a router require a constant, easy-to-remember address.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a VPN

Katie Rees — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 13:00:17 GMT

There are now so many VPN services out there that choosing the right one for you can be a frustrating and overwhelming task. That's why it's useful to have a handy guide to follow so that you're picking the right product. So, what should you be looking for, and what red flags do you need to take note of when buying a VPN subscription?

Does Your Wi-Fi Speed Drop? Here’s Why and 7 Tips to Fix It

James Frew — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 14:56:53 GMT

One moment you're dominating the latest online game while downloading large files in the background, but the next, you can barely load a simple website.

12 Ways to Improve Your Wi-Fi Router Speed

Dan Price — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 10:45:19 GMT

A good router can make a massive difference to your internet connection speed. But if your router performance has slowed down, how can you keep up in a world of online meetings and streaming platforms? Keep reading if you want to know how to optimize router settings for speed or establish the best router configuration for faster internet.

How to Check Your Wi-Fi Network for Suspicious Devices

James Frew — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 20:00:18 GMT

A lot of different people have probably connected to your Wi-Fi network, be it friends, family, or others. However, you should be regularly checking the devices connected to your network. Hidden among all the legitimate connections may be suspicious devices with odd names and gadgets you don't recognize.

The 8 Biggest Tech Myths You May Still Believe

Katie Rees — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 11:16:18 GMT

With technology having become such a big part of our lives, it's no surprise that myths and misconceptions have arisen. Some of these have become more popular than others and still resonate with many of us today.So, what are the biggest tech myths out there?

VPN Split vs. Full Tunneling: Which One Should You Use?

Oluwademilade Afolabi — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 17:00:19 GMT

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) gives you a ninja’s mask. It acts like a secret tunnel for your internet connection and then wraps your data in an invisibility cloak to ward off prying eyes while protecting your true identity. But not all VPNs are the same; they handle your internet traffic differently.

What to Look for When Buying a Mesh Wi-Fi System

Hashir Ibrahim — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 11:00:18 GMT

The struggle with Wi-Fi dead zones and slow speeds at home and the workplace is real. A great solution is the Wi-Fi mesh system, which consists of Wi-Fi nodes that you can scatter across your home or office building. These nodes expand the internet coverage area by communicating with the central router that connects to your internet modem.

How to Get Wi-Fi Without an Internet Service Provider: 5 Ways

Dan Price — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 10:46:34 GMT

Getting on the web is expensive. The average cost of a home internet connection in the United States is $60 per month. But can you get Wi-Fi without internet?

Can My Phone Be Tracked With Location Services Switched Off?

John Awa-abuon — Mon, 12 Jun 2023 13:15:17 GMT

The thought of someone tracking your every move is scary, whether it's your employer, government, or even a stalker.

Cabling Your Home Network? Here’s a Helpful Cat 5e Wiring Diagram

Arjun Vishnu — Sat, 03 Jun 2023 10:15:18 GMT

Speed is why you want to use a wired network; using the right wiring is key for a fast network. Using the right tools and correct pinout diagrams, your home network can be set up quickly for years of trouble-free operation.

What Are Default Open Ports? Should You Change Them?

Adaeze Uche — Thu, 18 May 2023 10:45:18 GMT

Your computers, servers, and routers communicate over the internet with external services, like web, database, and email servers. Ports are the portal through which these communications occur.

How To Set Up A Network Domain

Adaeze Uche — Sat, 13 May 2023 15:15:17 GMT

Creating a network domain is crucial in today's digital age, where schools, governments, corporations, businesses, and other large-scale organizations rely more on digital tools and technology. When you set up a domain network, whether wired or wireless, you can share and control files, Internet, and printer access.

What Is the Difference Between Network Throttling And Network Prioritization?

Oluwademilade Afolabi — Sat, 13 May 2023 10:16:17 GMT

We rely on the internet for our day-to-day activities, and any compromising or limiting factor on internet speed or bandwidth becomes a headache. This limitation is often due to network throttling and network prioritization.

How to Connect Mobile Internet to Your PC via Tethering

Christian Cawley — Fri, 12 May 2023 21:45:18 GMT

Need an internet connection for your PC or laptop, but don't have access to public Wi-Fi? The solution is simple: connect your smartphone's mobile internet connection to your PC. This process is known as tethering.

What Is a Supernet and How Does It Work?

Wasay Ali — Wed, 10 May 2023 15:30:17 GMT

As technology advances, the demand for faster and more efficient communication networks continues to grow. One solution that meets these needs is supernet, a network of networks. It is a high-performing system that connects various networks and allows them to operate as one.

TruthGPT Unveiled, Police Raid Mullvad VPN, the Best Free PC Games, and Mechanical Keyboards Explained

Christian Cawley — Thu, 27 Apr 2023 10:30:16 GMT

Has Elon Musk gone too far with the new Twitter verification program? And what did police find when they raided Mullvad VPN? We've got the answers to these questions and a list of the best free PC games. PLUS: how do mechanical keyboards work, and do you need one?

NPR Quits Twitter, AI Voice Telephone Scams, and Your Router's WPS Button Explained

Christian Cawley — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 10:30:16 GMT

In this week's tech podcast for technophobes, we look at the latest news and warn you about a frightening new telephone scam. We also check what Elon Musk has been up to in the past week. Did he ever launch that cologne?

Can AI Make Jokes? PLUS: The History of Laptops and How VPNs Have Improved

Christian Cawley — Thu, 13 Apr 2023 10:31:17 GMT

This week's podcast brings you a collection of in-depth explainers, which will show you how AI can (or cannot) create jokes, a look at the earliest portable computers, and the ways in which VPNs have evolved and improved.

8 Basic Server Types Used in Computer Networking

Sandra Dindi — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 10:30:17 GMT

In modern programming, the prevailing architecture relies on client-server communication. A client computer requests data from a server. The server receives the request and responds to it with the data or an error of some sort.

WEP, WPA, WPA2, or WPA3: How to Tell What Security Type Your Wi-Fi Uses

Bemfica de Oliva — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 15:50:16 GMT

Did you know your Wi-Fi connection uses one of four different Wi-Fi security types? While all of them are different, they're not all equal; thus, it's essential to learn what security type your Wi-Fi uses.Let's explore the four Wi-Fi security types and see which ones are best.

What Is the WPS Button on My Router?

Gavin Phillips — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 14:26:44 GMT

If you've prodded around your router, you've probably found a strange button labeled "WPS" on it somewhere. But what is this mysterious button, and what would happen if you pressed it?

Proton VPN Browser Extension, How to Change Your Email Address, and the ChatGPT Windows App Is Fake

Christian Cawley — Thu, 16 Mar 2023 10:30:16 GMT

Join us for a chat about the week's important tech news that matters, along with tips and tricks concerning keylogger malware, and a ChatGPT scam that can fool anyone. We've also got the lowdown on how to change your email address--it's tougher than you think...

What Is a Low Power Wide Area Network and What Are Its Uses?

Bob Sharp — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 10:30:16 GMT

The internet continues to grow, and the Internet of Things (IoT) is one area that continues to grow at a pace. Low-Powered Wide Area Networks (LPWANs) are driving much of this growth, a type of low-power connection for a wide area network that is useful for IoT deployment and usage.

What Is Port Forwarding? Everything You Need to Know, Explained

Bemfica de Oliva — Wed, 08 Mar 2023 21:05:16 GMT

Port forwarding sounds far more complicated than it is. It's just like receiving a stack of letters in your mailbox and then handing each one out to the relevant family members.

What Are the 5 Key Elements of a URL and What Do They Do?

Alexandra Anderson — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 19:45:17 GMT

We've all been there: You type a website's name into your favorite browser's address bar, or maybe you click the result of a Google search. Then suddenly, a string of seemingly random words and symbols appears at the end of the site URL. Of course, you have no idea why it's there, but you're happy to be safely viewing Amazon listings, Google search results, or whatever website you choose.

What Are VPCs and Subnets in Cloud Computing & How Do They Work?

Timilehin Omolana — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 18:46:15 GMT

Cloud computing has brought significant changes to how we imagine computing resources.

How to Network Two Virtual Machines With VirtualBox

Yadullah Abidi — Sat, 04 Mar 2023 11:30:16 GMT

If you ever need to run multiple OSes simultaneously, a virtual machine (VM) is one of your best options. It's cost-effective, provides relatively good performance, and with thousands of free resources available on the internet, is relatively easy to set up regardless of your expertise with VMs and hypervisors.

How to Reset a TP-Link Router to Factory Defaults

Tashreef Shareef — Sat, 25 Feb 2023 11:30:15 GMT

You can reset a TP-Link router back to its factory settings in multiple ways. The reset process removes all the custom settings and restores the router factory defaults so you can reconfigure the TP-Link router again.

Five Eyes, Nine Eyes, and 14 Eyes Surveillance Explained

Dan Price — Thu, 23 Feb 2023 18:45:17 GMT

If you've ever used a VPN, or are concerned about online privacy, you've probably stumbled across references to "Five Eyes," "Nine Eyes," and "14 Eyes."

Meta's Facebook Verification, How VPNs Evolved, and Connect an Android Phone to Your TV

Christian Cawley — Thu, 23 Feb 2023 11:31:16 GMT

Our podcast this week takes a look at new announcements from Mark Zuckerberg concerning verification on Instagram and Facebook, and considers how VPNs have evolved over the past decade. PLUS: How to connect an Android phone to your TV and watch anything.

Google DNS vs. Cloudflare DNS: What's the Fastest DNS?

Rishabh Chauhan — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 18:00:16 GMT

If you're a geek, you're probably familiar with DNS. A good DNS provider can significantly impact your internet connection's speed and browsing experience.

How to Replace Your Laptop’s Wi-Fi Adapter

Bob Sharp — Thu, 16 Feb 2023 14:16:16 GMT

Much of our work, rest, and play now rely on reliable and seamless connections to the internet. Whether you are watching Netflix or using Remote Desktop Services to work from home, there is a good chance that all that traffic flows through one device—your laptop's Wi-Fi adapter.

What Is MAC-Binding, and How Does It Work?

Oluwademilade Afolabi — Thu, 02 Feb 2023 15:01:16 GMT

MAC-binding means binding the media access control (MAC) address to a device's Internet Protocol (IP) address. Think about this as putting a nametag on every device that connects to a network. So, if there is a change to either the MAC address or the device's IP address, you will not be able to connect to that network. With MAC-binding, the internet network can identify and communicate with the right device, making data transfer seamless and efficient.

We Took a Look at Every Gaming Desktop, Monitor, and Router MSI Revealed at CES 2023

Paul Antill — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 23:40:15 GMT

At CES 2023, MSI unveiled more than just its newest and refreshed laptops. A large focus of MSI's 2023 presentation was its introduction to new market segments. The computer manufacturing giant showcased an award-winning lineup of gaming desktops, monitors, hardware, peripherals, and for the first time, routers. Many of these new releases contributed to MSI winning 15 awards at CES 2023.

How to Use an Android Device to Monitor Your Network and Devices in Real Time

Arjun Vishnu — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 11:15:16 GMT

If you want to print a document on a network printer in another room, how do you know whether the printer is switched on or turned off?

What Is the Difference Between Network Bandwidth, Speed, and Throughput?

M. Fahad Khawaja — Sun, 15 Jan 2023 13:46:15 GMT

We often use the phrase "the Wi-Fi's slow today" while referring to an underperforming network speed at home or the office. Technically speaking, this is misleading. Generally, there's a lot of misconception regarding the correct meaning of different network performance metrics such as bandwidth, speed, and throughput, and we're here to put that right.

What's the Difference Between NAT, Bridge, and Host-Only Network Modes?

Jayric Maning — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 22:45:16 GMT

Hypervisors are tools used to create virtual machines (VMs) for hosting services, testing, and software development in a secure environment. Unfortunately, this level of security is only possible by completely sandboxing the virtual machine from the physical world, which is a problem if the project needs any networking.

Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet: Which Should You Use and Why?

Andy Betts — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 21:45:16 GMT

Not so long ago, you'd have to choose between having a wired or wireless setup for your home internet, online gaming, and all other network-based activities. But now it's a no-brainer: Wi-Fi is the obvious choice.

Decentralized VPNs vs. Tor: What's the Difference and Which Is Better?

Nischay Khanna — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 15:30:15 GMT

The internet is supposed to be about freedom, but government agencies, internet service providers, and malicious entities constantly monitor these data highways.

How to Test Your Home Network Speed (And Decipher the Results)

James Hirtz — Sat, 07 Jan 2023 12:00:15 GMT

Do you ever ask yourself how all your devices utilize your home network? Over time, you're adding new devices, but you don't know how this impacts your network in turn.

Cable vs. Fiber vs. DSL Internet: Which One Is Better?

Bertel King — Tue, 27 Dec 2022 13:30:15 GMT

So you've just moved into a new neighborhood and, depending on where you are, you have an important choice to make.

6 Reasons Your Wi-Fi Dongle Performance Sucks

Ben Stegner — Sat, 24 Dec 2022 14:00:16 GMT

A dongle is a small device, typically in the general form of a USB flash drive, that plugs into another device to provide extra functionality. A wireless dongle, also called a Wi-Fi adapter, provides Wi-Fi capabilities to a device that otherwise isn't Wi-Fi-capable, such as a desktop PC with no wireless network card.

What Is Airplane Mode? How Does Airplane Mode Work?

Ben Stegner — Thu, 22 Dec 2022 21:00:16 GMT

Grab an Android phone, iPhone, iPad, or even a Windows PC, and you'll see an airplane mode toggle in their various shortcut menus. But what is airplane mode and what does it actually do? How can you use it to your advantage on your phone or PC?

14 Useful Ways to Reuse an Old Router (Don't Throw It Away!)

Christian Cawley — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 14:16:16 GMT

Reckon it's time for a new router? Maybe your new Internet Service Provider (ISP) has sent one out, or you simply fancy an upgrade. Either way, you're faced with a problem:

LastPass Breached Again, Free Streaming TV Services, Wi-Fi Standards Explained, and VPNs on Smart TVs

Christian Cawley — Thu, 08 Dec 2022 11:30:15 GMT

We've got the latest important tech news that matters in this week's tech podcast for technophobes, plus a load of tips and tricks that you can use to improve your experience with streaming TV.

What Is Starlink's Data Cap & How Does It Work?

Gavin Phillips — Wed, 07 Dec 2022 11:15:15 GMT

SpaceX's Starlink satellite internet service is steadily increasing its coverage, bringing extraterrestrial internet to every inch of the Earth.

6 Tips to Improve the Speed of Your Powerline Network

Andy Betts — Sun, 04 Dec 2022 14:46:14 GMT

A powerline network is a great solution to patchy Wi-Fi coverage in your home. It also helps you get a wired, Ethernet connection to a computer or games console without running long lengths of cable around your house.

Does a VPN Protect Against Malware?

Katie Rees — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 16:00:15 GMT

There's no doubt that a VPN can help you maintain your online privacy and security. But does it do this by protecting you from harmful programs? Can a VPN keep you safe from malware and viruses like an antivirus provider, or are the two very different things?

How to Survive Black Friday: Avoid Scams, Streamline Shopping, and Find Your Inner Peace

Christian Cawley — Thu, 24 Nov 2022 11:30:16 GMT

Black Friday should be just another day. Yet thanks to marketing and culture, it has seeped into the national consciousness as a "must do" activity. But Black Friday comes with concerns, from overspending and obsessing over the "right" deal to scams.

What Is Amazon Project Kuiper? Will It Be Better Than Starlink?

Katie Rees — Sun, 20 Nov 2022 22:45:15 GMT

In 2019, Starlink began launching satellites into space to provide people with more accessible broadband. The network is owned by Elon Musk and operated by SpaceX, another of the billionaire's companies. But Musk isn't the only one delving into this field. Amazon is also developing a satellite broadband service, currently known as Project Kuiper. So, what's Project Kuiper all about, and is it better than Starlink?

What Is Network Time Protocol? Why Is It Important?

Oluwademilade Afolabi — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 15:16:15 GMT

Time synchronization is critical in computer networks because planning, managing, debugging, and protecting a network all entail establishing when an event occurred and require precise time. However, maintaining an exact time is challenging because the computer's clock drifts by a few minutes or seconds daily.

Bitcoin Crash, Windows 11's Start Menu Ads, Portless iPhone Rumoured, and What Is WPA3?

Christian Cawley — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 11:31:14 GMT

Bitcoin is crashing, leaving a lot of people out of pocket. Windows 11 is sneaking ads into the operating system, and what is WPA3? With some public Wi-Fi tips and recommendations, this is your Really Useful Podcast.

4 Things to Know Before Buying a Wi-Fi Router for Your Home

Gavin Phillips — Tue, 15 Nov 2022 13:51:14 GMT

The days of booting up your PC, plugging in your dial-up modem, and connecting to AOL with its signature tone are long gone. Instead, Wi-Fi is now the de facto standard when connecting to the internet, with smartphones rejecting the idea of wired connections entirely.

How Does In-Flight Wi-Fi Work? Is In-Flight Wi-Fi Worth It?

Gavin Phillips — Sat, 12 Nov 2022 18:20:14 GMT

Long flights are one of the worst times to be disconnected from the internet. Fortunately, more and more airlines now offer in-flight Wi-Fi, allowing passengers to check their emails and surf the web while 40,000 feet in the sky.So, how does in-flight Wi-Fi work? Which airlines offer it? And more importantly, what are the downsides?

What Is Beamforming? How Does It Make Your Wi-Fi Faster?

Nischay Khanna — Sat, 12 Nov 2022 11:30:15 GMT

All of us are looking for perfect Wi-Fi that reaches every corner of the house and offers the data speeds that our ISP promised. However, to make this dream come true, we need Wi-Fi technology to transmit signals directly to our devices without any degradation.

What Is a Replay Attack? Here's Everything You Need to Know

Damir Mujezinovic — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 14:01:14 GMT

There are countless ways for a cybercriminal to target an organization or an individual, but some types of cybercrime are more difficult to defend against than others, and thus more dangerous. Replay attacks fall into this category.

How to Use Starlink in Cars, Boats, and Planes

James Dolan — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 11:30:14 GMT

Imagine you're in the most remote location on the planet, and you're finding it difficult to access reliable internet because there is no network coverage or fiber optic cables. But if you're traveling using a car, boat, or plane, you can access the internet if you've installed Starlink.

What Is Jack Dorsey's Web5 and How Will It Work?

Oluwademilade Afolabi — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 16:45:15 GMT

Over the past few years, powerful companies like Facebook, Google, and Amazon have taken more control online. Each platform has its interests, goals, and plans to profit from us in one way or another—not necessarily because they want to, but because that's how capitalism works.

WEP vs. WPA vs. WPA2 vs. WPA3: Wi-Fi Security Types Explained

Gavin Phillips — Tue, 08 Nov 2022 20:05:15 GMT

Wireless security is extremely important. The vast majority of us connect a mobile device to a router at some point during each day, be that a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or otherwise. Furthermore, Internet of Things devices connect to the internet using Wi-Fi.They're always on, always listening, and always in dire need of additional security.That's where Wi-Fi encryption steps in. There are several different ways to protect your Wi-Fi connection. But how do you know which Wi-Fi security standard is best? Here's how.

The 5 Best VPNs for Trading Crypto

Ponvang Bulus — Sun, 06 Nov 2022 20:21:14 GMT

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are commonly used to secure internet users from attacks of different kinds. However, cryptocurrency users and traders are particularly vulnerable because bad actors seek to steal their funds.

Should You Always Leave Your VPN Turned On?

Oluwademilade Afolabi — Sat, 05 Nov 2022 19:00:14 GMT

We’ve all experienced a nosy stranger peering at our phone screen on the bus to work or school. Similarly, strangers can check out your browser window. It’s a common phenomenon that exposes people to all forms of cyberattacks online.

Elon Musk's X App, Secure Wi-Fi from Neighbours, Android Auto Troubleshooting

Christian Cawley — Thu, 03 Nov 2022 10:31:14 GMT

Our weekly tech podcast for technophobes explains Elon Musk's plans for Twitter, how to secure your Wi-Fi from your neighbors, and tips for troubleshooting Android Auto.

How Does the Internet Work? A Step-By-Step Guide

Jowi Morales — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 13:15:15 GMT

The internet. We use it every day, whether knowingly or unknowingly. Many depend on it for work and survival. Without the internet, life as we know it will cease to exist.

Android VPN Leak, Raspberry Pi DOS PC, and the Windows Registry Explained

Christian Cawley — Thu, 20 Oct 2022 10:30:15 GMT

Why has Microsoft Office become Microsoft 365? Should you take Google's offer of a free VPN on your Android Pixel 7? And how do you back up the Windows Registry? The answers are in our tech podcast for technophobes.

GTA6 Hack Arrest, Tech Jobs You Can Do Without Coding, and What Is Ethereum Merge?

Christian Cawley — Thu, 29 Sep 2022 10:30:13 GMT

Ever wanted to join the tech industry, but think you can't get a job because you don't know how to code? You couldn't be more wrong! In this week's podcast we show you the options for getting a non-programming job in the IT world, plus the usual news and recommendations.

What Is Signal Jamming and What Can You Do About It?

Richard Adejumola — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 15:00:14 GMT

You have probably heard about signal jamming in spy movies or about when states use them for media censorship. But jamming can also be an attack from a neighbor or hacker.

802.11b Devices Slow Down Your Wi-Fi Network. Here's Why

Nischay Khanna — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 15:45:14 GMT

Wi-Fi changed how we connect to the internet. Allowing users to access the internet through radio waves, Wi-Fi enabled users to connect to the World Wide Web without being tethered to a cable.

How to Boost Your Wi-Fi Signal and Extend Wi-Fi Range

Gavin Phillips — Wed, 14 Sep 2022 22:36:43 GMT

Wi-Fi signal is precious. Moving away from the router invariably means your Wi-Fi signal starts to drop. Go far enough, and you will enter the dark zone: the place Wi-Fi cannot reach. In that situation, you might wonder how you can boost your Wi-Fi signal. Can you boost it throughout the house? Into the yard? To your neighbors?

The Most Common Wi-Fi Standards and Types, Explained

Gavin Phillips — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 20:50:14 GMT

Wi-Fi is a catch-all term. In a sense, it is very precise. It explains a specific method you can use to connect to the internet.

Should You Use More Than One Router? The Pros and Cons

Deepesh Sharma — Mon, 12 Sep 2022 21:30:14 GMT

A wireless router provides radio waves within a fixed range. When planning to increase the wireless range or security of your network, the first thought that comes to mind is using multiple routers for the job. This might be optimal in some cases where more is better, but sometimes employing multiple routers can do more harm to your network than good.

What Is a Reverse Proxy and How Does It Work?

Nischay Khanna — Thu, 08 Sep 2022 22:01:14 GMT

Website traffic is not constant. For instance, the traffic on content streaming services like Netflix goes through the roof when new episodes of popular series are released.

What Is XMPP & How Does It Work?

Bertel King — Wed, 07 Sep 2022 14:00:14 GMT

XMPP (also known as Jabber) is a well-established instant messaging protocol millions have used, whether they were aware of it or not. Various popular messaging apps began as XMPP chat clients before morphing into something walled off and proprietary.

Why Should You Choose RAM-Only VPN Servers?

Fawad Ali — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 14:00:14 GMT

The traditional way of running a VPN server involves the use of hard drives that store data until it's erased or written over. In such a setup, there is always a possibility that VPN servers may retain information sensitive to the users.

What Is a Router and How to Use One: The Beginner's FAQ

Tina Sieber — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 21:05:14 GMT

When was the last time you had to deal with the hardware that lets you connect to the internet? A router is one crucial piece in your internet and home network setup.

7 Ways Fiber Optic Cables Are Better Than Copper Cables

Jayric Maning — Wed, 10 Aug 2022 10:30:14 GMT

With the world heavily reliant on worldwide network connections, Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and IT organizations have been searching for a better and faster way to relay data. For a long time, copper cables were the preferred (and only!) option to connect households to an ISP. But with the introduction of fiber optic cables, ISPs have begun adapting to the better and faster fiber optic system.

Explained: 8 Important VPN Features and How They Work

Fawad Ali — Sun, 07 Aug 2022 19:30:14 GMT

If you are using a VPN service or planning to get one, there are certain features you need to understand to make the most of it. Some of these features are just marketing gimmicks and VPN providers often rename them to make them sound more sellable. But there are other features that form the core of a VPN, and it’s important to ensure that they function well.

8 Key Questions You Must Ask When Buying a New Wireless Router

Alvin Wanjala — Tue, 02 Aug 2022 19:21:14 GMT

Buying a new wireless router can be overwhelming—there are hundreds of options, and new ones are released all the time. Sorting through all of the information can take days. But if you know the right questions to ask, the process will be much easier, and you'll be happy with your purchase.

What Is a Deep Link? How Does a Deep Link Work?

Johnathan Jaehnig — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 15:00:14 GMT

You might not know "deep links" by name, but you've almost certainly used them before. This digital navigation tool can be used to make content more accessible or less accessible. It can be a boring click-farming gadget or used in some really creative ways.

Mac Malware, Fraudulent Crypto Apps, Boost Your Wi-Fi Speed, and Fix PC Bottlenecks

Christian Cawley — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 10:30:13 GMT

We've got some big computer security news for macOS users this week, an FBI warning about fraudulent crypto apps, and a look at Samsung's new folding phones. We talk about how you can increase Wi-Fi speed up to five times with a single fix, and learn about PC bottlenecking.

How to Find Your Router's IP Address

Megan Ellis — Wed, 20 Jul 2022 13:05:15 GMT

While your router's IP address isn't need-to-know information on most days, there will be times you need to have it on hand.

How to Boost Your Wi-Fi Speed Up to 5x With One Quick Fix

Gavin Phillips — Tue, 19 Jul 2022 21:55:13 GMT

Tired of your slow Wi-Fi connection? You might be paying for a 100Mbps broadband plan, but your actual broadband and Wi-Fi connection speeds are a fraction of that, and you feel like you're wasting money. Not only that, you're wasting time, as downloading even basic files takes 20 times longer than it should!There is a great and easy fix for a slow Wi-Fi connection: change your Wi-Fi channel. You can apply this fix to your 2.4GHz and 5GHz connections, and you should see an immediate speed boost on both Wi-Fi bands.

What Is HTTP/3? How Does It Compare to HTTP/2?

Jayric Maning — Mon, 18 Jul 2022 10:15:14 GMT

In the past, the public primarily used web browsers to enter chatrooms and visit blog sites. Today, web browsing has become a place to watch 4K videos, edit photos, play games, shop, bank, work, and so much more.

Wi-Fi Extenders vs. Powerline Adapters: What's Better for Poor Wireless Signals?

Gavin Phillips — Wed, 29 Jun 2022 21:55:14 GMT

Poor Wi-Fi signal is something that affects us all sooner or later. Unfortunately, it can be hard to diagnose the exact cause, and there are many possible solutions—but if none of them work, where do you go next?

What Is Gigabit Ethernet? 3 Reasons You Need It (and 2 Reasons You Don't!)

Sarah Chaney — Mon, 27 Jun 2022 18:30:14 GMT

Nowadays, fast internet is everything. Even if you're the only person in your home, fast internet is necessary for streaming media, playing video games, or balancing multiple devices over one internet connection. And if you live with multiple people, the need for a speedy connection is even greater.