Broadband Internet Connections: A User's Guide to DSL and Cable - Softcover

Now, there's a definitive hands-on guide to broadband Internet access for every home and small business user. Roderick Smith covers all you need to know to make the most of your high-speed connection, from basic configuration to running servers -- including practical guidance on securing your connection against hackers. Smith begins with an overview of each leading broadband technology, and its key advantages and drawbacks. In addition to DSL and cable modems, he also covers fiber optic, satellite, and wireless broadband solutions. He demonstrates how to configure your computer to use broadband connections, covering both hardware and software interfaces, presenting details for Windows, MacOS, and Linux systems. The book contains a full chapter on broadband applications, as well as detailed troubleshooting coverage. Next, Smith shows how to use your broadband connection to run a server -- including how to get a domain name; set up mail, Web, and game servers; and permit secure logins from remote systems. For every home and small business considering -- or already using -- a high-speed Internet connection.

If you are considering or already have a broadband Internet connection for your home or small business, this complete, accessible handbook tells you all you need to know. It provides a readable overview of available broad-band technologies, focusing on DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) and cable, and shows how to access the latest, most innovative Internet applications, such as streaming audio and video, interactive games, videoconferencing, and high-speed downloads. You will also get a look at such up-and-coming technologies as fiber-optic, satellite, and wireless broadband.

This book explains basic broadband configuration, demonstrating in detail how to configure your system to get the most out of it. You will also find extensive information on running a broadband server and sharing a broadband connection among several networked computers. Because broadband systems are constantly connected to the Internet, security issues are even more pressing than they are with a regular dial-up modem. Broadband Internet Connections provides a pragmatic guide to Internet security by addressing such important topics as assessing risk and methods, and tools for reducing risk.

Specific topics covered include:

Comparing advantages and drawbacks of DSL and cable

Drivers, IP addresses, DHCP, and PPPoE for broadband

The specifics of Windows, MacOS, and Linux configuration

Using broadband connections for Internet telephony, games, videoconferencing, and more

Performance tuning and troubleshooting broadband connections

Obtaining a domain name

Broadband management of e-mail, Web servers, and game servers

Remote access with broadband: SSH, FTP, SMB/CIFS, NFS, Telnet, X servers, and VNC

NAT and conventional routers for networked computers

Establishing and maintaining Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)

Firewalls, accounts, passwords, and other security tools and methods

In addition to comprehensive and practical explanations, Broadband Internet Connections provides numerous tips, warnings, and notes to enhance your knowledge and skill and enable you to set up and utilize a successful broadband connection.

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