You may have noticed different Internet plans have different prices, and the difference between the packages is the speed. But they may not explain it. So what is Internet speed? Read on.
What is Internet speed?
Servers and Networking
Cheap home server options
If you have a large collection of music or movies, it’s nice to have a server to put it on. And having a server lets you do some other cool stuff too. But if you’ve priced an enterprise server, it might scare you off. Let’s talk about cheap home server options.
Do I need a managed switch at home?
Like most people, I used consumer-grade switches on my home network for years and years, like TP-Link switches. They’re fine, but my older Linksys switch started acting flaky the other night. My oldest son’s computer kept dropping off the network. So that got me thinking. Do I need a managed switch at home?
Whether I need a managed switch for my home network or not, I bought a Dell Powerconnect 2824 smart managed switch, and I got it for less than a Linksys. This is a great opportunity to learn wired networking at home, the way businesses do it. Sure, it’s overkill, but here’s why I think it’s a good idea.
How far can you run an Ethernet cable?
How far can you run an Ethernet cable? The limit is around 90-100 meters. You can generally push that limit harder with CAT6 than with CAT5e, and there are ways you can cheat. Here’s how.
You may be able to buy an Ethernet cable longer than 100 meters, but don’t assume that just because you can buy one that it will work.
Fast Ethernet vs Gigabit Ethernet
You may hear the words Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet thrown around a lot, and it can raise some questions. Which one is faster? Which is better? How can one compare Fast Ethernet vs Gigabit Ethernet? Despite the name, Gigabit Ethernet is faster than Fast Ethernet. Here’s why you need to care about the difference.
Hosting your own web server at home
Hosting your own web server at home isn’t for everyone, but I’ve been doing it for the better part of two decades now. I think it’s good operational experience. My stories of running my own web server get mixed reactions at work, but some people certainly take interest in my experience dealing with it, especially since such stories tend to be rare from a security professional. I think hosting my own web server helps me stay in touch with the rest of the IT world.
Is TP-Link good?
You’ve probably seen TP-Link network equipment on computer store shelves, but it’s possible you’ve never bought any. TP-Link hasn’t been around as long as other brands, after all. But I don’t blame you for wondering: Is TP-Link good?
I like their stuff and recommend it. Here’s why.
Is powerline networking safe?
Is powerline networking safe? It may sound strange to send computer networking signals down the same wire you use to get electricity. Here’s what you need to know.
Is 802.11ac faster than gigabit Ethernet?
If you’ve been shopping around for 802.11ac gear, you might wonder about the print on some of the boxes. Is 802.11ac faster than gigabit Ethernet?
Yes, sometimes it can be. But it’s probably not hurting you too badly just yet.
Netgear vs TP-Link
If you’re looking for the pros and cons of Netgear vs TP-Link, I have experience with both and I’m glad to share it.
Netgear is a well established brand, having been on the market since 1996.
I don’t blame you if you’ve never heard of TP-Link. They were founded in 1996 but if you were buying their stuff before 2005, you’re well ahead of me. But I like them a lot.
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