We had a question sent to us via email asking about the difference between a modem and a router. Most people know that both pieces somehow move or transmit data, but they are not sure just how or which does what part of the function. The main difference between a modem and a router is that a modem transmits information from the "outside" (a phone line or cable line) to the computer and the router then takes the information from the modem's connection and "routes" (forwards or shares) it to one or more computers.

Modems

The modem allows the computer (or PC) to connect to the user's Internet Service Provider (ISP). The ISP can be a cable company or phone company and the choice for the user may depend on required speed, price, or personal preference. Essentially, the modem connects the computer to an outside line by translating the signals sent to and from the computer into information the computer can use.

Routers

The router is the device that then functions as an interface between two networks to forward the information between the ISP's router and the computer, based on IP addresses. This information is usually referred to as data packets. Routers function between two or more networks and communicate with one another to distribute information to the correct computer or server.

Selecting an external hard drive should be a painless, straightforward process. The hard drives used externally are typically the same units that are used inside of your desktop or laptop computer, so the factors to consider are similar to those you would consider with a regular internal drive. And of course, there are a couple of extra issues to consider because of the external nature of the device.

Size

We all know size matters, of course, but because large drives are very affordable now, other factors matter more. Get yourself a drive that has at least 3-4 times the capacity of the data you would like to store on it. Your storage needs will increase as time goes on and you need to leave yourself some room to grow.

Price

Storage has never been cheaper! These days you can get tons of space without breaking the bank and the prices are only getting better and better as time goes on. You can get large quality drives for under $100 so don't overpay.

Warranty

This is a big one. Make sure you get at least a 3 year warranty, 5 years is even better. Be wary of any drives that only have a 1 year warranty.

Speed

If you are primarily using the drive for backup purposes, 5400 rpm drives are perfectly fine. If, on the other hand, you are planning on running programs off the drive and using it for day-to-day usage, 7200 rpm drives can offer a nice speed increase (20% is typical).

Cache Size

Your drive's performance will be directly related to the rotational speed and the cache size. Larger cache will give you better performance...but if performance is not high on your list of priorities, don't bother paying more for larger cache or higher speed.

Connectivity

USB 2.0 and Firewire are your only 2 real options here. What you should get depends on the interface your computer has. If you have both firewire and USB, go for a drive with firewire for slightly better performance.

Reliability

Since you'll be storing your critical data on it, you want it to last. Stick to the name brands and do some research online before you buy your drive. Check out sites with customer reviews such as amazon.com, epinions.com and cnet.com and see what other people are saying. You should be able to quickly get a clear picture of a drive's quality.

Enclosure/Form Factor/Beauty

Decisions in this realm really depend upon your needs and personal preference. Full size drives (3.5") can be less expensive, but they will require more space on your desktop and AC power to run. Compact drives (2.5") can fit in your pocket and often times are powered by the USB or firewire cable (no AC adapter needed). These days you can get drives in all sorts of different shapes and colors, but really this should one of the last factors affecting your decision.

Once you have considered all of these factors, you should be able purchase an external drive with confidence.

Getting rid of spyware can be made easier if you know what tools to use. This post is your resource for spyware removal. Generally speaking, the way to remove spyware is by installing a removal tool. There are a number of tools that you can install that will scan your computer and remove offending programs but they fall into the following categories:

1. Identification and Removal

The identification and removal tools are good comprehensive methods for spyware removal.   They scan, quarantine. and remove spyware for you.  There are free and pay tools available.

Free

Avast
Ad-Aware
Windows Defender
Spybot Search and Destroy

Pay

PC Tools Spyware Doctor
Prevx
Sunbelt CounterSpy
Sunbelt Vipre
Webroot Spy Sweeper

2. Prevention

These tools/methods are for stopping spyware from getting on to your computer.  Follow the links below to learn more about what programs to download and instructions to follow.

Spyware Blaster
Spyware block list file
Browser Host file configuration
Privoxy Proxy server using a Block List file

3. Informational/Insight

For advanced users, these tools can scan your system and point out vulnerable areas in your system.  With this information, you can make deletions or changes manually.  With more research, you can learn if the items the tools produced are indeed malicious and you can remove them yourself.  This method can be more thorough than a removal tool.

CWShredder
Hijackthis
Process Explorer
ProcessScanner
Security Task Manager
Winpatrol
X-raypc

Protecting users from the dangers of the internet who connect via Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs) and Wi-Fi requires several layers of security.

First of all, users should choose a strong administrator password for their router. This ensures that anyone directly accessing the router’s configuration settings will be challenged. If a user gains access over these important settings they can essentially hack into your computer, which is not good… Most routers default passwords are generally weak, if there is one at all. Most routers have an option to reset to default factory settings, in case you forget your password. A strong password helps to ensure that your private information is safe.

Another way of protecting yourself is by disabling remote administration on your router. Remote administration settings allow internet users to connect to connect to and change router settings. Unless you have a very specific need for this option to be turned on, it is a good idea to disable this option. You can alter these settings through your router’s admin panel, which you should be able to find under Start > Programs.

Lastly, users can protect themselves by changing their default SSID or Service Set Identifier. The SSID is the name of your network. Most routers have a default name such as “Linksys” or “Netgear”. You should change this name to a robust combination of letters and numbers. Your SSID should never contain any personal information such as your name or address.

Follow these steps to change your SSID.

By employing these layers of security, you can be sure that your network will be protected from outside threats.