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DYNAMIC ADDRESS
This is the address
assigned to you by your ISP (internet service provider) and is unique to
your computer or router. Typically, if you are on a dial up connection,
this address will change each time you connect to the internet. This
type of connection is called a dynamic IP address. The IP is given to
your computer from a batch of available numbers at the time you connect.
DSL and cable modems
connect in the same manner, obtaining a unique WAN IP address when they
connect. Since DSL and cable are normally "always on", your IP address
may not change for months. Your IP address may change only if you change
your connection password or disconnect for an extended period of time.
STATIC ADDRESS
Another type of
connection for dial up, DSL, or cable is called a static IP address.
This is a requested option at the time you enroll with your ISP. There
is usually an additional charge for a static IP address. The advantage
of static over dynamic IPs is that you receive the exact same address
each time you connect. If you are hosting any service on your computer
(web pages, FTP server, etc.) a static address allows your computer to
be located easily at all times.
ROUTERS, INTERNET
SHARING AND LOCAL AREA NETWORKS
Wired 4 computer (port) router
If you are connecting
through a router, the IP address above is that of the device your
are connecting through. A router can be used to connect one to several
hundred computers in a residential or office environment. The router
connects to the internet in the same way an individual computer does,
and then "shares" the connection with the computers that are connected
to the router. If you have several computers in your home and have DSL
or cable, a router can allow them all to use the internet simultaneously
with only the one IP address. Routers connect each computer to a LAN
(local area network) though a RJ45 jack on the back of your computer.
Another advantage beyond internet sharing between computers on the LAN
is the ability to share other resources such as files and printers.
The router is
configured with your user name and password (provided by your ISP) by
typing a LAN address into your web browser location bar. A web page that
is imbedded in your routers software appears and allows you to easily
program information and router functions. The router will also play
"traffic cop" on your LAN by assigning your computer (and all additional
LAN computers) a unique LAN IP address. The router function that assigns
your computer a LAN IP address is called DHCP
(Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol).
Your LAN IP address is
different than your WAN IP address. The LAN address is typically
192.168.1.xxx. "xxx" will change and be unique for each computer on your
LAN.
A Security Labs
internet ready DVR can be connected to a LAN
and accessed by your computer to view your video cameras. It can also be
accessed on the internet (WAN), allowing you to view your DVR and
cameras anywhere in the world.
Wireless routers
connect computers without running CAT5 (category 5 cable that contains 4
twisted pair wires) or similar cable throughout your home or office. A
wireless card is installed in your computer or laptop and the connection
is made to the router through antennae on the card. Wireless technology
is typically called WIFI or 802.11. Wireless speed and stability is
constantly changing. Currently 802.11G is the fastest technology. "Blue
Tooth" is another short range wireless protocol for connecting your
computer, cell phone, PDA together for data transfers.
Wireless router
Wireless laptop card
Wireless desktop computer card
Images courtesy
Linksys. You can view their products
here.
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