As home networking technologies become more affordable and more popular, this new edition of a bestseller introduces readers to the basics of home networking Walks readers through sharing printers or an Internet connection across several computers and explains how game consoles, televisions, and stereos can also be networked Discusses all of the important aspects of having a home network, including planning and installing the network, security, and maintenance This new edition covers Windows XP Service Pack 2 (a significant update for security, compatibility, stability, wired and wireless networking, and broadband changes) and pays special attention to the Windows Firewall Topics include choosing and installing hardware, file sharing, sharing an Internet connection, security, Wi-Fi, and network maintenance

From the Back Cover

Integrate a Vista PC into your existing XP network

Share the Internet and work more efficiently from anywhere in your home!

Ready to become the administrator of your own home network? This bestselling guide has been fully updated to walk you through all the newest options in wired and wireless networking. From planning to installation to maintenance, all steps are explained in plain English to help you connect computers, share files and printers, and lock out any snoops!

Kathy Ivens, Senior Contributing Editor for Windows & .NET Magazine, has been a computer consultant since 1984. She has installed hundreds of corporate and private networks.

Plan and install your network

Configure computer sharing

Manage users and profiles

Make your network secure

Retrieve data when disaster strikes

Connect other devices to your network
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edition.