Book Description
- This ultra-cool volume invites readers to tap into your inner geek and build seventeen ultra-cool wireless devices including a solar powered access point, a wireless picture frame that dynamically changes its own photos, and even a wireless car-to-car audio and video system
- With a few simple tools, some off-the-shelf parts, and this book, readers will be creating wireless devices they never thought were possible-toys that certainly can't be found at the local computer store
- Written by the cofounder and members of the Southern California Wireless Users Group, this book provides readers with hands-on instruction and insider tips and tricks from those who are on the bleeding edge of wireless technology
- New addition to the ExtremeTech line of books-books for serious technophiles
Download Description
This ultra-cool volume invites readers to tap into your inner geek and build seventeen ultra-cool wireless devices including a solar powered access point, a wireless picture frame that dynamically changes its own photos, and even a wireless car-to-car audio and video system With a few simple tools, some off-the-shelf parts, and this book, readers will be creating wireless devices they never thought were possible-toys that certainly can't be found at the local computer store Written by the cofounder and members of the Southern California Wireless Users Group, this book provides readers with hands-on instruction and insider tips and tricks from those who are on the bleeding edge of wireless technology New addition to the ExtremeTech line of books-books for serious technophiles
Customer Reviews:
Rehash of stuff from the web.......2007-02-15
More up-to-date info is on the web for free.
Not that good...........2006-08-15
Bought the book with higher expectations; it only does an introductory job into the field of WiFi, containing and gathering info you can readily find over the net, and does it half way. Would only recommend it to someone with no particular knowledge in the field, who knows what Wifi is, but has no clue after that. Could make a nice gift for a 12 yr old tecky
A must have!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.......2006-05-12
This book is excellent, a must have. This book gives you the all the basic theory you are going to need to undertand wireless, and of course Cool Proyects.
Excellent book.......2005-08-27
This is a book for those who have a little bit o' cash, a little bit o' time and a little bit o' tinkering skills. The projects are easy and useful.
EXCELENT BOOK - EASY TO FOLLOW - BRILLIANT A+++.......2005-07-28
I have been toying with the potentual of Wifi and its various applications over the last 12 months. This book illuminated areas that i never thought were possible to the average person.
Within one week of the arrival of WIFI toys i had begun building a WIFI hotspot in my area using the details in Chapter 10 - Creating a free wireless hotspot. The hardest part of it was setting up the Linux system (Linux is free!!) but after following the instructions and purchasing a few inexpensive parts on Ebay i had a hotspot running for all my neighbours.
The antenna pages are superb and make it easy to follow and build out of next to nothing. Range extension, Selfpowered repeaters (yes you heard that right).
I even loved the final chapter 15 - Making a wireless Digital picture frame (Woww - cheap and easy).
overall this is a fantastic book with tons of insight into the mysterious and invisible world that surrounds us every day. Weather your into Wardriving (searching for wifi) or building cool toys this book will make you the envy of the neighbourhood when you drive down the road with wireless video link between you and your freind car.
Great book, well worth the read.
Book Description
Get official exam preparation for the all-new Wireless# Exam PWO-050
Authorized by the exam developers at the CWNP program, this study guide thoroughly covers all the topics on the entry-level Wireless# certification exam. Work at your own pace through a system of lessons, scenarios, and review questions to learn the material quickly and easily.
Wireless# Certification Official Study Guide will help you prepare for the exam as well as learn the basics of many wireless technologies. You'll learn, step-by-step, how to implement, troubleshoot and maintain small and medium-sized wireless networks. Get the only official study guide authorized by the creators of the Wireless# exam and get started in a career in wireless IT.
Maximize your performance on the exam by learning:
-
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, WiMAX, ZigBee, Infrared, RFID, and VoWLAN
-
Wireless hardware, software, and installation
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Wireless security, applications, and support
-
Wireless organizations, standards, and protocols
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Radio frequency (RF) technologies
Complete Exam Coverage
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Comprehensive details on all Wireless# exam objectives
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Review questions modeled after the real exam
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Helpful chapter summaries and key term lists
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Vendor-neutral coverage of wireless technologies and equipment
Customer Reviews:
Very Concise and Clear.......2007-06-25
I am currently still reading this book, and I am planning on getting my certification. The book is written in a very concise, clear and easy to understand manner. Everything is explained with clear examples: every concept explained is easily grasped, and the details fall nicely into place. This is by far the best written manual/study guide I have seen on the subject.
Wireless# Certification Official Study Guide.......2006-10-04
This is a good book. The book provides an excellent overview of all of the technologies on the Wireless# exam it also serves as an excellent reference guide. I passed the Wireless# exam using this book and I have frequently returned to this text follow reference material during the course of my work.
Wireless#.......2006-09-22
This is a well written book, it held my interest though the whole book I never had to force myself to read like some tech books. It not only helped me pass my wireless# exam but I believe that it helped me pass my Network+ exam also.
Fantastic introduction to Wireless.......2006-08-24
I took the Wireless# exam today and passed after using this excellent book. The book is extremely well written and easy to follow. Even if you already know Wi-Fi pretty well, chances are you might not know a lot about all the other wireless standards out there. As a previous reviewer said, this book gives you a nice broad introduction to all the major wireless technologies currently in use. The information is highly current as the book just came out this year. I recommend taking the exam, as preparing for that will ensure that you have a good grasp of the contents of this book. Even if you are already a CWNA, it's still worth reading this book. Be warned though that the exam expects you to have thorough knowledge of all the standards described in the book including relevant frequencies, ranges, etc. I recommend the practice tests on the CWNP site if you intend to take the exam. In short I highly recommend this book for anyone trying to get a grasp of all things wireless.
GREAT place to start in the wireless field.......2006-08-03
I just passed the Wireless# test today with a really good score. Before taking the test, I read every page of this book. It also has very good questions (with answers explained) at the end of each chapter. If you have a desire to work in the wireless field, but have no real experience yet, the chapters on wireless security, installation, troubleshooting and optimization really give you a head start towards that experience!
Sure you can find a study guide that will just barely give you enough information to pass the test. If you would rather have more information behind the meat, this book is for you. Some of this material was new to me, so I wanted to really know the subjects before taking the test. Besides, this book is the official study guide for the Wireless# test by the CWNP program.
This book (and certification) really is a mile wide and a couple of inches deep. Great place to start in the wireless field. After that, you're really set to start with your CWNA study and test. Now you're getting into a subject that is only a half mile wide, and many more feet deep. CWSP is even smaller but much deeper.
Good luck and have fun!
Book Description
Having a network in your home increases work efficiency and minimizes confusion. If you want to set up a network in your home but you’re not quite sure where to start, then Home Networking for Dummies makes it easy for you to become your household’s network administrator. Now fully updated with information on the newest technology in networking available, this quick and to-the-point walkthrough will show you how to install Web connections in your entire home, whether by wires, cables, or WiFi. This resourceful guide illustrates:
- Planning and installing your network
- The differences between Ethernet cable, phone lines, and wireless technology
- Configuring computer sharing
- Setting up and managing users
- Installing, managing, and troubleshooting the network printer
- Understanding UNC format, mapping drives, and traveling on the network
- Working with remote files
- Securing your network from viruses, spyware, and other baddies
Along with the basics, this book introduces fun ways to use your network, including sharing music, keeping shopping lists, creating photo albums, setting up a family budget, and instant messaging. It also provides ways to keep your network safe for kids, such as talking to your child about the Internet, creating site filters, and ISP E-mail filtering features. With this trusty guide your home will be fully connected and you’ll be working more efficiently in no time!
Download Description
* 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
Customer Reviews:
Build Your Own Network.......2007-04-04
Everything from cables to equipment, this book will walk you through the process of getting your home network set up.
Very Good Basic Overview.......2007-03-26
This new fourth edition of Ms. Ivens best selling book has been expanded to cover the new Windows Vista operating system which has major changes and is up to date on Windows XP Service Pack 2 which again made changes in areas like security that could effect how your network runs.
This is a basic introductory book that begins with what a network is and why you might need one. It starts with simple things like cables and NICs and goes on from there to start talking about the software, using Windows XP and Vista. (No Linux discussion.)
It seems to me that there are three main reasons for having a home network: sharing printers, sharing files, and sharing a high speed internet connection. Chapter 9 is titles Printing Across the Network. Chapter 11 is Using Files from Other Computers.
There's a little bit here and there on sharing an internet connection, but Ms. Ivens, should you read this, I suggest that in your Fifth edition you put in a special chapter on connecting to DSL/Cable. You can explain about the need for a high speed modem, a router/switch, etc. Yes, I know, the material for this is basically there, but a single chapter tieing it all together would be a help.
Disorganized overview of home networking........2006-06-11
Agree with a previous reviewer. Ms. Ivens' approach is disorganized and lacking in any cogent, "how-to" information. The book does provide a good overview of what home networks are, and why an individual may want a home network. But I was looking for a complete "how-to" book that would provide information on how to use what I already own. That is, I am a moderately proficient PC and Mac user. I already have a desktop PC (WinXP, wired) and Mac notebook (OS-X, wireless) which both utilize the same wireless router to access my broadband connection. I purchased this book because I wanted was a way to network the two devices to share files and a printer. This book did not provide that information.
All The Right Info.......2002-10-31
I opened this book as soon as it arrived and started following the well-done, easy to understand, instructions. I was able to connect all the computers in my house into a network. My 12 year old son worked with me, and by following all the steps in the book we were able to move files between computers, print using the same printer, and all 3 people in the household got on the internet at the same time.
I've never seen such clear, easy to follow, instructions about hardware and software settings, which usually scare me.
Perfect.......2002-10-25
This book does exactly what the title implies, it shows how to network your home computers. The hints about cabling and the well illustrated directions for installing hardware made it impossible to fail. I had a home network up and going in about an hour, and since then I carried this book to friends' homes and installed their networks. You could start a business with the help of this book.
Book Description
·Describes the costs, benefits and necessity of networking ·Reviews software networking tools that save money for small-time operators ·Summarizes business expenses and savings to help a prospective user choose their office setup ·Offers criteria for deciding on distribution media ·Compares wireless versus wired connections ·Includes important, practical information about security, viruses, and backing up
Customer Reviews:
The complete guide.......2003-09-05
If you are setting up, administering, or just want to learn about WiFi networks this is the perfect book. The book covers everything from terminology through security and down to products needed. I was amazed to find also find product descriptions and best buys included which saved me a bundle. I found this book extremely informative. The text supplied the knowledge to secure my current network from intrusion and gave details of why, when and how. If you have been searching for a book for beginners and advanced users this is the book. I was impressed that the authors delivered so much information in an easily understood format while maintaining the interest of IT professionals like me who have been in the field for years. Overall just a great book. Thanks for demonstrating that IT can be accessible for everyone!
Wi-Fi Home Networking by Raymond Smith.......2003-02-22
What a helpful book! I abhor manuals because of all the techno-language. This book is direct and easy to understand.
Problem Solver.......2003-02-15
Wi-Fi solves a lot of problems for us at home. Once we got cable internet, we could use the Wi-Fi station to hook everyone into it. It seems just as fast for all of us as for one. We only have one printer, but now everyone can print to it. And the phone line is available instead of being tied up by the modem in the evening, which is when everyone wanted to use it. We're never going back.
Excellent Home Networking Primer.......2003-02-12
I'm glad I got this book because I didn't know you could do all that stuff that he talks about. It's pretty simple the way he puts it and not too technical to read. It's not about rocket science. I set up my network at home and it works well. You can tell this guy's done it for real. Definitely worth the money.
Don't start without first reading this book!.......2003-02-07
Wi-Fi was a scary step - but now that we've got it, we'll never be tied down to wires again. We are so glad we started out by first reading this book. It explains in PLAIN English what you should know BEFORE investing money and hard work. The detailed illustrations and CD really helped. The glossary alone is worth the price of the book. And the author's easy style of writing makes the technical stuff easy to understand. Definitely read this book before you get started.
Book Description
The first edition of this book has quickly become the best-selling guide for Wi-Fi users around the world. Master technical author, Jeff Duntemann, makes tangled Wi-Fi technological issues very comprehensible. Jeff explains the blizzard of Wi-Fi concepts and standards, including the new 802.11g, the complex and fluky security issues, and shows users how to protect themselves from both obvious and non-obvious threats. He also covers the human element in the Wi-Fi movement, including hacker threats and Wi-Fi communities. Jeff's coverage of wardriving has been highly praised by many Wi-Fi experts and the top Wi-Fi Web sites. Many technical drawings clarify difficult concepts, with abundant Web pointers to further information. The book features numerous hands-on projects that can dramatically increase the performance of home and small business Wi-Fi systems. Some of the important and new topics covered in the book include:
- Money-saving Wi-Fi network design and implementation techniques
- Wi-Fi communities
- Access points and gateways
- Security and privacy
- Wireless security auditing with WarLinux and Kismet
- The art of wardriving
- How to create powerful low-cost antennas
- How to protect yourself against clever hackers
Customer Reviews:
Best overall Wi-Fi Guide written............2007-04-11
Bold statement, I know, but in my opinion Jeff has done what many have not been able to do in the past; develop a guide that is both easy to follow and very complete. I would not hesitate to recommend this guide to my IT guys as well as someone looking to learn about Wi-Fi that may not even know where to start. Both would find this guide book the most valuable book on their shelf.
Masterful.......2006-01-12
One of the most comprehensive guides I've found to date. Easy to follow with excellent detail, offering explanations for various methods. A bright light for Wi-Fi instruction, it's an extraordinary volume. Both the novice and expert alike, would certainly find benefit from it well structured format.
Very Useful Book.......2005-09-01
Jeff has put together a extremely useful guide to wireless networking. It is well organized, allowing quick access to specific topics, and broad enough to cover most relevant issues for smaller (and maybe some medium sized) networks. He wisely discusses that which is truly important, avoiding complexity when it is not needed.
There is a considerable amount of practical advice, product information and helpful hints regarding installation, setup and security.
This is not likely very usable for a novice, but would be helpful for anyone who has at minimum a basic understanding of networks.
One of the best Wi-Fi guides
One of the best Wi-Fi guides.......2004-09-26
It's a toss-up for me between this book and O'Rielly's "Wi-Fi Hacks" book. Both books have up-to-date, well written content. The Hacks books is organized more aggressively into a set form that may or may not appeal to you. This book has a more traditional topic based organization.
Topics include antenna coverage and construction, operating system information and coverage of the different types of Wi-Fi security that are available.
I recommend this book for anyone serious about building their own Wi-Fi networks. I don't recommend this book, or O'Reilly Hacks, for someone just looking for how to get their computer on a wireless network. For that I would recommend a book specific to their operating system.
A "must-read" for Wi-Fi networking.......2004-08-29
Whether you're a newbie or a WiFi master, this book has something for you.
Jeff does a great job of taking the subject of Wi-Fi networking and breaking it down into basic, easy to understand elements. This book is a `must-read' for anyone interested in learning the ins and outs of the Wi-Fi world.
Average customer rating:
- New to Wi-Fi? 802.11 hobbyist? This is the book for you!
- This is the book
- This book is awesome for all wi-fi users
- Duntemann Does It Again!
- Best book on the market for non-Network Engineer/SysAdmins
|
Jeff Duntemann's Drive-By Wi-Fi Guide
Jeff Duntemann
Manufacturer: Paraglyph Press
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Similar Items:
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Wi-Fi Toys: 15 Cool Wireless Projects for Home, Office, and Entertainment
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Jeff Duntemann's Wi-Fi Guide, Second Edition
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Hacking For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech))
ASIN: 1932111743 |
Book Description
This book consists of many short, focused topic features that answer all the typical questions newcomers ask, such as "how does this work? how do I do it?" without losing the reader or a sense of humor. Duntemann explains the complex security issues clearly, and shows how users can protect themselves from both obvious and non-obvious threats. He expands the blizzard of WiFi acronyms and touches on the human element in the WiFi movement, including hacker threats and WiFi weirdness. The unique FAQ-index feature allows readers to zero in on precisely what they need to know without plowing through unrelated text. Many technical figures clarify difficult concepts, with abundant Web pointers to further information.
Customer Reviews:
New to Wi-Fi? 802.11 hobbyist? This is the book for you!.......2003-06-07
I was given this book as a gift of appreciation for contributing news items to Netstumbler.com. I highly recommend this book for beginners interested in further understanding their home network or extending its range and having fun with Wi-Fi.
The first part of the book is an introduction to Wi-Fi and its applications. The second part of the book shows you how to hook up a network in your home. The third part covers the theoretical and practical details of security. The fourth part deals with extending the range of your laptop and some of the secrets behind wardriving.
I liked the tin can bandwidth extender project section. It's just what you need in order to fire that over-priced cable or DSL connection and get your broadband service from one of the thousands of nearby Starbucks. The wardriving section shows you how to find access points from your car.
This is the book.......2003-04-26
This is a great book and it's clear the person writing wrote it because they love Wi-Fi and what it represents. Wi-Fi can be two things, it can be just another networking tech, or it can a lot more. It can be something to tinker with, a technology to burrow into and learn a lot more about, and it creates all sorts of new cool things you can do. Duntemann clearly sees it as the latter, a technology that opens up entire new worlds and geeky fun things to do. This book covers how to wardrive, how to build your own antennas, and more. At the same time he doesn't skimp on the 101 stuff either, taking the time to explain everything to even a n00b like myself.
If you're a net admin trying to learn more get this book.
If you're a power-user who wants to get the most out of Wi-Fi get this book.
If you're into Wi-Fi and know lots of stuff you should still get this book.
What more can I say? This book is for the beginner and for the master.
Also I've looked at the other books out there. A couple of them are pretty good too, but unlike some of them the fact that Duntemann is truly into this tech and not just writing about it shows through more than most of the others.
This book is awesome for all wi-fi users.......2003-04-19
I just recently came across this book because a friend suggested I get it. I've been using wi-fi for a little over a year now and I bought a number if the books that were published over the past year--big disapointment there. I was super gald to find this book because most of the other books were very academic and didn't really offer much.
What I like about this book is that it is very hands-on. And man this author can really write. This is one of the best technical books I have ever read. If I were a tech writer I'd really want to take lessons from this author.
The best part about the book is the hands-on projects and the chapter on War Driving. The Wi-fi reception in my house (I live in an older house) isn't great so I've been messing around with some of the projects in the book to improve my reception. The discussion of attennas is really first rate. I wish that I had more technical books that were written this well.
-Peter
Duntemann Does It Again!.......2003-03-28
Words cannot express how happy I am to be able to write a review for Jeff Duntemann's new book. I have "known" Jeff since around the early 1980's. Unfortunately, Jeff and I are both old enough to remember when correspondence outside of your office took place via snail mail and the most popular Internet tools of the time were Archie, Veronica and Gopher.
The things that I like the most about Jeff's books (and I have several of them) are twofold. First, when he writes on a topic he covers the given topic in-depth. With him, no stone is left unturned. Second, his writing style is such that he makes you feel as though you are sitting across the coffee table from him having a discussion while enjoying a cup of java or a glass of good (single barrel) Tennessee sour mash whiskey. His latest project does not disappoint!
If you are thinking of getting WLAN access for your home or small office, this book is for you. If you already have WLAN access at your home or small office and are interested in tweaking; tuning or expanding it, this book is for you. If you are mechanically inclined and want some WLAN projects to work on, this book is for you. If you are interested in wardriving, warchalking, setting up a hotspot or creating a captive portal, this book is for you. And (if you are like me) if you work with this technology for a living and want to pick up some pieces of technology that you were not aware of, this book is for you.
It is all there in the book and, once again, Jeff has done a great job of explaining it and making it all crystal clear. As I look around my office I have more than 30 books on wireless/WLAN technology. This book has now moved to the top of my list. Thanks Jeff and keep them coming!
Best book on the market for non-Network Engineer/SysAdmins.......2003-03-26
If computer networking or security is NOT your day job, but you are interested in, or have already setup a home/small-business WiFi network, BUY THIS BOOK!
This is the "...for Dummies" for WiFi, except it does not insult the intelligence like other introductory titles. The writing style is approachable, humorous and flows well. It assumes no prior networking knowledge, and takes us through the historic evolution to present-day WiFi.
It is accurate, covers security risks & responses and the captures the overall excitement in the "homebrew" & wardriving communities. (Excellent coverage of custom antenna's, theory & practice)
If you are an MCSE or CNE looking to certify for some sort of WiFi test - this is probably not the book for you.
... but if you are a home-user, small business owner or general "radio-tinkerer" excited by the potential of WiFi - BUY THIS BOOK!
Book Description
Wi-Fi Home Networking Just the Steps For Dummies is the way to go if you’re ready to go wireless and install your own wireless home network. The book’s easy-to-navigate design features two columns, with numbered step-by-step instructions on one side and corresponding illustrations, screen shots, or photos on the other. There’s no fluff, just the vital stuff—Just The Steps you need to get up to speed fast. This guide covers common networking tasks, including:
- Setting up wireless access points and configuring your network
- Adding wireless devices to your network
- Activating Wi-Fi Security, managing firewalls, and preventing unauthorized network users
You don’t have to leave WI-Fi behind when you leave home; this practical reference tells you how to find public hotspots where you can use your Wi-Fi-equipped portable computer and how to network wirelessly with your pocket PC. It covers practical applications like creating a network bridge or adding wireless network storage, plus fun ways to use your tech toys to integrate and enhance your digital life, such as:
- Setting up a wireless media center so you can use a computer for streaming media, as a TV tuner, as a digital video recorder, or to integrate with your TV and home entertainment system
- Turning your pocket PC into a remote control
- Adding a wireless camera to your network
Even if your current system with its cables, wires, and convoluted connections works, it’s time to cut the cord. Going wireless gives you many advantages and new options. So take the first step—get this book.
Download Description
Just the steps you need to design and install a wireless network Simple steps... ...for great results Search for Wireless Networks Double-click the wireless connection icon in the Windows system tray. n the Wireless Network Connection Status dialog box, shown in Figure 3-11, click the View Wireless Networks button. In the resulting Wireless Network Connectionwindow, shown in Figure 3-12, click RefreshNetwork List in the Network Tasks menu on the left side of the screen. Use the Wireless Network Connection window to manage your network connections. You can connect or disconnect from networks and change the order of preferred networks when more than one is available.
Customer Reviews:
Get the Briere book instead.......2006-08-27
There are two similar "Dummies" books, this one and Wireless Home Network for Dummies by Danny Briere (2006). This book is too dummied down, providing little over what you could find in the instruction manual of any router you would buy. And with all the screenshots and cartoons, the book seems padded to boot.
With the Briere book, you can read it and understand wireless networking. For instance, in explaining WEP and WPA-PSK encryption, the Briere book expains how both work and why WPA is much more secure than WEP. This book does mention that WPA is vastly superior to WEP, but doesn't explain why, and then proceeds to go through the steps in setting up WEP and then setting up WPA, as though you could do one right after the other (you can't).
Nicely done, and relieves a lot of anxiety..........2006-06-09
This is a book I wished I had known about and had available about 2 years ago when I made my plunge into wireless networking... Wi-Fi Home Networking Just the Steps For Dummies by Keith Underdahl. It would have saved me a ton of angst...
Contents:
Part 1 - Starting a Wireless Network: Setting Up Wireless Access Points; Configuring Your Network; Adding Wireless Devices to Your Network; Using Your Wireless Network; Wireless Networking with Your Mac
Part 2 - Securing Your Network: Activating Wi-Fi Security; Managing Firewalls and Network Security; Preventing Unauthorized Network Users
Part 3 - Improving Your Network's Performance: Monitoring Network Performance; Improving the Speed and Range of Your Network; Troubleshooting Network Problems
Part 4 - Using Someone Else's Network: Finding and Using Public Hotspots; Making Ad Hoc Peer-to-Peer Wireless Connections; Using Bluetooth Devices; Networking Wirelessly with Your Pocket PC
Part 5 - Practical Applications: Creating a Network Bridge; Networking a Game Console; Setting Up a Wireless Media Center; Adding Wireless Network Storage; Converting to a Digital Media Receiver; Turning Your Pocket PC into a Remote Control; Adding a Wireless Print Server to Your Network; Setting Up Your Own Hotspot; Voice Chatting With Your Wireless Network; Adding a Wireless Camera to Your Network
Index
The "Just the Steps" sub-genre of the Dummies series involves a lot less narrative and background and more "step 1, step 2" information to enable you to get things up and running without necessarily knowing the complete background and history of the technology. For instance, if you need to determine the MAC address for a device, it's spelled out in three easy steps, complete with screen prints. As a result, it's pretty easy for someone to figure out how to get their wireless environment up and running quickly (and correctly!) without a minor degree in computer networking. The book covers Windows, Macs, and Pocket PCs, so you're well covered there. The book specifically uses the D-Link brand of router for the screen captures and steps, but it's pretty easy to translate between that brand and some other one you might be using, like LinkSys. Still, if you want the closest "book to reality" linkage, the D-Link brand is the one to use.
The reason I would have liked this book a couple of years ago is that I was pretty "network-phobic" (even being a techie!). I didn't understand how it all worked, and I had observed situations with fellow techies setting up wireless networks that had convinced me I'd be over my head. With a book like this, I'd have been much more likely to dive in with less trepidation. While I'm more comfortable these days with the whole subject, I can still see the benefit of a book like this. The practical applications listed in part 5 gave me some ideas for a few projects I might consider.
Quick read, but really beneficial... Ideal if you're not yet convinced that wireless is the way to go (it is...)
Average customer rating:
- Adequate with Some Meritable Parts
- Solid end-user based introduction to WiFi and Bluetooth
- Not good enough
- Perfect for understanding Mac OS X and wireless tech
- Excellent Wireless Primer
|
Mac OS X Unwired: A Guide for Home, Office, and the Road
Tom Negrino , and
Dori Smith
Manufacturer: O'Reilly Media, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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Take Control of Your AirPort Network
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AirPort and Mac Wireless Networks For Dummies
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Mac OS X Tiger: Missing Manual
ASIN: 0596005083 |
Book Description
Mac OS X Unwired introduces you to the basics of wireless computing, from the reasons why you'd want to go wireless in the first place, to setting up your wireless network or accessing your wireless services on the road. The book provides a complete introduction to all the wireless technologies supported by Mac OS X, including Wi-Fi (802.11b and g), infrared, Bluetooth, CDMA2000, and GPRS. You'll learn how to set up your first wireless network and how use the Mac OS X software that supports wireless, such as iSync, iChat, and Rendezvous. You'll also get a good understanding of the limitations and liabilities of each wireless technology. Other topics covered in the book include:
- Using wireless at home, in the office, or on the road
- Connecting to wireless hotspots
- Wireless Security
Mac OS X Unwired is a one-stop wireless information source for technically savvy Mac users. If you're considering wireless as an alternative to cable and DSL, or using wireless to network computers in your home or office, this book will show you the full-spectrum view of wireless capabilities of Mac OS X, and how to get the most out of them.
Customer Reviews:
Adequate with Some Meritable Parts.......2005-02-06
I love the Mac, using it since System 4 (1989), and I wanted a good technical book on wireless technologies on Mac OS X. Naturally, I encountered this book seem to be the book that I needed. And I must say it does an adequate job, but I just don't find it all that exciting and I don't feel there's much value beyond basic information. I browsed Windows and Linux equivelent Unwired books, and those books are much more in-depth.
For getting a sense of what Wi-Fi products are available, this book is not enough. It mostly focuses on only Apple's wireless solutions, and not enough on third-party products that support the Mac. For example, there are 29 pages covering Airport Base Station, but a measely 3 pages for non-Apple wireless offerings. I was sorely disapointed in that.
For general Wi-Fi technologies and security (CHAP3 to CHAP5), it does a decent job. I like the security section, but I still felt there neaded to be more; for example, I wanted to know authentication protocols for WPA that Apple supports. This is useful in determining what products work with the Mac OS X, and also what OSes can work with the Airport BaseStation in regards to WPA features. In contrast, the Windows Unwired book even covers configuring a Radius server for use with WPA..., while the Linux Unwired has better nuts 'n bolts technical coverage of Airport Base station. Why can't Mac readers get the same coverage?
The blue-tooth chapter (CHAP6) was more exciting, and I felt they did a decent job covering cellphone synchronization and general Apple Bluetooth technologies. I do wish though they had more coverage of Bluetooth PDAs like Palm and PocketPC, with third party tools like MissingSync and PocketMac. More in-depth coverage of Bluetooth would be nice, e.g. file transfers especially with photos on the PDA, wireless headsets with the Mac, etc. The security coverage for Bluetooth was roughly a single page. I know there's more info. out there on this...
The other chapters (CHAP 7 to CHAP 9) I did not feel were much of value. Perhaps it is just my personal perference, but I am not much excited about RF and Infrared, or general cell phone technology. Maybe If my laptop could be a remote, that would be fun, but no such luck here...
There was a chapter on Rendezvous (CHAP 8), which is applicable to general networking technologies, but in the context of wireless, I did not feel this should have been in the book. I would have rather had the book focus more on core wireless technologies.
Lastly, I know it is hard to have a book that is technical enough, but doesn't scare away button-clicking users. My review is oriented toward expecting more advanced material for businesses, IT oriented people, or just advanced powerusers. This is what I felt the other Unwired books offered, and this book doesn't seem to keep pace with those.
Solid end-user based introduction to WiFi and Bluetooth.......2004-04-30
This is a fairly comprehensive, if brief, book on Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for Mac OS X. RF stuff is covered in an appendix at the end. From my read it's meant primarily for end-users. Advanced folks will probably get a tip here and there, but not much more.
Chapter by chapter; Chapter one is basic terminology and an overview. Chapter two covers Wi-Fi hardware. It does have a nifty fix for the Wi-Fi problems on the 15" TiBook. Chapter three covers base stations and antenas. Chapter four is a very brief look at Wi-Fi access from external sources, like Starbucks. The fifth, and last chapter on Wi-Fi, covers the basic protocol layer tools like SSH.
Chapter six covers Bluetooth, it's a good introduction but it's a little screenshot heavy. Chapter seven is on cell-phone connectivity, which is pretty cool new material. If you are serious about that you should get this book. Chapter eight is on rendevous and it's a nice, but short, introduction.
If you are just getting into Wi-Fi on Macintosh you should probably take a look at this book.
Not good enough.......2004-04-19
My purpose in buying and reading this book was to troubleshoot a Mac wireless problem: a Mac desktop G4 on a multiplatform home network (Mac, W2K, Red Hat Linux 9.0) that does not retain either the SSID or the WEP key in its wireless settings and therefore has to be reconfigured nearly every time it is booted. I am a network administrator by trade and support all three operating systems at work, but the Macs are work are on a wired network. No help there...and no help from this book, either. The book devotes all of three pages to non-Apple access points (mine is a Netgear ProSafe a/b/g firewall/switch/router on a 1.5 Mbps DSL connection) and offers no troubleshooting assistance for Macs trying to connect to such a device. In fact, the book is almost devoid of troubleshooting assistance. All does not always go well with wireless connectivity, even with Macs, and these authors seem unable or unwilling to admit that and deal with it. For an O'Reilly book, this one is a disappointment. It's not good enough if anything goes wrong.
A few months later: another problem with another Mac on the same protected wireless network. This time a brand-new PowerBook's built-in Airport Extreme could not connect to the router--couldn't even see it. This book was the first resource I turned to for troubleshooting, and again it was useless. One sentence in a newsgroup discussion provided the very simple answer, and both Macs are fine now.
Perfect for understanding Mac OS X and wireless tech.......2004-03-25
If only this book had been available when I started delving in wireless networking! While my network is simple - and getting the AirPort network up and running for my Macs was a breeze - it does involve a DSL modem, a switch, an AirPort base station acting as a bridge to a wired Ethernet network, and several computers, including PCs. I remember spending a fair amount of time when first setting it up to get everything working correctly, especially the link between the wired and wireless network. Negrino and Smith walk the reader through all the steps required to set up and configure an 802.11 network, and cover the sticky issues concerning IP addresses, DHCP addressing and many other acronyms that novice users may be unfamiliar with.
One of the strengths of this book is the authors' tone of voice. Negrino and Smith assume that the reader does not know a lot about the many protocols and acronyms used, and they explain these elements in a cool and patient manner. There is no talking down to the reader, nor is there any obfuscation. The explanations are clear and simple, and readers will be able to set up a wireless network - no matter how complex - with ease.
But the book goes beyond mere WiFi networking, with a thorough presentation of Bluetooth, cellular connectivity, Rendezvous and more. No matter which wireless technologies you want to use with Mac OS X, this book explains them in simple, non-geeky language.
As more people - even home users - have multiple computers, connecting them is the best way to leverage all their functions. Wireless networking is, as the authors say, "simple the most cost-effective and least obtrusive way to connect all of your computers." If you've been tempted by wireless networking, and have been hesitant, thinking that it's complex and complicated, invest in this book - it's the perfect toolkit for setting up all kinds of wireless networking with Mac OS X.
Excellent Wireless Primer.......2004-01-14
This book serves as a good primer into all the ways you can use your Mac without wires. WiFi, Bluetooth, GPRS, and even the old infrared standards are covered. If you haven't played with the wireless capabilities of your Mac, this book will help you explore them and get you on the web while sipping coffee at the corner shop. And even if you have played extensively with what your Mac can do without wires, you'll still find a few tidbits that you probably haven't run into before.
Average customer rating:
- David Weeks MyMac.com Book Review
|
Build Your Own Wi-Fi Network (Build Your Own...(McGraw))
Manufacturer: McGraw-Hill/OsborneMedia
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Wireless Networks
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ASIN: 0072226242 |
Book Description
Build a wireless network from start to finish using this easy-to-follow resource. Learn how to choose, install, and configure network cards for use in a new or existing network. Filled with step-by-step instructions, screenshots, and tips this is an ideal hands-on guide for anyone wanting to ditch the cables and have network and Internet access from any location.
Customer Reviews:
David Weeks MyMac.com Book Review.......2003-01-13
The popularity of the wireless networking of personal computers is rapidly growing, especially for laptop users. Wireless networking goes by several monikers; Apple calls it AirPort, many PC manufacturers call it Wi-Fi, and techies refer to its official name of 802.11b. Most business oriented hotels, and airport frequent-flyer lounges now provide Wi-Fi access, and boutique coffee shops are adding wireless networking to attract and keep customers.
If you want to share your Internet access at home between several computers, be they Macs or Windows machines, wireless networking is becoming more and more affordable. But there is often more to this technology than meets the eye. I have a Mac; do I have to buy Apple-branded equipment? What access point (the Base Station, in Apple-speak) do you buy? What wireless card do you buy? What about security?
Shelley Brisbin's Build Your Own Wi-Fi Network is aimed at end users wanting to learn more than just the basics of how to get your Wi-Fi up and running. Brisbin's extensive experience authoring computer books and articles (nine books and many articles) helps her to thoroughly cover the subject.
Will this book be useful to the average Macintosh owner who wants to go wireless, be it with Apple's AirPort equipment, or third-party hardware? At first glance, the distinctly Windows orientation of the book appeared to make it less-than-useful to Mac users. But Brisbin is careful to be fairly platform agnostic; each section includes Mac information. Since many wireless routers are configured via a web browser, the screen shots are perfectly useful to Mac users. Ironically, Apple's own AirPort Base Station is one of the few wireless access points not configured via a web browser!
If all you want is a quick and dirty overview of wireless networking, Build Your Own Wi-Fi Network may be a bit much. But if you want a basic grasp of the fundamentals of how 802.11b works, without being overwhelmed with too much information, Brisbin provides it. She is able to walk that fine line between too much and not enough detail. All aspects of wireless are covered, including sections on antennas, multiple access points, wireless-to-wired networking issues, and many more.
Build Your Own Wi-Fi Network covers what to look for in both access points, and wireless cards. Several brands are discussed. This kind of information is platform agnostic, so don't let the Windows screenshots and references dissuade you.
Brisbin devotes plenty of time to discuss wireless networking security in detail. Many wireless users are not aware of how exposed their networks can be. Even if they do, they don't know how to decide how much security to implement. The chapters on security are very valuable, and every purchaser of this book should read this section carefully. You may be more exposed than you think! Again, the information Brisbin provides is fully applicable to Macintosh users.
If you want a thorough grounding in wireless networking fundamentals, this book should be high on your list.
MacMice Rating: 4 out of 5
------------------------------------------------------------------------
David Weeks
Average customer rating:
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Connectivity: HomePlug offers a new networking solution.(The Digital Home) : An article from: Custom Home
Manufacturer: Thomson Gale
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ASIN: B000EDWOXO
Release Date: 2006-01-27 |
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