Before you proceed with these instructions, I recommend that you backup your router’s configuration file.

Software/Hardware used: D-Link Router DIR-655.

1. Log in to your router by visiting http://192.168.0.1 or the address you used when the router was configured. Click Tools then Firmware.

2. Click the Check Now button in the Firmware Information section on the page.

A. If you see the “This firmware is the latest version” message, I’d take it with a grain of salt. I’ve seen this many times even when new updates were available. The best thing to do is head over to the D-Link website and find your router (see below).

3. When you reach the product page, click the Firmware link on the right.

4. Scroll down the firmware list and find the latest version of the firmware. Make sure that it is newer than the one you are currently using (Step 2/A above). Click the Download button to begin downloading the new firmware version, save it to your computer.

5. Once the download is complete return to the D-Link router page and click the Choose File button.

6. Locate and select the file you just downloaded and click Open.

Note: Before you continue with the upload make sure that you are using a computer that is connected directly to the router, no wireless connections please.

7. Click Upload.

8. When you see the prompt about backing up your configuration file, click OK if you’ve backed up the file to continue.

9. Click OK to confirm that you chose the correct firmware file.

The firmware update will be uploaded to the router and the router will reboot. After which you may see a page with a 15 second countdown. Once completed, head over to the router’s admin page by visiting http://192.168.0.1 on your browser. Enter the default user name – admin and password – none. If entering a blank password does not work, try admin as the password also.

Once you are in, follow the instructions in the backup and restore configuration file guide to restore your router’s configuration. If you have any comments or questions please use the comments form below.

You should always backup your configuration file whenever updating the router’s firmware or when making changes to settings you are not familiar with. Restoring the configuration file is a sure and easy way to get your router back up and running should the settings get wiped out.

Software/Hardware used: D-Link DIR-655 using Chrome as the browser.

Backup Configuration File D-Link Router

Follow the instructions in section to backup the configuration file for your D-Link router.

1. Sign in to your router and click Tools then System on the left pane.

2. Click the Save Configuration button under System Settings.

Depending on the browser you are using, you may be prompted to choose a save location for the configuration (.gws) file created. Make sure to select a location you can easily access at a later time.

Once the file is saved you can rest assured that your router’s settings files is safely stored. Make sure to update the file regularly after upgrading your router or making significant changes to your router.

Restore Configuration File D-Link Router

This section of the guide will show how to restore the configuration file you downloaded in the previous section. This only needs to be done if you recently upgraded your router or if you restored the router to factory defaults.

1. The following steps assume that you are in the System Settings page of the router (see instructions above to arrive at this page).

2. In the System Settings page, click the Choose File button and locate and choose the configuration file we saved in the previous section of this guide. The file should have a .gws file extension.

3. Once you return to the router’s page after selecting the file, click the Restore Configuration from File button.

You will be asked if you are sure about doing this, click Yes to continue and the configuration file will be uploaded to the router. Shortly after, the router will reboot and you will soon be able to access your router.

If you have any comments or questions please use the comments form below.

I use a guest zone at home to keep guests from having access to my personal files on my home server. You can do the same to prevent unwanted access to your computers, files, and information from nosy guests. To enable this feature on D-Link routers, please follow the instructions below.

I will be posting more articles with other manufacturers as I get my hands on the devices. If you have any comments or questions please use the comments form at the end of the guide.

Software/Hardware used: D-Link DIR-655 Wireless Router Hardware Version A4 with firmware 1.34NA.

1. Open your browser and go to http://192.168.0.1

Note: This address is the default IP address used to communicate with the router’s web GUI, if you changed the router’s address during configuration, please use the new address instead.

Enter your router’s credentials and click Log In.

2. Once you are logged in, click Advanced from the top menu.

3. The menu on the left will refresh, click Guest Zone when it appears.

The Guest Zone page has several sections which we will go over in detail below. Read the information so that you can configure the guest network correctly.

4. Guest Zone Selection

Check Enable Guest Zone and choose a schedule from the drop-down menu.

The schedule allows you to control when the guest zone is available. I chose Always to keep from having to enable the guest network when someone needs it. You may choose to set one of the pre-defined schedules or to create your own by clicking the New Schedule button.

Wireless Network Name: Once you enable the guest zone you will be able to enter the name you wish to use for this network. This is the name that appears when someone is trying to connect to your network. In my case I chose to name it dlink_guest.

For ultimate security make sure that Enable Routing Between Zones is unchecked.

Security Mode: Use the drop-down to select the security mode you wish to use, I recommend you choose WPA. This guide will continue under the assumption that you chose WPA.

5. If you chose WPA as your security mode for the guest network, the WPA section will become available. Use this section to specify the WPA Mode, the Cipher Type, and Group Key Update Interval.

WPA Mode: The most secure is WPA2, however not all devices are compatible with this encryption method so guests may run into issues connecting to your guest network. If this is the case, I recommend that at least you enable Auto (WPA or WPA2). This will ensure some peace of mind while enabling most of your guests to connect to your guest network.

Cipher Type: If you use Auto for WPA Mode, use the TKIP Cipher which is compatible with legacy systems and some gaming systems. If you choose the WPA2 Mode only, the Cipher will automatically default to AES (CCMP).

Group Key Update Interval: Leave this setting alone.

6. Once you choose the Security Mode and WPA Mode you will be asked to entered the Pre-Shared Key, the password to connect to the guest wireless network. Enter the password you wish to use and make sure that it is alphanumeric and more than 8 characters. The longer the password, the more difficult it is to break.

7. When you are done configuring the guest zone, click Save Settings. The router may require a reboot for the changes to take effect. Once the router reboots you should see the guest zone along with your router’s SSID appear on your wireless networks list.

If you have any comments or questions please use the comments form below.

Assigning a static IP address to your computer allows you know that the device will always be addressable by the IP you assigned, so if you tell your computer to use IP address 123, it will always be addressable as 123. If you allow your router to assign the IP address (dynamic IP address), your computer may be 123 today and tomorrow it could be 321, which can make remote connections a little more time consuming. So if you’re interested in saving a little time and making managing your network a little simpler, follow the steps below to manually configure your Mac’s IP address.

IMPORTANT - If you use a manual IP address for your devices while connected to your home network make sure you keep this in mind when connecting to other networks that use DHCP. If you ever connect to other networks and have connection issues, reset these settings to automatic DHCP because another device on the network you are trying to connect to may be using the IP address you assigned or the network may not support the address you are using.

Software/Hardware used: Mac OS X.

Manually Configure AirPort IP Address

We will be covering both wireless (AirPort) and wired connections.

1. Open System Preferences.

2. Click Network under Internet & Wireless.

3. Click AirPort on the list of devices.

4. Click Advanced…

5. Click TCP/IP and select Manually from the Configure IPv4 drop-down.

6. Enter the IP Address, Subnet Mask, and Router IP address in the fields provided.

Note: If your router supports IPv6 then you would enter the IPv6 configuration for your Mac in the section provided.

Manually Configure Ethernet IP Adress

Assuming you have the Network properties window open, follow the instructions below.

1. Click Ethernet from the list of devices.

2. Select Manually from the Configure IPv4 list.

3. Enter the IP Address, Subnet Mask, and Router IP address in the fields provided. Click Apply to save the changes.

If you have any comments or questions please use the comments form below.

Software/Hardware used: Windows 7 Ultimate and HP Photosmart C7280 AIO Printer.

How to Share Printers in Windows 7

1. Click on the Orb to open the Start Menu.

2. Click on Devices and Printers.

3. When the Devices and Printers window opens right-click on the printer you wish to share.

4. Click on Printer properties from the menu.

5. When the printer’s Properties window opens click on the Sharing tab.

A. Check Share this printer.

B. Name the printer.

6. Click OK to save the changes.

Note: Your printer is now shared on your network. The computer sharing the printer must be on for the printer to be accessible to other computers or devices on the network.

If you wish to unshare the printer all you have to do is repeat the steps above and uncheck Share this printer. Click OK to save the changes.

This is a guest post from Richard Hay who is the owner and webmaster of WindowsObserver.com as well as a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional.

If you had the choice between a more expensive flight that included internet access for the duration of the flight (including overseas flights) and a flight without internet access, which would you choose?

It seems that this will be one of the factors to consider when purchasing tickets in the near future. In a recent press event, JetBlue announced a partnership with ViaSat to begin piloting (no pun intended) a program to provide internet access to passengers via satellite beginning in 2012. JetBlue’s aim is to install internet connectivity that meets tomorrow’s bandwidth needs which means that passengers may be able to stream YouTube videos, make video conference calls, and more. Row44, a ViaSat competitor has already reached agreements with SouthWest and Alaska Airlines to provide similar access to passengers.

The biggest hurdle faced by companies like ViaSat and Row44 is compliance with very strict FAA mandates that determine whether or not these services will ever make it into your next flight. A July 2010 story from PCMAG reported that nearly one-third of commercial aircraft have inflight Wi-Fi capabilities already.  That is 968 aircraft out of approximately 2,800.

I have used inflight Wi-Fi on several occasions and found it to be a pleasant experience as far as speed and access goes.  The limitation for existing services is the aircraft relies on communications towers on the ground that relay data to antenna on the aircraft. This of course presents problems for  flights whose trajectory takes them away from land.

Imagine the ability to be online while flying overseas, what was once a pipe dream might become true sooner than later although some would prefer the status quo and enjoy  the sense of freedom that comes from being unplugged. I for one, like the idea of having the option to connect when I choose regardless of my location.

Of course that adds an entire new requirement on aircraft – more power sources to power those devices. However, that can be the subject of another blog post.

So what do you think?  Are you ready for 24/7 access to the internet no matter where you are?

Photo via Xpontius and JetBlue Flickr

Note: A Linksys Wireless DSL Gateway and a WRT54G was used for this guide, but the instructions should be similar with other Linksys products.

Warning – Resetting the router to factory defaults will delete all of your router’s configuration settings including login information that may be necessary to access the internet.

Restore Router to Factory Defaults

1. Go to your router and using a point of a paper-clip or pen press and hold down the reset button for 30 seconds. You will notice that the routers lights will flash and it will re-initialize.

Connect to Router and Change Password

Once the router’s factory settings have been restored you will need to access your router’s administration panel to set your own password and this time we’ll write it down.

1. Open your browser and enter 192.168.1.1 in the address bar, hit Enter/Go.

2. When prompted enter the following for the user name and password:

User name – admin

password – (leave blank)

3. Click OK to sign-in.

Note: If it does not work make sure that the password field was left blank and that the user name is admin (case-sensitive). If it still doesn’t work you probably did not reset the router correctly, make sure to try and reset the router again.

4. Once you are signed in to the router’s administration panel, click on Administration.

5. Make sure that you are in Management and enter the user name and password that you wish to use.

6. Write it down.

7. Click Save Changes.

Image Via Newegg.com

Nowadays, networking is considered to be the one of the best fields in IT industry. People are struggling to make their career in this field. There are several companies which prefer to hire professionals possessing certifications in networking. It has been noticed that without certifications, people fail to leave good impression on the employers. CCIE certification is one of the best options to get the attention of many recruiters and chase your dream job. This certification is offered by Cisco and is also known as Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert. Getting certified will help to improve your skills in networking and internet.

The IT professionals who are holding CCIE certification are responsible for providing the assistance to staff of the organization. The role played by these professionals is very crucial for the well being of the country and society. In order to get the better results in the certifications, you have to get the proper training and practice a lot. You must be aware of the fact that these exams are not easy to clear. You have to be focused and practice with the help of mock test. This will make you more confident when you are attempting the examination.

This certification is universally accepted and you will get many job offers as a network engineer. You must know that CCIE is an expensive examination. However, this certification is recognized by many large organizations nationally and internationally. The CCIE certified professionals have more chances of getting the job than the ones who are not holding this certification.

There are several websites providing the information about this certification. You can download the online tutorials for the preparation of the exams. The tips and methods mentioned in these tutorials will help you in getting the better results. CCIE is known for its high standards and demands in IT industry.

Photo Courtesy of mightyohm.

Don’t know what a MAC address is?

In computer networking, a Media Access Control address (MAC address) is a unique identifier assigned to most network adapters or network interface cards (NICs) by the manufacturer for identification, and used in the Media Access Control protocol sub-layer. If assigned by the manufacturer, a MAC address usually encodes the manufacturer’s registered identification number. It may also be known as an Ethernet Hardware Address (EHA), hardware address, adapter address, or physical address. - Via Wikipedia

Do you own an iPad? You might want to look into protecting your investment with invisibleSHIELD screen protectors. If you need any help or have questions please post them below.

If you are looking for more iPad how-to’s, tips, and help visit our iPad page.

List of information you will find on the iPad’s About page.

• Number of Songs stored on iPad
• Number of Videos stored on iPad
• Number of Photos stored on iPad
• Number of installed Applications
• Capacity
• Available Capacity
• Current Version
• Model
• Your iPad’s Serial Number
• The Wi-Fi Address – MAC address
• The Bluetooth MAC address

1. Tap on Settings in the Home Screen.

2. Tap on General in Settings pane.

3. Tap on About.

All of your iPad’s important information will be displayed.

What are the advantages of reserving an IP address? Let’s say you use Remote Desktop to access PC’s on the network, by reserving an IP address for a device, you will never to change the IP address used to connect to the device. Another instance (the one that prompted me to write this) is when you use remote webcams throughout your home, if you want them to be addressable with a specific IP address, reserving the address takes care of this issue and ensures that the device will always have the reserved IP address.

Note: I used D-Link Router DIR-655 version A4/Firmware 1.33NA in this tutorial, the device I reserved the IP address for is the iPad.

If you need help, please visit our forum and post your question there.

1. Open your browser and navigate to your routers page, should be - http://192.168.0.1/

2. Enter your credentials and log in to your router.

3. Click on Setup in the menu bar.

4. Click on Network Settings on the left pane and scroll down.

5. When you scrolled down, stop where is says ADD DHCP RESERVATION, click on the Computer Name drop-down.

6. Click on the device/IP address you wish to reserve from the list.

7. You will notice that the MAC Address, the IP Address, and depending on the device even the name were copied over to the individual text boxes. If the Computer Name is empty, enter a name to identify the device.

8. Click on the Save button to add the reservation.

After the page refreshes, you will notice that the new reservation was added to the DHCP RESERVATIONS LIST.