802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g and … 802.11n? It always seems that as soon as we buy into something, a newer and better product comes to market. Now we are left wondering if what we just bought it good enough and will we have to upgrade again?

802.11n is a DRAFT protocol from the IEEE. This is the same group that designed all of our previous wireless networking technology, 802.11g being the most well known currently. So what is the difference between all of these?

The quick wireless networking summary:

So as you can see - the possible benefits of moving to 802.11n (draft) is more speed and more distance. Please keep in mind, by more speed, we do not mean faster internet. Most of the highest possible residential high speed internet connections in New Brunswick are currently 6Mbps or less.

The only major benefit of a higher speed wireless network will be transferring files from one computer to another on your wireless network. If you have the need to share files among computers at home, a wired Ethernet solution (100 or 1000Mbps) will be faster and more reliable than wireless. However, sometimes the wires can be difficult to conceal which is why many new homes are built with Ethernet cables already installed and can also be utilized as additional phone lines. Like any product, it is a matter of preference and need.

So if you are still considering 802.11n because you need more coverage, buy more powerful antennas! There are even non-evasive modifications that PC Rescue can do to any wireless router to help boost your range! Did you know older building with plaster and lattice construction block wireless signals? Simply relocating your wireless router can make all the difference!

“… this pitifully low level of interoperability and backward-compatibility is an embarrassment to the consumer WLAN industry and should be a wake-up call to all consumers. The industry had better stop hyping and start fixing this crap…and fast. Or the “N” in 802.11n will soon stand for “No” as in “no good”, “no work”, “no way”…” - Tom’s Networking

The technology you own is often MORE than sufficient for your needs, it just needs to be properly configured. You wouldn’t buy a new engine for a car because it wasn’t working 100% - you at least have a mechanic look at it first. PC Rescue is your in-home computer mechanic!

The school year is fast approaching and many will begin or return to University or College. We rush to ensure our children have the proper tools to help them through the oncoming years. This is why I can’t help but notice the bombardment of local retailers and their laptop bundles.

Near all of these bundles advertise a free printer but what is often overlooked is that these are inkjet printers that come with cartridges that are not as full as a replacement cartridge. Much akin to the video game industry, printer manufacturers make their money on the cartridges, not the printer. It is no secret that Sony or Microsoft take a loss on their consoles to gain market dominance and thus increase demand for their games.

So what is my point? Well, after recently completing my degree, I never had the necessity of an inkjet printer at university. You will quickly see many students printing reports on the Laser Printers in the labs. And at $0.10 per page, that adds up quick! DO NOT get pulled into the false idea that you are getting a deal because you got a free printer. It is going to cost you more in the long run to operate. I think I may have had two projects in 4 years that I needed some colour in my report for illustration reasons. There are many manufacturers now providing personal laser printers in the $100 range. For the price of a pair of cartridges for most printers, you can get a toner cartridge for your personal laser which will be much faster and more reliable.

For Example, today I saw the HP LaserJet 1018 for less than $100 at Wal-Mart and replacement toner is $82.72 (Staples.ca). This toner cartridge will yield approx. 2000 pages! When was the last time you printed that many with your inkjet?

If you have questions on what to buy, PC Rescue can help you find a solution that works with your needs and constraints with our Purchase Advice Program.

Good Luck to all of our returning students!

- JG