BROADBAND INTERNET CONNECTION COIMBATORE

There are many different takes on how to actually define the word: broadband. The first and most obvious way to define it is a transmission medium that allows for multiple pathways and types of data, far exceeding simple voice communication devices. Simply, put it is the ability to access a variety of data through one connection at a reasonable speed.

Where a phone line severely limits the amount of information it can transmit, a broadband line, which has bandwidth greater than 2 mbps, unlike a standard dial-up connection which will only have 56kbps, can allow for a variety of different frequencies and channels to travel down its wide pathway. This makes it optimal for those who play video games on the Internet or are involved in heavy graphics work that they need to import, send and receive along the information superhighway.

The minimum width of a broadband line has become a matter of debate. While initially, the broadband definition was a line that was greater than 2 mbps in width, other experts began asserting that it should be at least 3 mbps wide. Still others complain that at least 20 would be appropriate. But now, broadband services start as low as 1 mbps, for those who are trying out broadband for the first time. So who really knows what the minimum level of bandwidth is needed in order for it to be called broadband? One thing is certain though. DSL service which an range from 256 kbps capacity on the downstream and upstream side up to 1.5mbps, or even higher, is considered a broadband service as well. So are cable television modems, which have similar speeds. So, in reality anything with greater capacity than a narrow line, like a telephone line, which can only hold up to 64 kbps, is technically considered a broadband service.

Broadband services have become all the craze in the past few years. When the Internet started to become more mainstream in the 1990s people were content with simple dial-up Internet services, which used only narrow lines. But as the need for speed became important, especially as files and Web pages became more elaborate, requiring more computer storage space and memory, the need for larger bulks of information being able to be sent and received at a quicker pace became essential. Hence, we have the broadband revolution. Today, hardly anyone uses narrow band service, or dial-up. Broadband Internet access is the name of the game. And if you work in an office it is absolutely essential, as larger chunks of information are frequently sent to and from businesses on a regular basis. Simply put, if you don't have broadband today, you are probably a person who does not need the Internet for a living. With the number of telecommuting jobs available today, the need for broadband services is only likely to expand greatly.

Getting broadband services getting easy, but research still required

Broadband Internet services have become more the norm today, unlike the dial-up days of the late 1990s. With greater amounts of information needing to travel at faster and faster speeds over the Internet and the greater number of telecommuters every year, the need for broadband Internet has stretched beyond the board room and into the home office. So it is clearly more important than ever for everyone to know how to get broadband.

Getting broadband service, like, for example, DSL, is not difficult. There are many providers, and even many phone companies are getting into the game today as well. But finding a service provider, while not being very difficult, also requires a self-evaluation first. One must ask themselves before seeking out a broadband service provider, just what they'll be needing broadband service for.

For most people who work from home, they may only need reliable and speedy Internet access. They may need to transport documents, maybe some graphics to and from clients and employers. But they will likely not need to transmit video or graphics. But if they do need to transmit the latter, they may need to seek out higher bandwidth. But, again, if they are only sending documents that are not graphic intensive, a smaller bandwidth at a lower cost may be all they need, and then they can spend their savings on other aspects of their business or work.

After doing this necessary self assessment when looking at how to get broadband, it is important to check pricing on at least three broadband providers. Also, ask users of these providers about their experience. All of these broadband providers may boast the same thing, but the people who use their services are the true indicator of how they really perform.

After you match your needs with the best price and testimonial, the decision is yours whether you want to spring for a broadband provider. But chances are pretty good that even if you only spend a few dollars more a month for broadband, after awhile, you will wonder how you ever existed with dial-up service.

A broadband phone is one that makes phone calls over the Internet using the IP protocol. Several large broadband phone companies have come to the forefront in recent months offering the ability to make phone calls with a regular phone, that are routed over Internet Protocol using broadband Internet access. The most popular method of using voice over IP among the household users of this technology is connection to IP telephony via a digital adapter. This is the device that is connected between a broadband modem and a normal house phone to gain access to the broadband phone line. The digital adapter unscrambles the digital voice data that is received via the Internet and converts it to an analogue signal that can be heard and understood with regular non-digital phones.

Without a doubt, voice over IP is the future in telecommunications and long distance communication. Making phone calls over IP is much cheaper than either conventional phones or cellular communication. The technology is extremely efficient and it is very easy to implement due to the fact that it uses the infrastructure of the Internet, a communications structure that already exists.

As internet telephony and its surrounding technology become more and more refined over the coming years, so will the technology that gives us access to it. Even over the coming twelve months, we will see a change from the use of a digital adapter to convert digital data from the web into analogue. Instead, we will see an increase in the availability of digital telephones and USB phones that plug directly into a USB port and that can make and receive phone calls digitally. You will also notice other mediums produce products that will attempt to bridge the gap between old technology and new. While other companies will keep their eye on the digital future and come up with more advanced variations of voice over IP to take us into the future.

Broadband Internet

What is Broadband Service?

Broadband refers to a connection that has capacity to transmit large amount of data at high speed. Presently a connection having download speeds of 256 kbps or more is classified as broadband. When connected to the Internet such a connection allows surfing or downloading much faster than a dial-up or any other narrowband connections.

What are the benefits of broadband

Fast downloads

At least 4.5 times and upto 140 times faster than dial-up connection

Always on connection

Telephone and Internet access can be used together

No telephone call charges

Cost effective way to access Internet

A host of free content on the web can be downloaded faster


What kind of PC do I need to run broadband

The following minimum is, however, recommended:

Processor 200 MHz (or better)

Operating System Windows 98SE (or higher)

RAM (memory) 32 MB RAM

Free Disk Space 125MB

SVGA monitor

CD-ROM Drive

Network Interface Card(NIC) with 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port with RJ45 socket

DirecTV and DISH Network - How Do The Two Leading Satellite TV Providers Stack Up?

If you live in the U.S. and want satellite TV systems, you have basically two choices. Yes, there are other providers out there, but for most viewers, DirecTV and DISH Network offer the most choices for the least money, although Pegasus and Voom are fast becoming major contenders in the satellite television industry. Competition being what it is, both DirecTV and DISH Network offer similar services and constantly adjust to add features and outdo their rivals. So how do you choose between the two? A side-by-side comparison of the services and prices shows some differences that help customers decide which service best fits their viewing needs. But first, a little background on each provider might be helpful.

DirecTV

The company known as The DirecTV Group is made up of four main units, which include DirecTV U.S., DirecTV Latin America, PanAmSat, and Hughes Network Systems (HNS). As a group, the organization serves over 12 million U.S. satellite TV customers and another 1.5 million subscribers in Latin countries. Through PanAmSat, they operate a fleet of 25 satellites capable of providing satellite transmissions to 98% of the world. And Hughes Network Systems operates a satellite-based consumer broadband Internet access service known as DirecWay. This component of Hughes has over 180,000 subscribers. HNS is also one of the largest manufacturers of DirecTV set-top receivers. The four different aspects of The DirecTV Group give the company a large, comprehensive base of direct and indirect satellite customers. Their partnerships with technology leaders such as AOL, Microsoft, and TiVo also add to their customer base.

There are plans for improving and expanding services in efforts to attract more customers. Hughes Network Services is developing SPACEWAY, a more advanced satellite broadband communications package that is expected to provide customers with more affordable high-speed, two-way data communications. SPACEWAY is expected to be introduced in 2005.

DirecTV has been actively working to increase the number of markets where they offer local programming. In January of this year, the company added 18 new markets that will receive local channels via the DirecTV(R) programming service. By year-end, the company plans to offer local channels in a minimum of 130 markets, representing 92% of U.S. television households. Continued marketing and development of their HDTV and DVR products will also be a part of their plans to expand their customer base. Two different basic dish designs and several different manufacturers provide DirecTV consumers with a number of dish options.

DirecTV subscribers have a choice of two basic dish designs for their satellite service. The round dish is the more common 18" design that has been popular across the country. The oval dish or low noise blockdown (LNB) dish is able to receive information from more than one satellite and is required for those who want to receive local channels, HDTV, or Spanish language programming.

Popular manufacturers of DirecTV compatible dishes include Hughes, Sony, Phillips, and RCA. Current DirecTV sales and deals offer the satellite dish and other equipment for free with a one-year commitment. It could cost anywhere from $50 to over $200 to purchase the DirecTV compatible dish separately.

DISH Network

EchoStar Communications Corporation and their DISH Network service are Hughes Network's top competitors. Headquartered in Englewood Colorado, EchoStar has been a leader in the satellite TV industry for over 20 years. The company, founded by Charlie Ergen, began as a distributor of C-band cable television systems and filed for a Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) license in 1987. The company received broadcast access in 1992, launched its own satellite, EchoStar I, in 1995, and introduced DISH Network in 1996.

Today, the company has 9 satellites, and through DISH Network, provides over 500 channels of video, audio, and data satellite services to over 8.5 million customers in the U.S. In addition to satellite television services, DISH Network customers can also receive high speed Internet, Interactive TV (on demand programming), and High Definition TV (HDTV).

HDTV is EchoStar's latest innovation, which reportedly delivers extraordinarily sharp pictures and integrated sound by digitizing television programming. Broadcasting all DISH Network programming in wide-screen format and transmitting up to 10 percent more pixels, HDTV provides a clearer more proportionate picture.

In August of 2003, EchoStar was the first company to offer a satellite receiver with a built-in digital video recorder (DVR). A DISH Network standard DVR receiver allows viewers to stop, rewind, fast forward and record up to 60 hours of live TV programming. More advanced receivers provide enhanced services.

DISH Network services can be purchased on-line or through a local retailer. Unlike its competitor, DirecTV, DISH Network offers equipment installation. This service usually involves a fee, but often is offered at free or reduced rates through special sales promotions.

The equipment needed for DISH Network satellite TV is basically the same as for DirecTV service. You need a dish, a satellite receiver, and the access cards. Depending on the type of satellite TV you want, you have several choices for equipment. Whether you want standard satellite TV or Digital Video Recording (DVR), or High Definition (HD) options, you will need a dish. Each type of service requires a different dish, but that is determined for you when you choose your package.

A Comparison

So how do the two leading satellite television services compare? Both offer over 200 channels and Pay Per View selections, DVD recorders, HDTV and seven HD channels each. But from there, things differ somewhat. Here's a side-by-side listing of the different packages and the services provided. Look them over and decide which satellite TV service is best for your budget and viewing needs.

The researchers found that searching for information is big -- second only to using email. Fully eighty percent of Americans who are on the Internet have used a search engine to find information. Twenty-five percent (that's thirty-three million) use a search engine on a daily basis.

Men are more likely than women to use a search engine on a given day. 33% of men and 25% of women reported using a search engine on a specified day.

College grads are more likely to use a search engine than high school grads. 39% of Internet users with three or more years under their belts use a search engine on a given day, while only 14% of those online for less than six months use the searches on a given day.

Google is the most used search engine in terms of minutes searched. It's currently at 25.9 minutes and gaining. However, MSN has the most number of users. It recorded 43 million unique users in May of 2002, compared to Google's 36 million. Yahoo had 38 million unique visitors during that month.

Information searches fell into four main categories: information about people, health, government and religion.

People searches leaned towards the personal (66.6%), more than the professional (33.3%). College grads were more likely to do people searches than high school grads, and younger people (18-29) were more likely to do people searches than older people (50-64).

Seventy-three million Americans looked for health information... up from 52 million in fall of 2000. Women are more likely than men to look for heath information, but are likely to be turned off by sites that are selling something, or by sites that do not provide the date and source of their information. 81% started their search at a search engine or at a web portal like Yahoo, AOL or MSN. The others started at a health information site.

45% started at the top of the search list and worked their way down. The rest clicked through according to recognized names or relevant content descriptions.

82% reported satisfaction with the health information they found.
One in three say they know someone who has been helped by Internet health information. Two out of 100 know someone who has been harmed.

Most searched for health information pertains to specific diseases, weight control, and prescription drug information. Inquiries are increasing for mental health information and for sensitive medical topics.

Sixty-eight million Americans reported using government agency web sites -- a dramatic increase from 40 million in the March of 2000. 40% started their search at a major search engine or web site such as AOL or MSN. Most scanned the search link for names that seemed to fit. Only 21% visited sites according to rank.

28 million Americans (up from 19 million in late 2000) use the search engines to find religious or spiritual information or contacts. Only 4% started their search at religious portals.

Other statistics of interest to marketers:
95% of Internet-using Americans go online to use email.
80% do searches
80% look for hobby-related information
37% play games online
75% go online to research a product or service before making a purchase
63% look for information about movies, books and entertainment
44% look for financial information
20% participate in auctions
9% visit dating web sites
5% go online to gamble

Only 21% of Americans (twenty-four million people) have broadband Internet access in their homes. However, this number is four times greater than in 2000. The broadband users are more likely to be wealthy, educated males. Not surprisingly, persons with high speed access make fuller use of the Internet's resources than those with dial up connections.

Atlanta start-up VoIP Communications with Escape International and 8x8, Inc. (Nasdaq: EGHT), the Packet8 Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and videophone communications service provider, announced the availability of its DTA Broadband Phone Adapter and DV 326 Broadband VideoPhone at VoIP Communications http://www.voippacket8.net with Escape International Company: http://www.escapeinternational.com/, whose broadband VideoPhone service with Freedom Unlimited U.S & Canada Video calling broadband software lets anyone become a small-scale Internet business provider, Virtual Office hosted PBX Services and a Home-based business, the Founder, Chairman and CEO of VoIP Communications, Nate Perkins, says it's close to letting people create their own miniature phone networks as well as a small home business.

The Packet8 DTA adapter and VideoPhone will be featured at Voippacket8.net's online store, a component of its web-based information portal designed to provide consumers with a comprehensive guide to understanding Internet telephony. The latest chapter in the life of local entrepreneur Nate Perkins us VideoPhone, a Stockbridge outlet for the new Voice over Internet Protocol picture phone. Perkins, with 24 years in military telecommunications, received a MASTER in Information Technology (IT) from University of Texas, Killeen, Texas, a disabled-combat retired Army colonel and Republican activist, has closed another Stockbridge business and his Art Outlet in Riverdale to concentrate on sales of the Packet8 phones from Escape International. The phones allow subscribers to see each other as they speak. The number Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) households is expected to mushroom to 18 million by 2008 as service quality increases, already inexpensive rates continue to drop and more homes get broadband, which VoIP operators usually require.

Because the 9 Nov, ruling the Federal Communications Commission has decided not to have the states limited to regulate the new technology, there's a chance for small businessmen like me to compete with the big companies, which will serve to keep the prices down for Voice over Internet Protocol services.
VoIP Communications' unique VoIP Packet8 service, Packet8 VoIP Phone Adapter service introduced a few months ago, lets someone buy, install, maintain, operate and resell high-speed Internet service using Packet8 VideoPhone service, which are commonly used to with a high-speed internet connection (DSL, cable) or with a DSL or cable router and a Packet8 VideoPhone and Packet8 Phone Adapter dispense high-speed Internet inside millions of schools, homes, offices, hotels and motels, retail outlets, public areas airport ports, transportation hubs and states-wide Homeland Security Act.
With the Enhanced 911 (E911) broadband AMBER Alerts states emergency communications service plans. VoIP Communications, highly recommend that our company broadband VideoPhones (business or home phone) will offer and add greater, cheaper and faster Internet Phone Service with Voice over Internet Protocol that the states receiving broadband AMBER Alert notifications via their VoIP phones just like e-mail and electronic text messages. VoIP Communications service would add an order of magnitude of functionality to security his offering. Initial deals for the customers include (2) two month's free service free activation and rebates on the phones he will offer for about $250 during the holidays. VideoPhone price starting at $19.95 to #34.95 plus $3.00 for the E911 service if or when your states install the E911 network.

VoIP technology "We're moving fast" to start supporting Voice over Internet Protocol), a way of making phone calls over the Internet, www.VoIPPACKET8.NET web site claims. This way, broadband Internet networks, also known as "VoIP communications," could serve as a kind of giant online pay telephone booth, the resprestaive company says. Its soon-to-be potent mix of Wi-Fi, VoIP and open-source software that works on just about any Wi-Fi router "help (s) break the monopoly of regulated data and voice communications," a company spokesman said. "He has hired 25 home-based sale people already, he added, and plans to hire up to 3,000 in the Metro Atlanta and nationwide in the next several weeks to come". Perkins informed his staff, "that this is how we are going to put American back to work, people who have suffered from traditional companies layoffs and economic ups and downs".
While some entrepreneurs will probably use the Packet8 phones to turn their homes into small-based business, VoIP Communication's founders believe the initial market will predominantly be businesses run out of homes, or small companies looking for any competitive advantage they can get.

We here at VoIP Communications are another example of the changing face of the telephone industry. A decade ago, nearly every phone call at one point use the expensive, privately owned and heavily taxed and regulated local phone network. But VoIP technology allows the same calls to use the Internet--a haven from taxes and regulations-- that makes them much cheaper, and Packet8 (www.VoIPPACKET8.net). See Atlanta Journal-Constitution cover story "Ask Clark Howard", dated 16 November 2004, paged IE3. Listen Clark Howard's radio show 1-4pm Mondays-Fridays on WSB-AM (750). Have questions about VoIP? Visit www.ajc.com/buyersedge

Traditional telephone operators first used VoIP technology to cut down on their own costs. Two years ago, commercial services such as Vonage helped seed the market for using a broadband connection to make and receive calls from any phone number. By year's end, a million U.S. homes will be using broadband to make phone calls, and 10 million by 2008, several analysts have predicted.

About VoIP Communications

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Communications, the Founder LTC Nate Perkins USA, Ret., the Chairman and CEO, VoIP Communications, a Broadband Videophones: http://www.voippacket8.net. Starting at $19.95 unlimited U.S. & Canada Calling. The author of the bestseller book: NATE PERKINS LIVE! WE'RE AT A CROSSROAD. TALK TO ME (see page 101). http://www.nateperkinslive.com "Is dedicated to the President of the United States, George W. Bush, and the Republican Party 2004. LTC Nate Perkins, USA, (RET) is the most controversial TV host/ Radio host in Atlanta, Georgia. He is a 24-years disabled-veteran combat veteran".

For more information, visit wed sites www.VoIPPACKET8.net or http://www.nateperkinslive.com, free call 1-866-904-VoIP, fax to 1-678-565-8733. VoIP Communications is a disabled-veteran company, located in SOCKBRIDGE VILLAGE at 893 Highway 138 W Suite 10, Stockbridge, and Georgia 30281. A member of DSL Reports Gold and The Fierce15. Representative Team Manger With Escape International.

About Escape International

Escape International Incorporated, a privately held company, founded in 2001 is a marketing company focused primarily on telecom products and services. A second division exists specializing in wellness products. Escape prides itself on being a legitimately free network marketing company with income opportunities ranging from stay at home part time income to full time business opportunities. Escape is managed by a strong team of highly experienced individuals with over forty years of combined experience in the industry. For additional company information, visit the Escape Internationa

If you are not utilizing the power of the web as an integral part of your marketing program and business strategy, you are simply asleep! And your competition loves you for it.

In today's Internet-loving environment, you and your business should clearly understand the huge benefits of an effectively designed and properly utilized e-presence. Using the Internet is virtually free, providing a worldwide customer reach for your message and product. Imagination is the only limitation in effectively utilizing the Internet in your marketing. Quickly and easily, the Internet will cost-effectively provide current information to your target market in a non-intrusive and timely manner.

The Internet has become the great equalizer for thinking businesses wishing to thrive in the 21st century. I dare you to ‘surf-the-web' and pick 10 companies at random and tell me how big their annual revenue is. Whether your business is just starting out, or celebrating its 25th year, the Internet tends to level the playing field, initially providing equal access to your targeted market. And that is a primary task for any marketing group wishing to grow their business.

There are a number of aspects to an effective "on-line" presence adding both reach and currency to your total marketing strategy. Short of being just an e-business, your e-presence should compliment other marketing efforts. In other words, the look & feel of the web site, e-newsletters, e-mail, etc. should reflect and reinforce the image you already send to your target markets through sales brochures, direct mail, product presentations, and corporate communiqués.

Developing an on-line presence takes some thought and planning. Don't wing it! As a start, apply the same process to creating a first class web site that you do to your other marketing programs. Capture the same image and message on line that you already convey in other marketing collateral dispensed by the company and its sales representatives. Don't skimp - a poorly deigned web site sends the wrong message. Especially when there are many inexpensive ways to create a highly polished, professional grade version.

Depending on your business, Global Marketing believes that a comprehensive Internet effort should include a few key parts. Each part comes with a set of Do's and Don'ts that will make or break your e-marketing programs. If you are new or not sure, Global Marketing recommends that you hire a consultant or a reputable Web site design group to assist your initial entry.

► Creating your web site
Your web site becomes the centerpiece or catalyst for all of your e-marketing efforts. Don't get caught up in telling everyone how great your company and senior executives are, rather inform the potential customer why working with your firm will benefit them. After all, the primary purpose of marketing is to create sales opportunity. The web site should be another tool to this end.

If you hire a consultant or web design group, they already understand how to effectively paint your message on the Internet landscape. If you decide to do it in-house, then a few simple reminders may help:

Make your web site easy to read with a crisp message on how and why the customer benefits
Make your web site intuitive and easy to navigate, keep things simple and informative
Make the look & feel similar to your other marketing collateral to reinforce your brand image
Stay away from fancy graphics, video and audio - many people still access through slow modems
Make sure it's clear how they can contact you if they want more information
To increase your web site traffic ( leverages search engine use ) utilize meta tags
Keep your site fresh with frequent and informative updates that motivate return visits
Test your site often with multiple browsers to ensure it plays at all levels
Make your content important, timely and relevant - provide value to your visitors, and they will return

► Creating Sales opportunities
A web site begins to stitch together your overall e-presence. Your next step is to turn your web site into a pro-active marketing tool that reaches out and creates sales opportunities for your business. One method used frequently is a high quality and informative eNewsletter.

An eNewsletter is easy to create, and easier to distribute. With the click of one button, you can literally send your eNewsletter to millions of prospective customers. The beauty of an eNewsletter is that it is immediate and virtually free via the Internet - consider the alternative snail-mail of $0.18/copy (bulk-rate) and 5-7 business days to delivery. An eNewsletter can be an effective promotional tool breathing sustained value into your company's offering, while providing a greater competitive advantage.

eNewsletters can be an effective tool in generating new sales opportunities or made irrelevant and considered worthless spam. The way you approach this important and special communication with your target market decides which label your customers give it.

Some things to consider when developing your eNewsletter. The key to any well-written eNewsletter is capturing e-mail addresses and building your customer database. The more email addresses the better, however, give your target market an option by inviting them to "opt-in " to your eNewsletter. In other words, don't ‘spam' them by sending the eNewsletter unless they asked for it. It devalues your eNewsletter no matter the contents.

Global Marketing realizes that it is tempting to buy a ready list of e-mail names. There is a time to buy e-mail lists; this is not one of them. Keep your eNewsletter as a special prize provided to select individuals and only available by visiting your web site. By getting them to your site you can present your marketing message and the benefits to their company. The eNewsletter now becomes an effective follow-on hook. And you get them to sign-on for your eNewsletter by making the content compelling. Your topics should be current and relevant, with tips that help their business grow and develop. An easy read, that is non-intrusive, yet timely, focused and value packed.

Shy away from incorporating graphics into your eNewsletter. It's tempting to use frames and splash fancy graphics around that make the piece more eye appealing, but resist. As ubiquitous as the Internet is, many individuals still access the Internet through slow modems and older, non-compatible PC's. Don't make it hard for your prospect to gain information. These bring the same sale opportunity as those using broadband Internet access. Try to concentrate on content, not form. You'll reach more opportunities and won't lose one point in image. Make it effortless for your readership to get easy access to additional information by inserting hyper links into your eNewsletter, but make sure they work. Nothing is more frustrating than to click on a link and find out it doesn't link!

Use your eNewsletter to inform your customer base and potential clients about new products, or services. Selectively discuss significant corporate events but only to the extent it reinforces the customers' decision to work with your firm. Gratuitous self-promotion is meaningless. Certain promotions and value adding programs that benefit the customer should be routinely included. The frequency of your eNewsletter depends on your target audience. Weekly or bi-weekly seems to strike a good balance between too little and too much. However, the decision should be driven by how often you have enough important ‘news'. Global Marketing has seen daily eNewsletters that retain importance to the customer.

► Other important e-marketing tools and considerations
e-Marketing has two basic responsibilities once the web site is built --to create compelling content and increase traffic to the web site. All in an effort to uncover sales opportunities.

There are a variety of tools to drive up traffic. Earlier in this article, Global Marketing mentioned meta tags in relation to web site development. Meta tags are used by search engines such as Goggle, Altavista, etc. to quickly scan and return the most relevant web sites based on words or a group of words entered into the search field. This article won't cover all aspects of meta tags, suffice to say that meta tags should be incorporated into the heading of each page as well as the title page of your web site. The selection of these words is critical. Meta tags should be words that reflect what you do, and be descriptive of your products or services.

The importance of picking the right words and phrases plays out when the search engine returns numerous web sites - say 30,000. Meta tags is part of the process by which web sites are ranked against the criteria you put into the search field. And there is a variety of programming tricks that will raise your web site's ranking. With literally millions of web sites available on the Internet, Marketing's goal should be to get ranked in the top 25 for words and phrases that are important to your mission, product or service. This brings visitors that seek what you offer - an initial qualifying process. Global Marketing's experience can be of vital help in this area.

e-Marketing works for a variety of reasons. However, many of the same basic marketing principles applies. You need to understand your customer, and serve them faster and more compelling than your competitors. Building a database of customers in your target market is key. In e-Marketing you are looking for e-mail addresses rather than mailing addresses. When you first start your e-presence, you need e-mail addresses. Lots and lots of e-mail addresses. Now would be the time to buy a ready-made list. You may also decide to use various pieces of software that captures e-mail addresses on the Internet. E-mail lists are plentiful and available for select markets, and can be sliced and diced to meet your particular needs. Typical costs will range from $0.10 to $0.50 per e-mail address depending on the quality and source of the list. Or you may decide to use any of a number of inexpensive software programs that will trowel-the-net capturing literally 100's of thousands of new e-mail address per hour. You may get quantity, but quality can be poor and is unqualified.

Proper use of e-mail addresses will help to increase you web site traffic. However, the company still has a burden to make the content of the web site compelling to the visitor. By keeping the web site fresh, with high content, the visitor will return. Your web site can be the beginning of a customer qualifying process. As a pivotal customer support tool, your web can provide access to information customers need while saving them a phone call and allowing them access time on their terms. Done correctly, e-marketing provides a very sustainable competitive advantage.

How effective is your web site will be something you want to know? You'll want to know if your content is compelling and does it drive up traffic. You'll want to know what pages are accessed and how many times. If you run a special, you'll want to know if visitors read about it. Traffic statistics can be a powerful monitoring tool to assist the marketing group to adjust the web content , ensuring maximum visitors. Software programs are available that do a wonderful job of reporting and slicing and dicing the data to how it best fits your needs. Most servers will also provide limited data and reports on traffic.

Depending on your target market, you must decide what content provides your target market the most value. These include decisions on what is available for free and what requires payment. Payment can take the form of asking for an e-mail address to actually accepting credit cards. Typical web site content may include product or service data sheets, applications notes and/or certain downloadable software giving 24 hour, 7 day-a-week access. This convenience clearly makes it easier for customers to do business with you and that's a plus. You may also direct clients to other web sites that offer resources that compliment your products. There is a host of ways to use your web site to enhance your competitive position, while qualifying and informing your target market.

Establishing an e-presence is a marketing imperative in today's global market. Global Marketing can provide ideas on content and additional ways to drive up traffic to your web site. Call today!

How VoIP / Internet Phone Works
VoIP converts the voice signal from your telephone into a digital signal that travels over the Internet. If you are calling a regular phone number, the signal is then converted back at the other end. Internet Voice can allow you to make a call directly from a computer. If you make a call using a phone with an adaptor, you'll be able to dial just as you always have, and the service provider may also provide a dial tone. If your service assigns you a regular phone number, then a person can call you from his or her regular phone without using special equipment.

Background
Internet Telephony, also known as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), is a technology that allows you to make telephone calls using a broadband Internet connection instead of a regular (or analog) phone line. Some services using VoIP may only allow you to call other people using the same service, but others may allow you to call anyone who has a telephone number - including local, long distance, mobile, and international numbers. Also, while some services only work over your computer or a special VoIP phone, other services allow you to use a traditional phone through an adaptor.

What Kind of Equipment Do I Need?
A broadband Internet connection is required to make VoIP calls. Some services allow you to use a regular telephone, as long as you connect it to an adaptor. Some companies allow you to make calls from a computer or a VoIP phone that doesn't require an additional adapter. If you are calling a regular telephone number, the person you are calling does not need any special equipment, just a phone.

If I have VoIP Service, Whom Can I Call?
Depending upon your service, you might be limited only to other subscribers to the service, or you may be able to call any phone number, anywhere in the world. The call can be made to a local number, a mobile phone, a long distance, or an international number.

What Are Some Advantages of VoIP?
Because VoIP is digital, it may offer features and services that are not available with a traditional phone. If you have a broadband Internet connection, you need not maintain and pay the additional cost for a line just to make telephone calls.

Does My Computer Have to be Turned On?
Not if you are making calls with a phone and adaptor or special VoIP internet phone, but your broadband Internet connection needs to be active. You can also use your computer while talking on the phone.

Is There a Difference Between Making a Local Call and a Long Distance Call?
Some VoIP internet telephony providers offer their service for free, normally only for calls to other subscribers to the service. Some VoIP internet telephony providers charge for a long distance call to a number outside your calling area, similar to existing, traditional wireline telephone service. Other VoIP providers permit you to call anywhere at a flat rate for a fixed number of minutes.
Your VoIP internet telephony provider may permit you to select an area code different from the area in which you live. This means that if your VOIP provider charges for long distance, then charges could be based on whether you call within your area code rather than geographic area. It also means that people who call you may incur long distance charges depending on their area code and service.

Can I Take My internet Phone Adapter With me When I Travel?
You may be able to use your VoIP service wherever you travel as long as you have a broadband Internet connection available. In that case it would work the same as in your home.

How Do I Know If I have a VoIP Phone Call?
The phone will ring like any other call.

Does the FCC Regulate Internet Voice?
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has worked to create an environment promoting competition and innovation to benefit consumers. Historically, the FCC has not regulated the Internet or the services provided over it.

Additional Considerations
If you're considering replacing your traditional telephone service with VoIP, there are some possible considerations you should be aware of:

Some VoIP services don't work during power outages and the service provider may not offer backup power

It may be difficult for some VoIP services to seamlessly connect with the 911 emergency dispatch center or to identify the location of VoIP 911 callers

VoIP providers may or may not offer directory assistance/white page listings. Aspects of these considerations may change with new development in Internet Voice technology. You should always check with the potential VoIP service provider to confirm any advantages and limitations to their service.

Medical insurance billing software, also called electronic claims software, is now one of the most important elements of a successful medical practice. Medical insurance billing is no longer as time consuming as it once was. Now you have the opportunity to electronically file insurance claims quickly and resolve issues easily. You can spend more time processing the claim and less time in follow-up. This will keep costs down, as insurance processing will now run more efficiently and administrative work will be reduced. You will receive payments more quickly and spend less time on accounts receivable follow-up calls.

Many medical offices utilize the power of the Internet to conduct everyday transactions more efficiently, more accurately, and less expensively than ever before. Some of the functions that can be performed via the Internet include checking eligibility and claims status, receiving referrals and authorizations, and acquiring pre-certifications.

A popular option that many experts recommend is web-based software. All you need is an average computer and a broadband Internet connection. Web-based companies offer many services, such as software support, security, database management and training. Some of the specific services offered for medical insurance billing are the fact that claim files are automatically generated at scheduled times and submitted to the carriers and clearinghouses without user intervention, and automatically downloaded responses that are interpreted and converted into word processing format and claims marked as submitted when the response file is received from the carrier instead of when the biller saves the claim. The web-based option eliminates the burden of maintaining network servers, backup tapes, upgrades or modems. Discover if the software package will fill all the medical insurance needs of your practice by finding providers who are experienced in health care management solutions and issues specific to medical insurance claims.

When searching for the appropriate medical insurance billing software, consider if the software makes the incomprehensible simple. Medical insurance software systems should include a comprehensive selection of features to ensure that you can manage your practice files, claims and billing with maximum ease and efficiency. Some important features to look for are access to the latest forms and guidelines, a step-by-step procedure that will prompt you through the claims process with relative ease, and features that will automatically print the proper forms, documents and bills when complete.

Why waste time on phone calls to insurance companies when medical insurance billing software can provide quick access to claims management. Let your medical insurance billing software interface directly with the carrier and your practice. Medical insurance billing software is just one of the many options now available that make operating a medical practice easier than ever before. Medical Billing Software Info provides comprehensive information about medical insurance billing software, HIPAA compliant medical billing software, easy and free medical billing software, and medical billing software prices and reviews. Medical Billing Software Info is the sister site of Medical Billing Web.

Medical billing software, also referred to as electronic medical billing software, is now one of the most important components of a successful medical practice. Healthcare professionals from many different specialties can benefit from some level of medical billing software. Innovations in the field of medical billing software have created a new standard of digital precision. Many software packages in general can now fill all the needs of your practice; you can easily locate vendors who know about health care management solutions and will work with your practice to maintain your lead in the business.

When investigating possibilities for your billing software, ask questions such as how and for whom the system was designed, and whether the data will be safe and secure on backed-up, protected, HIPAA-compliant servers accessible only to authorized persons. ("HIPAA" is the acronym for the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996.) Then you can ask for the total price (including ongoing costs like software upgrades) of the entire software package. Some vendors will allow you to build your own medical billing software quote by providing you with a series of questions that will identify your essential needs. Moreover, look for companies who offer free updates to ensure continued efficiency and HIPAA compliance.

To figure out your software requirements, you can either assess them for yourself if you have excellent computer and software knowledge, or contact one of the many medical practice software providers who can assist you in comparing features, prices, and services. There are many companies that will do this free of charge.

One popular option that some electronic medical billing software experts will recommend is to use web-based software. These are companies that maintain practice management programs, electronic medical records, and various software programs on remote computers. All of your data is web-based and accessible through the Internet. These companies are commonly referred to as application service providers (ASPs). All you need to use an ASP is an ordinary computer and a broadband Internet connection. Most packages include software support, security, database management and training. This eliminates the burden of maintaining network servers, backup tapes, upgrades or modems. Additionally, search for software providers (web-based or otherwise) who will consistently upgrade their products in a timely manner, anticipate future developments, and translate those advances into system features.

Because dynamic, scalable software is now readily available to the modern medical establishment, even the most humble doctor's office can install a fluid software system that everybody can use. Further, as the demand for electronic medical billing software has blossomed, so have the available choices. Medical billing software is just one of the many options now available that make operating a medical practice easier than ever before. Medical Billing Software Info provides comprehensive information about medical insurance billing software, HIPAA compliant medical billing software, easy and free medical billing software, and medical billing software prices and reviews. Medical Billing Software Info is the sister site of Medical Billing Web.

Banner ads are down but not out. The billboard-like
Internet ads that appear on web sites everywhere don't pull
the response they once did. Yet, today's much lower ad
prices are giving many businesses an affordable and
effective way to spread the word online.

Back in 1994 when the Web was new, as many as 40
percent of people who saw a banner ad clicked on it. As
time passed and banners became commonplace, response
rates dropped to 1 to 2 percent. Those figures are
comparable to what other media--radio, TV, newspapers,
and direct mail--can deliver.

Banner ad rates have dropped from $20 to reach 1,000
people a year ago to just five or six dollars today. Even
though the trendy luster of the Web has passed, there are
still millions of interested prospects to be found online. This
could be the best time ever for small and medium-sized
businesses to stock up on banner ads.

The Internet ad industry isn't taking response rates lying
down. Recently the Internet Advertising Bureau approved
standards for new, larger banners. The new "wide
skyscraper" size has already appeared on top sites and is
three times larger than what we are used to. Advertisers
hope the larger size will get reader attention, converting
more sales.

Experts warn not to get caught up in the flash of new
banner technology. The quality of your offer and the clarity
of your message are still the main factors in getting results.
Here are five ways to make sure you banner gets attention
and pulls response:

* Your banner should ask the reader to take action.
Something as simple as putting "Click Now!" on your
banner can increase response.

* Use words that attract interest and create emotion. Free
and Special Offer are favorites. I like to start each line with
an action word. Buy, Save, Profit, and Rush work well.

* Push the main benefit your product or service provides.
Most advertisers forget this point and promote their
product's features. Show readers how a feature leads to
something that benefits their situation. The chrome fender
on the Gizmo 2000 saves time and reduces costs.

Animated banners pull better response than static ads. Sites
and banner networks usually have guidelines that help keep
your animated banners from becoming a turnoff. Keep your
ad size under 12k. Anything larger takes forever to load for
anyone using a slow dial-up line as almost 80 percent of
North Americans do.

If you use photos in your banner, keep them low resolution
so they load quickly. In many cases you can reduce the
standard 256 web-safe colors to just 16 for an even "lighter"
banner.

Animated banners step readers through two or three
successive panels. Put your most important message on the
first panel so those with slow connections don't miss out if
the second panel doesn't pop up before they click away. I
like to put the main offer on the first panel with a few
delicious details on the second.

If you banner is light and loads fast, feel free to have the
most important part of your message on the third panel.
For example: (1) Tired? (2) Feel better fast (3) Get
Energizomine...Click here!

Before you commit big money to your banner ad campaign,
test your ad or ads with a 30 day trial run. Most banner
networks provide reliable statistics on how many people
have seen your ad (impressions) and how many clicked on it
to go to your site (click-throughs). You can also check the
server logs your web host provides to see where hits are
coming from.

Pay close attention to the web page visitors are taken to
after they click on your banner. One of the biggest
complaints is users can't find information about the offer
they saw on the banner. Tailor a special page to correspond
with your banner. Make sure you give plenty of
information, ways for prospects to contact you, how to buy,
and what your product or service costs. Too many sites are
leaving these points out of their sales page, making this one
of the chief causes of lagging banner response.

Banner ads are the Internet's main advertising vehicle. Over
the next few years, as more and more people get fast
broadband Internet connections, we will see "rich media"
banners that look more like television.

Low ad prices and less competition makes this a great time
to promote your offer or name online. By following these
simple tips you can make banners a reliable part of your
marketing arsenal.

VoIP stands for; Voice Over Internet Protocol.

What VoIP does is it converts the voice signal from your telephone into a digital signal that travels over the Internet.

This means NO phone charges! And this is why VoIP is such a buzz word today.

VoIP presents businesses and consumers a like with an option to save on their phone bills.

It is very simple to set up and use, and requires very little equipment.

For instance...If you are calling a regular phone number, the signal is then converted back at the other end. Internet Voice can allow you to
make a call directly from a computer.

If you make a call using a phone with an adaptor, you'll be able to dial just as you always have,and the service provider may also provide a dial tone.

If your service assigns you a regular phone number, then a person can call you
from his or her regular phone without using special equipment.

What Do You Need To Get Started?

A broadband Internet connection is required to make VoIP calls. Some services
allow you to use a regular telephone, as long as you connect it to an adaptor.

Some companies allow you to make calls from a computer or a VoIP phone that doesn't require an additional adapter.

If you are calling a regular telephone number, the person you are calling does not need any special equipment, just a phone.

More and more companies are entering the VoIP arena everyday. The two most popular are Vontage and SKYPE.

For a low monthly fee you can make unrestricted calls anywhere without incurring any long distant charges. As you can see VoIP can be a real money saving opportunity for smart consumers and businesses.

It is important to compare plans when considering a VoIP provider. Depending on the plan you might be limited only to other subscribers to the service, or you may be able to call any phone number, anywhere in the world. The call can be made to a local number, a mobile phone, a long distance, or an international number.

What Are Some Advantages of VoIP?

Because VoIP is digital, it may offer features and services that are not available with a traditional phone. If you have a broad band Internet connection, you need not maintain and pay the additional cost for a line just to make telephone calls.

The ability to get your free full movie download has finally come around. Broadband internet has opened a Pandora's Box for movie and music downloads. You can now get a free full movie download in a few hours. Thanks to video compression you can fit an entire movie on a couple of CDs or a single DVD.

Now that they have DVD burners people are looking for ways to get DVDs for free. There are tons of DVD rips all over the net. You just have to know where to look. These are high quality rips that give you the exact same performance as regular DVDs. You can download all this and more at little to no cost.

There are a lot of sites out there that you can use to get a free full movie download. You could be a couple clicks away from never paying for a movie again. Imagine never having to dish out 20 bucks for a DVD.

When you download free full movies always make sure you do it safely. You don't want to end up getting in trouble by the law. I recommend trying out one of these sites that insures safety by blocking your IP or by another means of anonymity. These are your best bet and they don't cost much at all.

Shared Movies
Movie Download World
Ultimate Movie Download
iMovieSearch
Full Movie Downloads

Top 3 U.K. broadband providers offer variety of products

Every Internet provider today wants to make it sound like you are getting something for nothing. There are even some providers who will offer free access if you are willing to surf the Internet with numerous pop-ups from their advertisers. But the top 3 U.K. broadband providers have made their presence known by simply giving customers what they want - quality service at an affordable price.

Homecall Broadband, one of the top three U.K. broadband providers, offers screaming deals on broadband and phone service that starts as low as 19.99 pounds per month. There are other plans available from Homecall to help suit your home business or office needs. The company has made quite a name for itself as one of the top U.K. broadband providers and has no plans to stopping anytime soon.

BT Broadband is another of the top three U.K. broadband providers that also offers affordable Internet access that doesn't tie up your phone line. The company states on its Web site that about 99 percent of the country has broadband available to it. With prices quite low and its service quality helping to garner a solid reputation BT Broadband will likely continue to be one of the top three U.K. broadband providers through the years.

Another Internet company that is offering both cheap and reliable Internet access that does not disrupt a home or business's phone line is Wanadoo Broadband. The company offers smoking 2 mbps per month deals starting as low as 17.99 pounds, almost unheard of for broadband Internet service. The company offers greater bandwidth for larger users, such as businesses as well.

But with the three top U.K. broadband providers clamoring for market share, if you are shopping for a provider it could be in your best interest to check them all out and see which service may be right for you. In some areas, one of these providers may not be available to you, as it may not have infrastructure in place to provide service to you yet.

But even if all three of these top U.K. broadband providers are in your area, it would still be advisable to get opinions from those who use their services. They are all very reputable companies, but talking to people who may even have the same broadband needs as you will give you insight into what life will be like with a certain broadband provider. Even with the top three U.K providers available, one may have a service that fits your needs better than another provider.

I have always regretted how Microsoft price gouges and rips off computer users. I really regret Windows XP activation. I have always intended to convert to Linux, but it isn't easy for a Windows user since version 3.0.

Recently, I purchased the book "Moving to Linux" by Marcel Gagne. The interesting thing about the book is that it includes a bootable Linux CD-ROM. "Knoppix" is a special version of Linux that you can run entirely from your CD drive. You can run Linux without uninstalling Windows or making any changes to your PC.

I tried the Knoppix CD on a Windows 2000 machine with a 200 MHz pentium II and 128 RAM, a very low power machine by today's standards. Linux provides you with step-by-step status information, and I ignored several error messages as Knoppx was booting. It took a while for Linux to boot from the 52X CD-ROM drive, but then Windows 2000 also takes forever to boot on this machine.

To my amazement, Knoppix booted successfully, with the proper screen resolution and access to all the drives. To my further amazement, the CD-ROM contained OpenOffice.org 1.0. I used OpenOffice to create a file. I couldn't save the file to the hard disk, probably because of access rights (NTFS or Linux), but I could save it to a floppy disk. Later, I opened the floppy disk file on a different Windows 2000 machine with the Windows version of OpenOffice.

In his book, Marcel Gagne gives you several tips to make knoppix start faster and work faster. For example, he provides a command that creates a Linux swap file on your Windows partition, and a command that saves Knoppix configuration to a floppy disk.

Note: If you have a broadband Internet connection, you can download Knoppix from www.knoppix.net (700 MB). You also need to know how to burn raw data to CD-R. The book gives you all kinds of information about the different Linux distributions, appications, and how to use Linux, plus the included Knoppix CD is all set to run, so I think the book is worth the extra cost.

If want you to explore and learn about Linux without uninstalling Windows or making any changes to your PC, Knoppix is the way to go. Maybe someday everyone will carry a Knoppix CD and a CD-RW to use on any computer they find. That day will truly be the death of Windows.

Permission is granted for the below article to forward, reprint, distribute, use for ezine, newsletter, website, offer as free bonus or part of a product for sale as long as no changes are made and the byline, copyright, and the resource box below is included.

Computers and web cams are taking communication to levels only imagined in sci-fi novels.

One of the most incredible inventions I've ever come across is the web cam and its process of video conferencing. This is just so futuristic I can't believe they really exist and are readily available to anyone with the Internet, speakers, and the right software. I'm not absolutely sure but doesn't this spell the end of telephones? Now we can have conversations with people on the other side of the world, and see their face moving as we hear them speaking live.

Picture this: You're an Antarctic explorer on a solo journey in the middle of the ice and snow on your way to the South Pole. The only living creatures around are the slippery penguins sliding around having fun. You're in your special tent keeping safe from the intense wind from the blizzard outside. As you boil up water on your portable stove you flip open your laptop (with battery recharger, broadband Internet, and in-built speakers) and connect with your family back in Russia. You can see their smiles as you hear them speak. What a magical connection!

Another great aspect of video conferencing is the fact that you can communicate with whole groups of people at once either through networking a group of computers or by form of broadcast. This is a huge step forward for both companies and for schools. I've heard corporations have saved a lot of money and time, and students are enjoying learning this way much more than from a textbook. Informed people can talk to classes and help them learn, where otherwise they wouldn't be able to because of time and distance restrictions. This is also a bonus for children who have different learning styles. E.G. The more visual types who understand better when they can see what they're working with.

Feasibly, a surgeon in Japan could watch an operation in Australia and even ask the doctor in progress questions about procedures. It's obvious that video conferencing will both help humans evolve further through the sharing of knowledge as well as keep loved ones more connected when they are far from home.

A lot of people who are either fascinated or obsessed with sex will also tell you about the benefits of this technology for their voyeuristic purposes, but I'm not going to go there. Science Fiction has once again turned to reality, and I hope we can truly make the most of this invention created by humans who wish to make society a better place.

I am an Internet creative writer and journalist and yet knowledge of the technical side of computers still eludes me. As I work with tech-heads I've always had a feeling that they were a different breed of people, with their strange language of numbers and abbreviated terminology. I've also had the egotistical belief that because they are always sitting at their computers, that somehow they were missing out on life, as opposed to people like me who try to spend as much time in fresh air as possible. Well, I had a wake up call today when I asked a few of my colleagues about the changing world of communication, television, film, and advertising that has begun to evolve at an alarming rate since the advent of the Internet.

First of all, after a short discussion I realized these people are just like me, they do all the things I do in their spare time. Secondly, I came to understand that a lot of these so-called 'nerds' are actually at the forefront of this revolution of technology and ideas that are changing our world for the better. Their well-kept secret is this: As they are the people designing these technologies that harness the power of the human imagination, they are actually prophets who can see into the future. I'm not saying that they are gurus who have mastered all aspects of life, on the contrary, I still believe that most of contemporary society still needs to focus much more time and attention on internal growth and understanding of our emotions and thought processes. However, as the tech-head jobs are usually based around ideas about how to make the world function better, they are miles ahead when it comes to knowing about which systems are going to implemented in the future.

Take communication for example. When the telephone was first invented by Alexander Graham Bell a lot of people questioned the worth of being able to speak to someone that they couldn't see face-to-face. Of course after the benefits were discovered, the whole paradigm of communication drastically changed. Everyone now felt that it was 'necessary' to have a telephone. Many, many years later came satellites and with them the ability to talk to people on the other side of the world. Recently we've had huge cables constructed of optical fiber laid along the ocean floor, and with them came light-speed telephone and Internet connections. Well, the future of communication is now on the verge of a new revolution in paradigm as voice-over-Internet communication comes into existence and evolves.

A good example of this technology in its early stages can be found at http://www.skype.com/. Skype is a company whose service of computer-to-computer and even computer-to-phone communication has already had around 115 million downloads off the Internet. The reason that it is so popular now is that compared to a normal landline phone call, it is super cheap! A few of my friends and colleagues use it regularly so I'll tell you how it works. In the case of computer-to-computer voice communication, each person needs either a headset with built-in microphone and headphones, or a combination of microphone and computer speakers/headphones. At this stage you both also need a Broadband Internet connection, but let me tell you, until the big telephone and Internet corporations put a block on the current system (some US companies already have), you can now talk to people on the other side of the world for relatively free! The only cost seen is where the amount of time you speak is subtracted from your allowable download limit. Talking to someone for an hour on the other side of the globe hardly takes any download usage and as the Internet is the medium, the 'phone call' is actually better quality than a landline but with equal speed so there's no time delay of speaker to listener like in the days of satellites.

The computer-to-phone service does have a fee but it still costs less than the rates on a normal telephone, although my friend says that the quality isn't as good as the other Skype method yet. What does this mean for future communication in our world? It means eventually telephone companies will probably have to become Internet communication providers, and by that stage they will probably raise prices, as they will be losing so much of the revenue that they make now from overcharging on telephone services. It's kind of like the situation we have with fossil fuels versus environmentally friendly energy production. Even though the technology exists, the oil companies aren't going to bring it out until they've made every cent they can from the old technology.

However, as the Internet is a new medium where the general public has much more power and freedom from corporation and government constraints, this new technology has a much better chance of being implemented into our society straight away. 115 million downloads of Skype alone means that if the phone companies try and block this sort of communication completely, people probably won't stand for it. This is also an important fact as it means that Internet nerds have a much better chance of bringing their ideas to reality, compared with nerds in other areas of human progress that are controlled more by big money-makers. As for now, if I were you I'd get onto Skype or another Internet voice communication provider and save your hard earned cash for as long as you can.

Packet8 is broadband telephone and videophone service using VoIP offering a Virtual Office for both Business and Residential maybe used via International Plans.

Taking advantage of a technology called VoIP (voice over internet protocol), high-speed Internet connections and 8x8's expertise in designing videophones

More about Packet8 at http://tinyurl.com/59llv

Packet8 is a broadband telephone and videophone service like no other. Taking advantage of a technology called VoIP (voice over internet protocol), high-speed Internet connections and 8x8's expertise in designing videophones.

Packet8 offers a Virtual Office for both Business and Residential maybe used via International Plans.

Packet8 is an affordable and easy-to-use broadband telephone and videophone service. Designed with both residential and business customers in mind, Packet8 allows anyone with broadband (high-speed) Internet access to use their regular phone to make UNLIMITED calls to anywhere in the U.S. and Canada.

What do I get?

Unlimited calling for one low monthly rate.

When you subscribe to a Packet8 plan using our online store, you will be shipped a broadband telephone adapter (at no extra cost) or a standalone videophone (at a greatly discounted price) depending upon the plan. Along with the equipment, you will receive a 10-digit activation code. Packet8 will transfer your existing number or give you a new telephone number from the area code of your choice.

Packet8 offers several residential and business plans that are feature rich and include unlimited calling options. All plans include more cool features than are available from your old telephone company. Our retailer sellers may offer different packages, including free service months and rebates.

How does it work?

Packet8 routes your calls over the Internet.

By taking advantage of a technology called VoIP (voice over internet protocol), high-speed Internet connections and 8x8's expertise in designing videophones, Packet8 is the complete voice and video communication service. Packet8 sends all calls to and from you through the broadband phone adapter or the videophone, which then route the calls over the Internet, instead of using the traditional public telephone network. There are no extra numbers to dial, no special instructions and no talking through your computer. Just pick up your phone, hear a dial tone and dial any phone number. Incoming calls ring your phone the same as any traditional phone.

Packet8 Broadband Phone Service offers two VoIP business plans:

Virtual Office, our most comprehensive business platform, is a hosted Internet PBX solution comprised of powerful business class features including a customizable auto-attendant, 3-digit extension to extension dialling, 3-way conferencing, conference bridge, multiple call handling, business-class voicemail, hunt groups, that come with a superior business-quality phone with feature rich controls and unlimited calling plans to the United States and Canada. Learn more at http://tinyurl.com/59llv

Business 2000, a VoIP telephone service that includes a single direct-inbound-dial line, has a basic business feature set including voicemail, 3-way calling, call forwarding, caller ID and call waiting.

Broadband Phone Service - Residential Plans at http://tinyurl.com/59llv

Consumers can now enjoy unlimited local and long distance calling by adding Packet8 Broadband Phone Service (VoIP) to their high-speed Internet connections. There are several residential plans from which to choose, starting with Freedom Unlimited.

For consumers who live outside the U.S., the Freedom International plan allows you to have a U.S. phone number and make up 1000 minutes of calling to U.S. and Canadian phone numbers.

Residential subscribers who want to add pictures to their words, they can subscribe to the Freedom Unlimited VideoPhone plan. Using Packet8 VideoPhones and video and voice over Internet protocol technology, allows consumers unlimited time to see and hear loved ones.

Video in Color find out more at http://tinyurl.com/59llv

Make Unlimited Video and Regular Phone Calls With Packet8 VideoPhone!

As Simple to Use as a Traditional Phone.

With the same ease as making a regular telephone call, Packet8 VideoPhone delivers high-quality, full-motion video and clear, delay-free audio over any broadband (high-speed Cable or DSL) Internet connection. Designed with both residential and business customers in mind, this powerful standalone videophone will enhance your calls immeasurably while saving you money on your phone bill. Speak with color and see what you've been missing!

Using 8x8's Packet8 broadband phone service, Packet8 VideoPhone subscribers receive UNLIMITED video calling and regular calling in the U.S. and Canada for a low monthly flat-rate as well as enjoying UNLIMITED worldwide video and audio-only calling to other Packet8 subscribers.

KEY VIDEOPHONE FEATURES

Plug-and-play device has no need for monitor or TV, keyboard, mouse, microphone, speakers or computer!

Regular dialling to other Packet8 VideoPhone for video calling or any regular telephone for traditional audio-only call

High-quality CCD camera

Auto-focus range: 2" to infinity

Up to 30 frames per second video quality

5" High-quality LCD screen

Audio/Video output for larger, external screen display

And many, many more

International Plans

International Plans are great programs to keep in touch with family, friends and schoolmates across the globe. Programs include flat rate pricing for unlimited calling to US, Canada and specified countries with all the great Packet8 features.

Virtual Office

Hosted PBX with a Powerful Feature Set for Small/Medium-Sized Organizations
Sound big at any size! That's the power and appeal of Packet8 Virtual Office, the broadband Internet-based PBX service for small and mid-sized organizations with big ambitions.

Virtual Office allows Packet8 subscribers anywhere in the world to employ a hosted PBX that permits an unlimited number of extensions for staff located in the same building or spread far and wide around the world. In addition to enjoying unlimited calls anywhere in the United States and Canada for a flat monthly fee, as well as rock bottom per-minute international rates, Virtual Office provides smaller enterprises with numerous corporation-class PBX features.

Sounding gigantic while paying puny! Virtual Office gives your small organization geographic independence and flexibility, providing you with feature-rich telephones that bring together dispersed staff to sound like one office location or to appear as satellites offices located all over the world. Virtual Office virtually eliminates large long-distance telephone costs for intra-organization phoning.

All Packet8 subscribers get world wide UNLIMITED calling to other Packet8 subscribers at no extra charge. Calls to non-Packet8 international numbers (outside the U.S. and Canada) are charged at a very low per minute rate. Check our international rates at

M6.Net, a web-hosting company (What the hell is that?) has turned this techno-phobic writer into a working member of a new age information and communication team. Let me tell you a story, a story about a crazy company that sits high up in the clouds looking at its global community. I had always been afraid of computers, such a sterile environment, and no trees to sit under. Of course this has become redundant with the advent of laptops and Broadband Internet, but here's the truth of the matter: I believed computers were for geeks and nerds, and the radiation from the screens caused one to go sterile or infertile. The day I walked into M6.Net my assumptions were not altered.looking around at the bland walls, the plant-less vacuum of faces staring into screens tapping away foreign codes that only astro-chipmunks could comprehend.'Why am I here?' I thought as the people started to talk computer jargon to me. 'What do these freaks want with a creative writer? Let me out of here quick!'

After talking to one guy for about fifteen minutes he finally realized I didn't understand a thing he was saying. It was like I had just gotten off a spaceship on the planet Googamooga! Then one of the 'bosses' came over for a little chat. I say 'boss' because the owners of this company don't act like authorities or the top of a hierarchal chain. They say they'd rather see all humans as equals, "Don't call me sir, please call me Michael." he had said with a smile. This made me feel a tiny bit more relaxed; I still wanted to leave, as it just wasn't my kind of place if you know what I mean. Then Michael and I had an interview. He asked me if I knew anything about computers or the Internet. I said 'nope'. He said 'cool'. I knew then that I was in for an unexpected twist in my life's journey. Well, life is a mystery anyway, I guess I needed to learn not to 'judge a book by its cover', to spit out a cliché that has been used a few too times but with good reason.

This guy Michael then went on to ask me what I wanted to do with my life, where did I see myself in the future? I said I sure didn't see myself working for some Internet company. After a bit of relaxing laughter, Michael said it just might be pretty cool to hear from a perspective of a technological novice, as most of the world was in similar shoes as myself. He intimated that maybe some of the reasons people were so afraid of the Internet was because they had no one to relate to on a simple level when it came to working with the new mysterious, unknown technology. I said I'd be willing to give it a shot, and so began my adventure into the far reaches of 'cyberspace'. Luckily I already had a spacesuit from my intergalactic journeys taken in an overactive imaginary youth. I strapped in, we hit light speed, and the bland walls and monotonous tapping became a blurred rainbow and tribal rhythm in my consciousness. I realized eventually that I had been given a ticket to join in with the human evolution process. The Internet became the tool I had always needed to connect with the spirits of the terrestrial world.

After getting to know my team colleagues through face-to-face interaction and Messenger email chats in the open-spaced offices (no walls), I realized these people weren't mindless zombie aliens as I had once expected. These were real actual human souls like myself! I just couldn't believe it; my previous perception of computer nerds was destroyed. These people lived whole and exciting lives inside and outside the office. The reason they had once looked blank-faced was only because they had reached a deep level of concentration needed to solve the problems presented in this process of furthering humanity's communication possibilities. I now realize that each and every individual is constantly treading on worlds that will always be unknown to me.

M6.Net is a web-hosting company, that is true, but like every snowflake, everything in existence is individual. The things they do here, the ideas that are formed, these are like no other place in the Universe. Not everything good in life has to scream out its beauty. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and if one looks hard enough at anything you will see the hidden magic beneath the surface. I have discovered that a web-hosting company is helping the people of our world to unite, I mean, how many other web hosts have creative writers writing children's stories for education sites? These people have helped to teach me to 'look outside the box', to use another cliché. It's funny how clichés actually ring true. It's also funny how good things in life make life good.

"If You Had Problems in the Past with a Computer Virus,
Then You'll Want to Know How Easy it is to Setup Firewall
Protection"

By Steven Presar

You know the basics of computer virus protection -- don't
open email attachments' from senders that you do not know.
If you follow this simple rule, your computer will be safer
than most.

But a few weeks ago, a computer worm called "sasser", caused
havoc with Microsoft Windows computers throughout the world.

This sasser worm spread in a completely different way, not
bothering with email (the way most viruses spread) but
instead exploited a security hole in Microsoft Windows.

This security hole allowed any computer connected to the
internet to be infected. The worm spread and infected
computers almost invisibly, thus many people were caught by
surprise when their computer problems began.

A computer virus is a set of computer program instructions
that attaches itself to programs in other computers. Viruses
are often parts of documents that are transmitted as
attachments to e-mail messages. A worm is similar to a virus
but is a self-contained program that transports itself from
one computer to another through networks.

The most obvious symptom of sasser worm was that the
infected computer would automatically shut down - thus
making troubleshooting this worm a challenge to those
infected.

A Plan of Action for Small Business

One of the ways to prevent your computer from becoming
infected by a virus or worm like sasser would be by
installing a "firewall" on your computer system.

Any computer connected to the Internet, is vulnerable to
electronic worm or virus attacks. You are protecting your
computer system by setting a firewall between your computer
or networked computers (LAN) and the Internet.

A firewall examines, filters, and reports on the
appropriateness of all information that passes through your
computer network. A firewall may ensure that information
received from an outside source is as expected and does not
contain computer a virus or worm.

This protective barrier between your computer and the
Internet will monitor incoming and outgoing internet traffic
and warned you of virus or worm before your computers became
infected.

Microsoft Windows XP includes a firewall, but it may not be
enabled on your machine because Microsoft turns it off by
default.

If you have Microsoft Windows XP and would like to activate
your software firewall, follow these steps:

~ Within Microsoft Windows XP
~ Click on the Start button and then choose Control Panel
~ Click the Network and Internet Connections category (If
you do not see the Network and Internet Connections
category, click Switch to Category View under Control Panel
on the left side of the Control Panel window.)
~ Choose Network Connections.
~ Right-click the Dial-up, LAN or High-Speed Internet
connection(s) that you use to connect to the Internet
~ Click Properties from the menu
~ On the Advanced tab, under Internet Connection Firewall,
select "Protect my computer and network"
~ Then click OK.

You have now enabled your Windows XP firewall.

With your firewall now working, you will see a warning pop
up on screen if a virus or worm is trying to infect your
computer. You will be able to block them by denying them
access.

You'll find your access to the internet a little more
complicated now. The first time you run any internet related
program after activating the Microsoft firewall, it will
alert you again and ask you if it is OK for your Internet
Browser to connect to the Internet.

There are some computer security experts have criticized the
shortcomings of the Microsoft's Windows XP firewall. Thus,
there may be other software firewall packages that you may
want to look at. Some of the other firewall software
packages that you may want to look at are: Norton
(www.symantec.com), McAfee (us.mcafee.com), and ZoneAlarm
(www.zonelabs.com) software firewall packages.

What to look for in a Software Firewall

When choosing a firewall, consider such factors as:

~ ease of use,
~ cost,
~ technical support
~ control of incoming content (such as cookies, pop-ups,
JavaScript, ActiveX, etc.), and
~ the ability to control the firewall for access to more
trusted individual websites

Most firewall software packages can do the basic port
blocking needed to protect against typical virus or worm
that try to probe your system (like sasser). Other software
firewalls do not have important features like, allowing you
to control which websites that you will accept active
content (like cookies and pop-ups).

A good firewall program will also alert you when a software
application on your computer is trying to connect to the
Internet. This may help you detect whether a virus has
infected your system or whether spyware (software that
arrive on your computer without your knowledge) is trying to
report your personal profile details.

High Speed Internet Connections Firewall

If you are using a broadband Internet connection, such as
cable or DSL, you should use a hardware-based firewall in
addition to software firewall. Most of the router/hub
combinations you can buy for your computer system offer a
strong first line of defense against remote probes of your
computer. Plus, they are inexpensive, often costing less
than $20 after rebates.

Hardware based firewalls generally will not tell you when a
program on your own computer system seeks to access the
Internet. That is why, when you use a hardware firewall,
you need a software firewall installed as well.

Which Firewall is Best for Your Office?

Because of the number of incoming security threats to your
computer are so numerous and serious, the key point is that
you do have a software firewall, and if you are using a high
speed connection, a hardware firewall as well.

ZoneAlarm's firewall is a popular choice for personal use
because it can be download and use it for free. That
software firewall package may be a good starting point for
individuals new to firewall technology.

After you have your computer system secure, you might like
to check out some firewall options from, Nonags
(www.nonags.com) and PricelessWare (www.pricelessware.org).

It's becoming a better idea to have a firewall, at home and
business. It does require extra setup and is another layer
of software and hardware to navigate through to connect to
the Internet, but the piece of mind to keep your computer
system secure may be worth the effort.

When you want to access the Internet,you want to
have the fastest Modem connection possible.And
the dialup modem will do if you want just email
basic surfing.

The faster cable or dsl are a must have for such
internet downloads of large files,super faster web
page access,and viewing videos online.

Installing your new modem,whether its dialup,dsl,
or cable,it can be a breeze when you both make
the installation an education experience as well
as having fun in the process.

For this to happen,you must be prepared with the
right equipment.This article has links to videos
and photos to help do just that.High speed modems
will need an ethernet card in most cases,for example.

Let's take a deep down look at what it will take to
get a new Internal or External modem up and
running in your computer.

While we're at it,we will see what it takes to install
a cable or dsl modem as well.These modems are
always external but will need a couple for parts in
order to get that fast internet speed.

CONNECT THE MODEM TO THE COMPUTER

When installing your Modem,first right down the
serial number for use should you need to contact
technical support.

External modems are connected to the computer
with the RS232 cable.This cable is connected to
the rear of the system at the serial port and the
modem itself.Some modems will have this cable
as a part of the modem.

Internal modems are inserted in an expansion
slot on the motherboard,unless its intergrated
with the motherboard.

Provide power to the external modem with the use
of the adapter that with the modem.Internal modems
get their power from the expansion slot right on the
motherboard.

After the modem has been installed,both the external
and internal modem must be connected to the analog
phone line.Plug one end of the phone cord to the jack
labeled Line on the modem and the other into the
phone jack.You can then connect your telephone to
the phone jack on the modem.

INSTALL MODEM SOFTWARE

Now you can replace the system unit cover if you
are installing an internal modem.And after all
peripherals are re-connected to the computer,
boot the computer.

With external modems,simply turn the computer
and modem on.See if the power indicator is on.

If you have Windows 98 installed,insert the floppy
disk or cdrom containing the device driver into
the appropriate drive when the "add new hardware"
screen appears.Follow the instructions on the disk
to install the device driver.

Be sure to read the modem install manual carefully
to be sure all installation procedures were followed.
Click on fininsh once Windows find and install the
device driver.

Users of Windows XP have an updated list of device
drivers which may be present.Its best to use the disk
when installing the software.

TEST YOUR NEW MODEM

The device driver allow your modem to talk to your
computer.To see if the modem is working,click on
Start,Settings,Control Panel,and click the Modems
icon.

Read the description of the modem to be sure it
is the one you have.

Windows XP users should click on Start,Control
Panel,and click the Phone and Modems icon.
Then click Modem,Properties,and Diagnostics.
Run a Query Modem check to verify your modem
is up and running.

INSTALLING A CABLE OR DSL MODEM

Cable Modems are external and are connected to
the computer by a Cat5 Cable.This cables looks
like a regular modem data cable but is larger.

One end of the Cat5 Cable is inserted into the
rear of the cable modem while the other end is
inserted into a Network Interface Card.

This NIC card must be installed in an empty adapter
slot in the system unit and transfer data between
the computer and modem.

With the Cat5 cable connecting the modem and PC
together,you must provide the Internet signal to the
modem by connecting a coail cable to the modem.

This cable provides high speed internet access and
may use the same connection as your television.
One end of the coaxial cable connects to the modem
and the other is connected the cable TV connector.

If the connection is being used by the TV,a cable
adapter will split the signals and you can use one
connector for both your TV and the Internet.

DSL Modems also use the NIC card and Cat5 cable.
Some DSL modem require device drivers and either
a cdrom or diskette should come with the modem.

Once you connect to the Internet with a cable or dsl
modem,you'll most likely never go back to the slower
dialup version.

Onthe other hand,you just may want to keep your dialup
modem once you realize just how much more you're
going to invest when it comes to broadband Internet.

Since the choice is yours,learn all you can about all
modems,how they work,and how they connect to the
world wide web.Your internet experience will grow
by leaps and bounds if you do.

As I write this, it's early December, and try as I might, I can't remember what my new year's resolution was last time around. One thing I can say with near hundred percent certainty is that whatever it was, I failed to keep it. Maybe you're the same. Maybe you resolved to quit smoking, lose weight, or read more. We all make promises with ourselves, then fail to keep those promises. Worst of all, those promises might be exactly what we need most. Consider this: When was the last time you backed up your computer files? Last month? Last year? Never?

Let's make a new year's resolution together, you and I. Let's promise to back up our computers. It's important, I promise. Just yesterday the automatic backup feature in MS Word saved me about an hour's work when my computer froze up. Given that I haven't backed up my computer in almost a year, I can't even imagine how much data I'd lose if I suffered a power surge or hard drive failure. It can happen to the best of us, and often does. Even high end hard drive manufacturers report an average failure rate of between five and eight per thousand every year. That may not sound like much, but let's face it, somebody has to be those five to eight people. Feeling lucky? There are about 185 million household PCs in the U.S., according to Computer Industry Almanac, so that means about 150,000 hard drives fail each year. But even if your drive stays intact, about a tenth of all computers suffer minor data loss in any given year. A power surge, the magnets in your home stereo speakers, or even an accidental nudge can affect data storage. According to a report from the ONTRACK data recovery service, data loss can be caused by natural disasters (3% of cases), computer viruses (7%), software problems (14%), and plain old user error (a whopping 32%). Now, I'm sure you never hit a wrong keyboard button, but do you have a button on your computer that prevents a bolt of lightning? I didn't think so.

WHEREAS our data is important, and disaster can befall even the most noble and undeserving of us, BE IT RESOLVED that you and I shall back up our computer files forthwith.

Amen, brothers and sisters. Now, where and how do we start?

STEP ONE: Choosing Favorites

Not all files are important enough to preserve for posterity. The most critical files on a computer are its operating system files. If you're a good little consumer, you bought the operating system and kept those CDs handy and secure from data loss. If you're not, then remind yourself to go stand in the corner later. The drones at Microsoft did not work for years just to watch you steal their work. It's people like you that keep Bill Gates from buying his second planet. Now that you've been suitably chastised, either go buy a legal copy of the operating system, or include the necessary files in your "must back up" list.

The same principle goes for software applications. Maybe you bought an ad and spyware blocker you really like, but the company that coded it has since gone out of business (perhaps because other consumers weren't as scrupulous as you). If so, include the files you need to run the app in your must list.

Now it's time to look at the remaining files on your computer and prioritize. If you're not a digital packrat like me, it may be possible to save everything. If so, congratulations. I don't have ten gigabytes of portable media at my disposal, so when I back up my computer, I'll be leaving a few gigs of MP3s and questionable Windows Media files at risk. One of the first things I will save is the folder I use to save my writing assignments, because that data represents money in my pocket. I'll back up my email address book, plus my digital photography and fiction writing efforts. I can live without "Milkshake" (what was I thinking?), but the guitar piece my friend recorded and sent to me is going on the list. Your results may vary.

STEP TWO: In Which I Tell You Where You Can Put It

That's right, this is the section in which I'll tell you where to store your data. It's not a good idea to put backup files on another drive on the same computer. That defeats the whole purpose. Duplicating your files on another computer in the same LAN is almost as risky, because computer viruses can spread as fast as an imaginary Anna Kournikova JPEG. You need to find a portable storage medium that can hold all the files on your must list. Your options include floppy diskettes, portable hard drives, optical drives, tape drives, and remote servers. We'll look at each in turn.

Hard diskettes, the old familiar 3.5" squares, hold up to 1.44 megabytes of data. They're cheap, but 1.44 MB is less than two percent of the ten gigs of data on my hard drive. Even if each of those files were smaller than 1.44 MB (and each weren't), I'm not keen on the idea of buying, labeling, and storing fifty diskettes. Next idea, please.

Most computer experts rely on removable hard drives for memory backups. The most popular of these drives are the Zip drive from Iomega and the ORB drive from Castlewood. They're relatively inexpensive and hold up to two gigs of data. Basically, you'll save your data on a Zip disk, then transfer it from the disk to the portable drive. The catch is that removable drives fail about as often as regular hard drives. They may even be more susceptible to damage from dust and rough handling. A sub-option here is to use a permanent hard drive as a removable drive. At up to two hundred gigs, conventional hard drives are bigger than removable drives, and prices have dropped enough in recent years to make this idea practical. Whatever kind of hard drive you decide to use, make sure to keep it isolated from dust, magnetic charges, and static electricity.

Optical drives use a laser to store information, rather than a magnet. Even if you're not a tech junkie, that's probably enough information to give you a clearer idea what we're talking about: namely, CDs and DVDs. Less common are EO (erasable optical) and WORM (write once, read many) media; they're less common because they cost over $1000 per drive. CDs, on the other hand, cost less than a buck and can hold up to 650 megabytes. DVDs hold up to five gigs and cost about fifteen dollars apiece. Most computers nowadays have either a CD or DVD writer (or both), but write times can be slow. My CD writer, for example, works best on the 300 kilobyte per second setting-if then. I'll be using the remote server option. At $250 and up, tape drives are more expensive and slower than hard drives or optical media, hence less common, but also extremely reliable.

Remote servers are third party companies that store data online for a fee. This is a great option for broadband Internet users, especially people like me who don't own a reliable data writer. SkyDesk runs Backup.com, Back-Up Solutions maintains BackUpHelp.com, and Iomega hosts iServer (Iomega.com/iStorage). XDrive.com, once a free service, now charges ten bucks a month for up to five gigs of storage. Promotions and other rates change, so it's a good idea to shop around before selecting a remote storage service.

STEP THREE: Git 'er Done

Now it's time to put the files you want to save on the storage medium you've chosen. There are several ways to do this. Your CD writer, for example, may come with proprietary disk writing software. That application may even include a backup option. If it does, and you're more familiar with that software than Windows features, then that's the way to go. Otherwise, backup is still relatively easy on all MS operating systems since Windows 98. Windows 98, Windows ME, and Windows XP Professional include a built-in Backup utility. To run it, just click on Start, then Programs, then Accessories, then System Tools, then Backup. How easy was that? If you're using the XP Home edition, you may need to add the utility manually. If so, insert the Windows XP CD into your disk drive and wait for the "Welcome to Microsoft Windows XP" screen. (You may need to double-click the CD icon in My Computer.) Then click on Perform Additional Tasks and Browse This CD. In Windows Explorer, double-click the ValueAdd folder, then Msft, then Ntbackup. Double-clicking on Ntbackup.msi will install the utility. Once it's installed, you can also run the program by clicking Start and Run, then typing msbackup.exe (Windows 98 and Windows ME) or ntbackup.exe (Windows XP) in the Open field. Click OK, and you'll be off to the races.

Incidentally, the Windows XP Backup utility also includes a bonus application called the Automated Recovery Wizard. This creates a bootable floppy that initiates backup if the hard drive must be replaced. Other options for "disaster recovery" include BackUp MyPC from Stomp (StompInc.com, $79) and Norton Ghost 9.0 from Symantec (Norton.com, $69.95). Ghost actually allows users to duplicate the contents of their computer over the Internet. Both have earned stellar reviews from top PC magazines.

Don't let another month go by without protecting the files you value most. My girlfriend justifies her messy car by saying she "lives out of it." Well, I live out of my computer. It's not just my office; it's the home of cherished memories in the form of pictures, MP3, and other data files. I'm resolved to keep it safe.