Kim Komando - Daily Download

Tools to make home networking easier

Today, almost every home has a computer network. Most of us use Wi-Fi networks. You can have a computer in every room without running miles of wires. And all of your networked computers can work together.

Home networking is really useful. But that doesn't mean it's always easy. In fact, it’s one of the more difficult things in computerdom. Tweaking your home network can be very complicated. You need the right tools to get the job done.

inSSIDer—Setting up a Wi-Fi network isn't too difficult—in theory, at least. But, you may face obstacles getting it to work correctly. Where should you place your router for the best coverage? Are you getting interference from your neighbor's Wi-Fi? This program lets you check all the Wi-Fi networks in your area. This will help you troubleshoot any possible problems. You’ll get the most out of your home network.

RouterPassView—It's important to secure your wireless router. You don't want uninvited guests on your network. You’re on the hook if they do something illegal like download child porn. But locking down your router means one more password to remember. And it's one you likely won't use very often. What do you do if you lose it? This program may be able to help you retrieve it.

OpenDNS—What's Google's Web address? If you said, "www.google.com" you're close. The actual address your computer needs is something like 66.102.7.104. But you can't be expected to remember that. That's where DNS comes in. It converts the address you know into numbers computers understand. OpenDNS makes this process faster and safer.


Cost: Free
System:
RouterPassView—Windows XP, Vista and 7
inSSIDer—Windows XP, Vista and 7
OpenDNS—Windows XP, Vista and 7, Mac OS X