Gateway DX4822 Quick Start & Troubleshooting Manual

Gateway DX4822 Quick Start & Troubleshooting Manual Manual pdf 20 page image

20 -Quick Start & Troubleshooting GuideF IRST STEPS ON THE NETProtecting your computerIt is vital to protect your computer from viruses and attacks over the Internet (see Internet Security Offer on page15 and Security on page 28). An comprehensive Internet security program is proposed when you first start yourcomputer. You should activate this protection as soon as possible, certainly before you connect to the Internet.Choose an ‘Internet Service Provider’Using the Internet has become a natural part of daily computing. Just a few simple steps canconnect you to a vast collection of knowledge and communication tools. To accomplishthese steps you should first select an Internet Service Provider (ISP), which supplies theconnection between your computer and the Internet. You should research the ISPs availablein your region, not forgetting to talk to friends and family about their experiences or tocheck reviews and consumer reports. The ISP you select will provide instructions on how toconnect to the Internet (you may need additional software or a special ‘box’ that connectsto your phone line).Connection TypesDepending on your computer model, your location and your communication needs, you have several ways toconnect to the Internet.Dial-UpSome computers include a telephone dial-up (‘modem’) connector. This allows you to connect to the Internet usingyour telephone line. With a dial-up connection, you cannot use the modem and the telephone simultaneously on asingle phone line. This type of connection is recommended only if you have limited use of the Internet as theconnection speed is low and connection time is typically charged per hour.DSL (e.g. ADSL)DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is an ‘always-on’ connection that runs over the phone line. As DSL and phone do notuse the same frequencies, you can use your telephone at the same time you are connected to the Internet (thisrequires a ‘micro-filter’ on each telephone socket to avoid interference). To be eligible for DSL, you must be locatednear an DSL-equipped phone exchange (service is sometimes unavailable in rural areas). Connection speeds varydepending on your location, but DSL generally provides very fast and reliable Internet connection. As theconnection is always-on, it is generally charged at fixed monthly rates.Note: A DSL connection requires an appropriate modem. A modem is usually provided by the ISP when youregister. Many of these modems include an ‘router’ that provides network and wi-fi access.CableA cable connection provides fast and ‘always-on’ Internet service via a cable television line. This service is generallyavailable in large cities. You can use your telephone and watch cable TV at the same time you are connected to theInternet.3G (WWAN or 'Wireless Wide-Area Network')A 3G connection allows you to use cellular networks (such as those used by a mobile phone) to connect to theInternet while away from home. The socket for a SIM card may be built in to your computer, or may require anexternal device, such as a USB modem or even an appropriately equipped mobile phone.Note: If your computer includes a SIM card slot, you require a compatible SIM card and a contract with acellular provider.Before using the 3G features, check with your service provider to see if any additional charges will be incurred,especially roaming charges.