February 5, 2012

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Verizon FiOS

Image representing Verizon as depicted in Crun...

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With all the buzz about new networks, accessories, coverage and service for your home communication systems, its easy to see why many consumers can become overwhelmed with all that’s being offered. At the forefront of many communication debates is Verizon FiOS, a home communication service that bundles internet, telephone and television service into one easy to use program. Verizon FiOS offers a reliable fiber optic home communications network offered in various parts of the United States by Verizon Communications. Verizon lays claim as the first major carrier in the U.S. to offer fiber optic services within the home, a key marketing point the company often plays up in its advertising efforts. As such, Verizon has received the highest ratings from consumer reports regarding internet service providers and cable television programmers. Unlike the competition, which relies strictly on cooper or coax infrastructure, Verizon’s use of fiber optic cables places the company at the forefront of the ongoing communications challenge.

Verizon FiOS is often considered a reliable home communications system due to its reliance on fiber optic cables and passive optical network technology. This allows for data, video and voice to travel within the infrared spectrum in three different wavelengths. One wavelength is devoted specifically to carrying television channels. The second and third wavelengths are devoted entirely to carrying data and voice, such as videos on demand, telephone services and internet. While Verizon FiOS is touted as reliable and consistent, internet speeds mainly depend on and vary according to service area and customer location. There are certain factors that can minimize or maximize services from your direct.tv connection to your Internet speed.

In 2010 Verizon announced that it would diminish its FiOS expansion in areas that were not already set up to handle the service. Instead the company will focus on completing FiOS installation in areas that can more easily accommodate the platform.

Filed Under: Internet, Technology Tagged With: , ,

Avoiding Scams While Gaming Online

339/365 Slot Machine 

Image by findingthenow via Flickr

Online gaming is a fun way to enjoy your computer or web-ready cell phone. There are many legitimate websites where people can enjoy playing games, and online games are just one fringe benefit of the technology available today.

These gaming sites are popular all over the world, but if you are an American or European consumer, you need to know which sites are most friendly to you.

While being scammed is always a possibility for all Internet users, online gamers who give their credit card or other personal information out online are at particular risk. This does not mean it is not safe to play online games, it only means you should use caution. Always have proper antivirus software and other protection in place when you play online.

Of course, you can take other preventive measures to avoid scams, including the following things:

  • Check the website’s financial institution to make sure it is reputable and legitimate.
  • Recognize reputable websites that offer the information, not just hype.
  • Use a prepaid credit card for online transactions to protect your bank accounts and credit rating from hackers and disreputable websites.

If you use caution, playing games online is a fun and safe pastime. Remember, scams can happen anywhere, not just when you are online. When protected from potential scammers, you can enjoy your computer and portable devices more comfortably.

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Filed Under: Internet

Staying Safe Online

 

The worlds cities connection via internet 

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In today’s technological world, most people spend a majority of their time online. We work, play, research, and even do homework online. The Internet is a wonderful thing, but it can also be a scary place. The reality is, there are hackers out there who are looking to steal innocent people’s information – often those who have no idea that a hacker is into their personal files.

 

But, there is hope. You can stay safe while online by following a few simple steps. See below for three ideas for staying safe while on the Internet.

1.       Get anti-virus software. The number one way to protect your identity and your personal information online is to get anti-virus software. There are a number of companies out there willing to help you here. Try Norton, TrendMicro, of McAfee to start.

2.       Never give out your personal information. You want to keep as anonymous as possible online. If you blog, never post pictures or other information that would divulge your location. Are you on social media sites? Be sure to keep your phone number and your address private. It’s pretty easy for a hacker to find out who you are with just a little bit of information, so be careful.

3.       Use a secure connection. Sure, it might be tempting to just use your neighbor’s internet connection, but this can also be dangerous. You want to get your own, secure network in order to keep hackers at bay. Your own internet connection is a small price to pay for security.

Remember to play it safe while you are online. Are you following these simple guidelines?

Filed Under: General, Internet Tagged With: , ,

3 Top Computers for Gaming

Need a computer for gaming? If you’re in the market for a new computer, there are some top choices that you should consider. Here are a few suggestions that you might consider, which will allow you to game without worrying about your system keeping up.

  1. Dell Studio XPS 7100: With great gaming performance, the Dell laptop is an affordable option for gamers, with a great deal of customization available. The value is there for the Dell; it will be great for graphics-intensive games or online bingo alike.
  2. Falcon Northwest Talon: For serious gamers, this system offers wonderful performance, though you may have to spend extra. Even if money isn’t an option, though, you will receive a lot around the base configuration. It has doubled the performance of more expensive systems, according to some sources.
  3. Alienware M18x: If you’re looking for a gaming laptop, you could do worse than an offering from Alienware. This is an 18” model which features a beautiful HD display and up to 32 GM of memory, featuring Extreme Edition Intel Core i7 processors.

Read reviews on candidates in order to evaluate your options. Computer gaming can be a difficult industry to buy a system for, but you want to consult as many sources as possible. After all, this should be a system you’ll have for years. Also, be aware of your gaming needs. If you don’t play graphics-intensive games that much, you could get away with a more normal system with plenty of RAM. Consult your games to see where you stand. If you do play graphic-intensive games, confirm that the graphics card is compatible with those games.

Filed Under: Computers

How to Remain Safe on Social Networking Sites

Social networking sites are growing in popularity and are gaining users daily. Social sites such as MySpace, Facebook and Twitter can be great fun but joining them also may pose risks. Safety is of the utmost concern when using any social site.

Almost every social site that can be joined has a profile page. This page is the page that needs tailored down for most users. Yes you can list name, address, phone number, email and where you work but stop and think about it? Would you give a total stranger that information on the street? Protect your privacy. When you list such information on a social site that is exactly what is being done. Limit the information given out, especially when your profile page is open for all to see.

Downloading photos to a social site is as common as tweeting or creating a status on Facebook. Not every photo should be considered appropriate for public viewing. Use common sense; once it’s out there, it’s out there. Employers are increasingly using Google to perform reference checks. Do you really want that search to turn up a picture of you at a wet T-shirt contest at a bar?

 

Image representing Twitter as depicted in Crun... 

Image via CrunchBase

Let’s face it we live in a dangerous world and children on social networking sites are a pedophiles’ dream. Be especially vigilant in monitoring children or teen’s accounts if you allow them to have one. Be sure they know each and every person they are adding as “friends” personally.

 

Social networking sites can be fun but they can be dangerous. Be sure to be vigilant regarding the information and content you add to yours.

 

Filed Under: Internet, Technology Tagged With: , ,

Ideas to Help Choose a Computer

Buying a computer can be very very complicated. There are so many out there with many different features and uses. Since it is such an investment, when starting a search for a computer there are some things you can do to help find the right one.

Do your homework. There are many sources available for information about computers. Read different types of reviews including those from experts, and everyday users. Many users are willing to offer their opinions on the product and used it on a regular basis. They will be able to find things they liked and didn’t like about it and you can decide if they would pertain to you.  Also, make sure the computer has the capabilities that are necessary for the various activities you plan to do.  Whether you like to play online bingo or download movies, make sure the computer has the speed and memory to do so.

First look online and then go into the store. You can find something you like online, but then go into the store to see it and touch it. You may like how something looks, and then get to the store and find out you don’t like how the mouse or the keyboard feels. You also want to see how bright the monitor is. If you like it, and the price is better online, you can always go home and order it.

Look for sales. When you are in the market for a new computer be on the lookout for store flyers and weekly specials. There are always new models coming out, so take advantage of a retailer who may want to make room for newer models coming in to the store. Don’t throw away those flyers you get in the mail, you might be able to take advantage of what they are offering.

Look for good support. Most computers are essentially the same, what makes the difference is the customer support the brand offers. Ask around to find out who has given the best support for their product both online and on the phone. A good warranty is also essential. Compare the warranties for different brands before making a decision.

Filed Under: Computers, Shopping Tagged With: , ,

Where to Play Bingo

The game of bingo received wide popularity within the U.S. during the 20th century, but its roots date back to the 1530s with a state run lottery that began in Italy and was known as “Lo Gioco del Lotto d’Italia”. Bingo in the U.S. was made popular by a struggling toy salesman known as Edwin S. Lowe, and today 48 states offer legal forms of bingo to some degree.

There are all types of bingo players, from all age groups. Many people became aware of the traditional form of bingo as children and found it fun, entertaining, and an opportunity to win money and prizes. Today you can visit websites that teach you how to choose an online bingo game if you’re hosting a reception or party. It’s a great way to get together and have fun, and also gives you and your friends and family an adrenaline rush when you realize you’re a winner and can shout out the word BINGO!

Nowadays, due to the busy lives we all lead, playing bingo online has become widely popular because of its convenience. With online bingo, you don’t miss out on socializing either, as thousands of people each day make friends and compete with one another while playing bingo online. An added benefit of many online bingo sites is that they have chat rooms where players can converse with one another and play games. Another benefit of playing bingo on a dedicated website is that you can play in a friendly and safe environment, and also have the chance of winning special jackpots, bonuses and exclusive promotions.

Filed Under: Computers

Technology and Kids’ Social Lives

Technology has done a lot of wonderful things for society.  However, too much technology can impede on your child’s non-Internet social development.  Although technology will remain a vital tool for business and socializing, you need to teach your child how to develop face to face social skills as well.

Make Them Go Outside

Has your child been chatting on Facebook all day?  Pull the plug on the computer and make your child socialize with a friend.  Your child may complain that he is already socializing with his pals on the web, but you know as he gets older games of football and capture the flag will make better memories than posting pictures online.

Do It For the Sake of Spelling

The Internet is ruining the way kids use spelling and grammar.  Between instant messaging and texting, abbreviations are out of control.  Face to face communication can force children to speak in more complete words and sentences. Also encourage your kids to write an old fashioned letter to a friend who has moved away or a cousin.

The Internet is Cold

In person, it is easier to hear someone’s tone. Things like sympathy, sarcasm, joy and other emotions can be hard to express over the web.  Face to face play dates will help your child practice their mannerisms. As your child gets older, lacking face to face social skills can ruin their interview at a college or for a job.  The Internet also takes away physical interaction.  Hugs from a friend and a high five after winning a game are important moments  that should happen often.

Filed Under: Technology Tagged With: , ,

Work Out with Technology

Video games used to be a source of sedentary entertainment for both adults and kids.  These days modern technology has changed that.  Video game lovers can now play video games and get fit at the same time.

Wii Just Dance 2

Wii Just Dance 2 is a game that allows up to four people to play at once.  Players hold the controllers in their hands and can dance regularly while the system scores them or can choose to play specific games like a race or Simon says.  One great thing about this game is that it has a variety of songs ranging from Wham to the Pussycat Dolls to Tina Turner so there is fun to be had by people of all generations.  Playing a few consecutive song in a row can have you really breaking a sweat.

Kinect by Xbox

Kinect by Xbox has games that function similarly to Just Dance 2 except for the fact that you do not need a controller.  While the Wii games score based on motion of the right hand, the Xbox connect dance games score based on movement of the entire body.  The system can sense your body movements. This seems to be the newest advancement in the dance gaming industry.

Michael Jackson: The Experience

The Michael Jackson dance game is also made by Wii.  How it differs from games such as Just Dance 2 is that the graphics are a lot better and the images really resemble Michael Jackson videos.  This game is perfect for Michael Jackson lovers.  Players can choose to be Michael or a back up dancer.  The only draw back to this game is that non Michael Jackson fans can get bored of it quickly.

Filed Under: Technology Tagged With: , ,

The Most Addictive Facebook Games

Facebook can be a great place to connect with friends and family.  It can also be a great place to promote your business.  But beware, Facebook has tons of addicting games that can distract you from doing work or cleaning the house.

Farmville

This game by Zygna allows players to make a virtual farm.  Although at first this may sound boring, once you log on you can see how hard it is to stop playing this game.  Players can win mastery signs for planting a certain amount of specific groups.  The game is also very interactive allowing players to post mystery eggs and other items in the Facebook newsfeed to win prizes for their farm.  Farmville is always publishing new content such as holiday games and more.

Bejeweled Blitz

Think of this game as a shiny version of Tetris.  Players have to line up specific jewels in a row to make them disappear and earn points.  As players are busy matching u jewels, more jewels are raining down from the top of the screen.  If you let too many jewels build up to the top level you will lose.  This game is simple and hard to stop playing.

Family Feud

Similar to the TV game show, the Family Feud game on Facebook allows players to answer random questions and earn points if their answers appear on the board.  Players have a chance to try and win the bonus round by themselves to earn coins.  If a player does not make it to 200 points on their own in the bonus round, they can send out a request to other Facebook friends for help.

Filed Under: Internet, Technology Tagged With: , ,
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