Wise Owl Opportunities - Internet Queries

Here's the last of our question and answer session. Keep your questions coming though, I love hearing from you!

Dropped connections are annoying. Although it is most common with dial-up adapters, it is also seen in "always on connections" such as DSL or Cable Modem. Transient noise on a line is one of the main culprits along with storms, wind, etc.

Our computers require quiet lines for data input. They are extremely sensitive to any type of static or noise. This results in lost connections. Additionally, some Internet Service Providers will kick you off after a period of inactivity. Even worse, some will kick you off after a lengthy session even if you have been active. Check with your provider if you have any questions.

Well, it depends. First, how often do you use the Internet? Would you use it more if it was faster? If you have installed a second line for the purpose of your computer connection, you'll probably find it doesn't cost more, since your additional line will no longer be required.

When you access the Internet via a high speed connection, you will immediately notice a big difference. Not only will Web sites load instantaneously, but you'll be able to gain access to sites incorporating effects that require the faster speeds. Even more apparent is the lack of lengthy dial-up and login procedures. Simply getting rid of these transform your whole experience.

Yes. The frequency of the attacks can be related to credit card fraud from usage in retail shops or to your house be burglarized. So, how lucky do you feel? Things happen and data has been known to be hijacked on the Internet.

As long as you exercise some common sense, you'll be fine. Make sure the vendor you are giving your information to is reliable (pick up the phone and call them if you're not sure). And, never, ever send any sensitive information such as Social Security Numbers, Credit Card Numbers, etc via e-mail. Remember e-mail is like a post card, anyone can (and will) look at the information.

We've all come across the File Not Found (Error 404) message at one time or the other. Sometimes, the site you're calling is simply gone. If the company goes out of business, so to does their website. Sometimes, though, the site is just undergoing maintenance. Webmasters take sites off the Internet on a normal basis for updates and general maintenance. So, try again in a few hours or the next day and see if it works. You might also try looking it up in a search engine, it's possible that the address has changed and you just need the forwarding number.

If you're not sure if it's you're machine or the site go somewhere else. I always test my connections with a "major site" such as Microsoft, or Yahoo or Excite, etc. If you can get there, you're okay and it's the other guy!