Many books are targeted at the computer-savvy crowd. Our goal was to create something so that even the reader who is a computer novice would feel comfortable going through the steps to build a network, know why they took the steps they did, and sleep at night knowing they have a functional, secure, and easy to use network. If we can get a laugh here and there out of the readers, so much the better.

One feature of the book worth pointing out is the participation we got from our friends at the Geek Squad. These guys are hands down the best "home network support group" on the planet. They were kind enough to help review our book, and inserted many good tips and bits of wisdom for our readers. They also took the opportunity to poke some fun at us (the authors) along the way. Just to show we were good sports we kept their comments in the book for our readers to enjoy.

David: Why is this stuff so complicated?

Jim and Neil: Well that's just it; it doesn't have to be complicated. It seems complicated because the technology is new to most people. There's a new language associated with the technology, and a lot of "free" advice out there that's misleading or flat out wrong. The technology also moves extremely fast, so what you knew yesterday will be different than what you need to know tomorrow.

Another factor is the myriad of options out there. Computer and networking manufacturers often try to make their products do everything for everyone in every situation. What often results is what we like to call the "egg-laying-milk-pig", the product that does many things, but can be difficult to get to do what you want.

One word of advice is to write it down, keep a notebook of what you plan to do, what you did, and the results. That way if you do run into issues, you have a record you can show someone more knowledgeable to get help.

David: What are the advantages of wireless networking?

Jim and Neil: Two words: fast and flexible. A wireless network provides instant connectivity from just about anywhere in or near your house. Most families now have more than one computer. The alternative is to run network cables through your house to reach your computers, and that just isn't practical for most people.

With wireless, you can literally set up a network throughout your entire house in a matter of minutes, without the hassle and expense of cables. Wireless allows computers to be placed wherever you want to use them. You can also use your laptop away from your home in coffee shops, airports, hotels, etc.

David: Just how much of a problem is security for regular Internet users?

Jim and Neil: Many people have serious security flaws in their network, even "regular Internet users". One of the main problems is that most people associate security with a single problem, such as computer viruses or identity theft. The reality is, there are numerous threats, each requiring unique attention and solutions.