Connecting to the Internet

Connecting to the Internet isn't free. For starters, computer users have to purchase the computer equipment necessary to make the connection. The Internet service provider charges computer users a monthly fee that depends on the speed and capacity of the connection. For small and home offices, the two most popular methods of connecting to the Internet are cable and digital subscriber line. If computer users' network is large and high‐speed Internet access is a high priority, contact their local phone company about installing a dedicated high‐speed digital line. If computer users' network is connected to the Internet, a whole host of security issues bubbles to the surface. All network traffic into and out of the local area network must pass through the firewall, which prevents unauthorized access to the network. Windows includes a built‐in firewall that provides basic packet‐filtering firewall protection.