IT Top Tips

By Greg Young and Warren Cary

Q. What is the most economical domain name registry?

A. There are a large number of registrars worldwide. It’s recommended to choose a local registrar like Netregistry or Melbourne IT. You will find Netregistry cheaper than MEL IT.

Q. What searches should I do before I reserve my domain name?

A. http://whois.ausregistry.net/whois/whois_local.jsp

This will allow you to determine if the name you’re after is available.

Q. What documentation do I need to secure a domain name?

A. An ACN or ABN for .com.au. None for .com

Q. Should I register the dot net, com or org or all three of my selected domain name?

A. Depending on the global reach you’re after a .com or com.au will do. It also depends on what is available that is in line with your desired name

Q. What company is the most economical for web and email hosting?

A. There are many hosting providers worldwide. Choosing a local company and supporting the Australian IT industry should be high on your list. A local reseller of these services can tailor the best package for you depending on your needs and of cause offering local phone support is important when you are getting started.

Q. Why do I need a fire wall on my home computer?

A. A hardware or software firewall will help to minimize malicious attempts to access your home network from the outside world. This should not be your only line of defence. Keeping windows up to date along with a solid Anti-Virus solution will help to reduce the likelihood of attack

Q. How many email accounts can I have?

A. As many as you need. Whatever it takes to get you started.

Q. If I have a Wireless Router how do I prevent others from accessing my network?

A. When buying and installing a wireless router ensure you lockdown the security on your wireless network by using the built security options. WPA security is one method that will allow you to allocate a key that locks your network down only allowing welcome users to access the internet.

Q. If I need to purchase a new computer what do you recommend being the minimum hardware specifications?

A. Choosing a quality name brand like HP,Lenovo or DELL will ensure you get the latest and best hardware available. Look to buy a system with a 3 year hardware warranty onsite as part of the package to protect your investment.

Q. If I need to purchase new computer software what version do you recommend?

A. Microsoft offers a number of different operating systems and office suites. This can be confusing. We suggest you stick with Windows Vista Business as your operating system and Office 2007 Basic or Small Business as your office suite

Q. If I need to purchase a new printer what minimum hardware specifications would you recommend?

A. The best buys are the multi-functions or MFC’s. Don’t be sucked in just by price. HP , Fuji Xerox, Epson and Brother make some great MFC’s at very affordable prices. You just need to determine if you want B & W Laser or Colour Laser. From here ask what the consumables will cost to replace.
Straight out of the box you’ll get a starter kit of toner which lasts around 1500-2000 pages. The full toner can cover off 4000-6000 pages.

Q. I want to read my email on my Mobile phone. What should I know?

A. You’ll need a Windows Mobile Device, Blackberry or a phone that supports email. Connecting to your email can get made easier by working with a hosting provider that understands your needs.

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