Technology primers

Quickly learn the basics about complex technologies. Each of our primers consists of a 5-to-10-minute explanation. Most have slides that accompany the narration, along with links that will get you to more in-depth information. RealPlayer or Windows Media Player is required to view the presentations.

ATM
A network technology that uses a discrete packet sizes to move data on a network and to provide quality of service for voice, video and other time-sensitive applications.

Digital Rights Management (DRM)
DRM is not just about music and movies. We give you ten things you should know about implementing DRM technology in the enterprise.

Disaster recovery planning
We take a look at how to start the disaster recovery planning process, what needs to be included in a plan and some of the options that are available.

DSL vs. Cable
If you've been thinking of high-speed Internet connections for a small business or remote office, you may be wondering whether to go with DSL or cable modems. In this primer, we'll explain and compare the two technologies.

IPv6
IPv6, under development by the IETF, is designed to expand the number of IP addresses and create an easier system for managing network-connected devices.

IP Multicast
A bandwidth-efficient method for broadcasting data or streaming media across a network.

Storage-area networks
Unlike stand-alone servers, a storage area network distributes resources over a scalable, redundant network of servers and storage devices.

Streaming Media
Streaming media is making a big push into the corporate environment. Learn how it works and what it is being used for in this 10-minute primer.

Videoconferencing
A look at the technology involved in creating a videoconferencing system. This is a must listen for companies looking to save money on travel.

Virtual private networks (VPN)
VPNs encrypt corporate data for travel over the public Internet.

Wireless LANs
Wireless LANs can make it easy to support a roving workforce, but pitfalls abound. In this 8-minute primer we take a look how wireless LANs are setup, the challenges involved and the varied specifications underlying the technology.

Wireless LAN security - basic
Wireless LANs offer many potential benefits, but also bring a host of security issues. In this 5-minute primer we take a look at technologies and techniques for securing a small office/home office wireless LAN.

XML
Extensible Markup Language (XML) can be used to store and share data across platforms and applications. Learn the technology's history, benefits and drawbacks in this 10-minute primer.

Are there technologies you'd like to hear a primer on? Let us know!

For information on how to sponsor an audio primer, contact Jamie Kalbach.

Player downloads: