Hamachi

A lot of times, for a lot of things, you need to be connected to another computer via a LAN (Local Area Network). You might say, "But we're connected on the internet!" Sometimes, this is not enough. For easy file-sharing, playing games against each other, or just being connected. Some advantages of LANs are that they have vastly superior data transfer rates, and instead of having to e-mail it to the other person, you can just drag it onto their hard disk. Also, if you want to play games against each other, but you only have one disk, you're allowed to play over LAN. But where is this going?

The LogMeIn application, a program designed to allow connection from a remote location to another system, has been taken to the next level with the same company's Hamachi. This downloadable client, similarly to LogMeIn, allows remote access, but two ways. It places your computers on a LAN - over the internet. This can be useful for a variety of reasons, and is worth giving it a try. In addition, Hamachi is simple to use. You only have to click the power button, join a network, and go online for easy access. Download it at the LogMeIn website, or here. Good luck, and happy networking!

Skype

How many times have you been working on a document at home, and want advice on it from a peer? Either you have to send them an e-mail and wait hours for them to respond, or walk upstairs and call them, having to do so every time you need advice. Well, that is over. With the free-to-download Skype, you can make phone calls from PC to PC, free of charge. There are millions of users worldwide, and, as it is easy to get and configure, you could get your whole network of friends to use it very easily. Skype also doubles as a chat program, so if you or your friend don't have microphones, or need to be quiet, the chat program provides a useful alternative. Also, you can play free games online against any of your Skype contacts such as Bingo, poker, and Chinese Checkers. A telephone, a chat program, and a wealth of free online applications at your fingertips, with one download at the Skype website, can be yours. Easy to set up and free to use, Skype is an easy application that will make your working at home much easier.