How-tos are detailed posts that explain how stuff works and how to get things done. All how-tos on Dong Knows Tech are based on real-world experience or hands-on testing.
The MAC address is a critical element of networking, and you’ll learn all about it in this post. However, the first thing to remember is that a MAC address differs from an IP address, although the two coexist nicely. You can even say one depends on the other. That said, it’s …
You walk around the house and, at times, can see the Wi-Fi signal strength bars on your device move up or down. If you ever wonder what changes when you lose a bar or gain one, this post is for you. You’ll learn, in simple terms, what dBm is, how it applies …
When it comes to network storage, I’d recommend a real NAS server. However, a good server can be expensive. Plus, not everyone wants, needs, or has time to configure all the features. So, the second-best option is to use what you likely already have: the Wi-Fi router USB port. It’s …
At one point or another, you might have wondered how to conduct a proper Wi-Fi speed test or how to determine the speed of your Internet connection. In this post, you’ll learn what an Internet connection entails and how to figure out your absolute broadband speed. Take “absolute” with a …
This post will briefly explain Wi-Fi HaLow, a new standard that extends the use of Wi-Fi to low-bandwidth devices. Since its beginning, Wi-Fi has evolved to be “faster” by increasing the frequencies and bandwidth. That approach comes at the expense of high hardware costs, shorter ranges, and more energy consumption. …
If you’re about to get an electric vehicle and are concerned about getting your EV charging situation sorted out at home without getting seriously charged—as in digging a big hole in your wallet—you’re reading the right post. I’ll explain how to fill your new vehicle’s “tank” and avoid those over-the-top …
If you’re looking to upgrade your AMD-based computer, be it a desktop or a laptop, to Wi-Fi 7, the Qualcomm NCM865 chip, first available via the ready-made MSI HERALD-BE NCM865 PCIe add-on adapter for desktop, is the answer. This Wi-Fi chip also supports Intel-based computers, but in this case, you’re better …
Since mid-2020, many of you have sent me questions asking about how to conserve Internet bandwidth—that is, how to not go over a monthly data cap. Apparently, even after the pandemic, working from home and the new streaming habit causes more problems than revealing the real couch potatoes we’ve all …
To enjoy Wi-Fi 7, you need a broadcaster (a router or access point) supporting the new wireless standard—here are the growing lists of the standard’s best routers and mesh systems available today. Then, you need a computer client. Smartphones, like the Pixel 8 Pro or One Plus 11 5G, generally …
Your DNS server is the gateway to your online life, including your security and privacy. Here’s how you can take a bit more control of it.
