For most of us, it's not about the technology—it's about what we can do with it. A home network lets you share Internet connections, printers, and files between two or more computers. Go wireless, and you can read your e-mail, surf the Web, or download new music from anywhere in or around your home. And with the improvements and added security features in Service Pack 2, Windows XP home networking is safer and more fun than ever before. Paul Thurrott shows you just how it's done, in language that makes sense.

• Understand networking software, learn what hardware you need, and configure a modem
• Explore broadband options and their security issues
• Use Windows XP's network and wireless network setup wizards
• Set up security to protect shared files and user accounts
• Participate in multiplayer games
• Integrate Bluetooth devices and add Mac OS® X or Linux machines to your network
• Deal with spam, pop-ups, malicious add-ons, and other malware
• Manage instant communication with Windows® Messenger and MSN® Messenger
• Synchronize your Palm OS® device or Pocket PC with your desktop