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 Computer Accessories
Tips for Better Wi-Fi on the Road
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 For many of us, leaving our computer at home while traveling is the equivalent of cutting off our right arm. Without it, survival seems impossible. Luckily, advances in modern technology allow for easy transport of our beloved laptop with minimal complications -- if you know what you're doing.
We've compiled a list of computer travel tips to ease any technical troubles that could arise on your travels. We've learned most of these tips the hard way -- computer crashes at important meetings, batteries that bail out minutes into the second leg of a long flight, nasty viruses destroying precious files, and forgotten passwords that were so unmemorable and unhackable that we ourselves couldn't figure them out.
We offer these computer travel tips in the hope that you can avoid the technological trials and tribulations we have faced in the past. Got a travel tip you want to share? Send it to us!
 Must-Have Items
Firewall and Virus Protection: Many people load their virus protection and firewall onto their home computer, but forget to do so on their portable computer. A virus is a virus, no matter where you get it.
Software Components: Use the same software, even the same versions, at the office and on your laptop. Comfortable work habits are already difficult to maintain while traveling; you don't need the added frustration of changing your routines for a different version -- or worse, different brand -- of software, especially for high-volume tasks like word processing and e-mail.
Important Note: Test any new software before you leave, and bring backup disks with you when you go. Conflicts in your software or operating systems could arise, and the last place you'll want to deal with them is on the road.
 Adapter Plug Sets: If you are a frequent international traveler, it is wise to invest in a set of frequently used electrical adapter plugs. There's nothing worse than being all booted up with no way to plug in. For more information, see Electricity Conversion.
List of Necessary Passwords: It's a double-edged sword. The more complicated the password, the harder it is for people to figure out -- and for you to remember! If you tend to save passwords instead of retyping them, you'll need to either save them on your computer (in a password-protected file for greater security) or, even better, commit them to memory. Do not carry handwritten lists or print-outs of your passwords.
Contact Numbers for Technical Support: Bring phone numbers and bookmark Web sites for companies from which you may need technical support or downloads during your trip. It might be best to write these down in an appointment book or somewhere else that will always be with you, so you don't have to travel with countless slips of paper.
Backup Storage: Bring along DVD's, CD's and/or thumb drives so that you can back up your files on the road. If your laptop crashes for some reason, you'll still have your data.
Internet Accessories: Pack phone and Ethernet cables just in case your hotel doesn't have wireless Internet access. And if your laptop doesn't have a built-in wireless network adapter, throw in a wireless notebook card into your laptop case too.
For more on what to pack, see Computer Accessories.
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