Chapter 5: Managing Netbooks

In This Chapter

check.png Checking out typical specifications for netbooks

check.png Understanding how networks connect

check.png Getting tips for working with netbooks

One of the newest trends in mobile computing is the use of netbook computers, or just netbooks, instead of traditional notebook or laptop computers. A netbook is like a cross between a smartphone and a laptop, with a strange blend of the strengths and weaknesses of both devices.

This chapter is a brief overview of what netbooks are and what factors you should take into consideration when incorporating them into your mobile network plans.

Understanding Netbook Computers

As you probably know, a netbook looks like a notebook computer that got run through the wash with hot water and shrank to about half of its original size. This small size makes it an ideal companion for many mobile users: It’s larger than a smartphone, so it can be used for ordinary computer tasks like word processing or spreadsheet analysis, but it’s much smaller than a notebook computer, so it’s easier to take with you.

Figure 5-1 shows a typical netbook computer — in this case, an HP Mini 311. This computer comes with the following features:

An ...

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