With wireless hotspots becoming more commonplace, not to mention all the other ways you can get online, keeping track of several network connections can be difficult. BVRP's Connection Manager Pro aims to help.
Windows' Wireless Zero Configuration wizard can remember your wireless network connections, but it doesn't make any effort to remember dial-up or LAN connections. Connection Manager Pro looks up the details of any network to which you've been connected previously and automtically connects you.
Wireless (802.11a, b or g) and wired connections can be saved into a profile for an individual user or location, as well as ISDN lines and connections using GPRS phones and handheld devices. All relevant settings are included, including WEP and WPA security keys.
The program creates an icon in the System Tray at the bottom-right of the screen. Right-clicking it enables you to access features such as switching profiles, as well as a more precise reading of signal strength than you get from Windows' simple bar indicator. In fact, we found it helped us relocate our router precisely for maximum coverage. Other buttons enable you to access your web browser and email programs quickly, as well as Connection Manager Pro's settings. Here, you can define Windows workgroups for individual network profiles, as well as proxy servers, and file and printer sharing. Those working from home can use Connection Manager Pro to establish a Virtual Private Network connection to the office, allowing remote access to documents with a high level of security.
BVRP Connection Manager is available as a free download, limited to two connections. However, Connection Manager Pro is well worth the money for those who travel a lot and connect to a wide range of networks.
NETWORK CONNECTION SOFTWARE Requires Windows XP, 300MHz processor, 10MB disk spaceAuthor: James Nixon
BVRP Connection Manager Pro