1. Secure wireless networking (at last!)When wireless networking debuted several years ago, it was accompanied by an encryption scheme called Wired Equivalent Privacy, or simply WEP. The only problem was that WEP didn't really provide the privacy equivalent of a wired network. In fact, it didn't provide much privacy at all. WEP is easy to crack.WPA, or WiFi Protected Access, was created as a stop-gap measure in 2003 to address WEP's problems. In 2004, the third generation of wireless networking encryption, known as WPA2 (WPA, second generation), came along. As you shop for wireless networking equipment in 2006, be sure to consider only equipment that supports WPA2.If you already have equipment, its encryption standard should be at least WPA. If you have WEP, it may be upgradeable to WPA2. If it isn't, replace the equipment. WEP is dangerous.

2. 64-bit, multiple-core computingSince 2002, we've been hearing that 64-bit processing is about to "arrive." While 64-bit processors have been widely available, software to take advantage of the technology has not.Earlier in 2005, 64-bit processing took a giant step forward when Microsoft introduced Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, a version of Windows XP designed specifically for 64-bit processors.These microprocessors can handle twice the data of today's 32-bit processors. Ultimately, that should give a big power boost to computers. In addition, they can address massively more memory. That will be important for businesses with huge databases or other programs.The new 64-bit chips also can handle 32-bit programs natively. That means 32-bit programs will continue to run fast. Most likely, all of your programs today are 32-bit. So you can use your old programs as long as you like.There is one problem with 64-bit Windows: Many device drivers do not work with it. Device drivers are programs that tell Windows how to run hardware. For instance, printers and scanners need device drivers. Hardware makers are working on the problem. Check that drivers are available for your equipment before making the 64-bit jump.Dual-core processors are also becoming common. Essentially, they are two computers on one chip. Their advantage: They can run two parts of one program simultaneously. Or they can run two programs simultaneously.For instance, you might run Word and anti-virus software together. Today's chips appear to do that. But, in fact, they run part of one, then the other. They appear to be simultaneous because the handoff is so fast.Again, there isn't much software available yet. But that should change in 2006.

3. Windows VistaAfter five years, Windows XP is beginning to show its age. Thus, Microsoft plans to introduce Windows Vista by the end of 2006. Vista will offer improvements on XP in a number of areas.Improved security features and easier network deployment will make people happy. Microsoft also claims Vista is more stable than Windows XP. Microsoft says finding stuff on your hard drive will be easier. File sharing also is supposed to be better. And the user interface is improved.Even if you divide the hype by three, the improvement should be worthwhile.Microsoft uses words like "exciting" and "fun" to describe new Windows versions. They are neither; they are simply tools. That said, I expect this tool to be worth the upgrade.

4. Web servicesAs high-speed Internet connections have become more common, there's been a growth in services delivered over the Web as replacements for desktop applications. Probably the best-known is salesforce.com, which provides a sales automation system. Users pay a monthly fee to use salesforce.com online.Why do I think this will be a trend? Recently, Bill Gates announced that Microsoft plans to put Office and other applications online. When Microsoft acts, the technology has arrived. Look for more Web services from Microsoft, Google and other companies in 2006.

5. Threats to the BlackBerryThe BlackBerry's appeal is compelling: e-mail, cell phone, Internet and organizer all in one wireless device. It has swept parts of the business world. But this marvelous device is facing dire threats.Foremost is its legal situation. Research in Motion (RIM), the maker, has been accused of infringing patents held by another company, NTP. The BlackBerry could go dark. That obviously would be a problem for customers. More likely, RIM will pay a ton to keep operating.Even if it does, you may want to look at competitors. Palm and Nokia are crowding into this area. Other companies will, too. It's too lucrative to ignore.BlackBerry has certainly been the product to own. But RIM's problems may make it too risky. And competitors may give you a better price. So, be sure to consider your alternatives.