Networking

If you have multiple computers in your home or office and want to share
files, printers, scanners or net storage devices, then perhaps you're in
the market for a network. With a network you can share a high-speed
internet connection, play games against others on the network, and so
forth.

Wired or wireless? That depends...

Wired networks consist of multiple runs of cable from a central location
(a 'Head-End') that terminate where items to be connected are located.
Most terminations are with an Ethernet/CAT5 wall plate of some type,
although the cable could be run directly to the network component.

The cable type may vary somewhat, but you will usually see Category 5
as the norm.

Connections at the 'Head-End' can be made in various methods - punch
down blocks, rack style patch panels or directly into switches, hubs or
routers.

Most of the more recent computers come from the factory with an
Ethernet connection already built in. For those that don't have a
connection, costs for adapters or cards are extremely reasonable.

The benefits of wired (vs. wireless) networks include faster network
speed for file transfers, etc., and overall lower cost for hardware.

Wireless networks usually consist of a wireless router (kind of a "Head-
End' where your high-speed internet connection would be attached) or an
Access Point (a device that connects to a hub or switch for wireless
access). Many manufacturers have Routers with Access Points built in.

To connect computers, printers and other hardware to a wireless
network, they must either have some type of wireless capability built in,
or a wireless card or adapter for that device must be used. Wireless
cards and adapters are available for laptops, desktops, PDA's, printers
(wireless print servers), etc.

The most common standards used for wireless connection are 802.11b,
802.11g and 802.11a. To see a basic chart on the differences between
the formats, click here:

The benefits of wireless (vs. wired) networks include the ability to roam
within the covered area; easily expandable and no cables to worry about,
etc.

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