Computer Networking Guide
In the world of computers, networking refers to the linking of two or more computers together for the purpose of sharing data. Networks are built with a variety of computer hardware and software components. Read on to learn more!
At a Glance
- Area Networks: This defines the type of network by the geographic area that it spans. Local Area Networks
(LANs), for example, range through one home; Wide Area Networks (WANs) reach across cities, states, and countries. The Internet is the world's largest WAN.
- Network Design: There are two types of network design: client-server and peer-to-peer.
- Client-server networks feature centralized server computers that store email, web pages, files and/or applications. They are most commonly used in business.
- On a peer-to-peer network , all computers tend to support the same functions. These are typically used to create networks in the home.
- Network Protocol: In networking, the protocols refer to the communications used by computer devices; another way to classify networks is by the set of protocols that they support. Networks often implement multiple protocols to support specific applications. Popular protocols include TCP/IP , the most common protocol found on the Internet and in home networks.
- Network Routers: These are the physical devices that join multiple wired or wireless networks together. Home networkers often use an Internet Protocol (IP) wired or wireless router . An IP router such as a DSL or cable broadband router joins the home's local area network (LAN) to the wide-area network (WAN) of the Internet.
- Network Servers: The network server refers to the computer designed to process requests and deliver data to the other computers over a network. Network servers typically are configured with additional processing, memory and storage capacity to handle the load of servicing users.
Network Hardware
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