Answer this series of common questions about basic computer
networking concepts to quickly expand your knowledge of the topic.
Computer networks allow you to share files with friends,
family, coworkers and customers. Learn about the different methods for file
sharing including Windows, FTP, P2P and Web based.
Computers use low-level software called an operating system
to help people build and run their own programs. Operating system software runs
not just on laptop computers but also on cell phones, network routers and other
gadgets. An O/S normally provides basic networking support for
The simplest kind of home network contains exactly two
computers. You can use this kind of network to share files, a printer or
another peripheral device, and even an Internet connection. To connect two
computers for sharing network resources, consider these alternatives.
LAN and WAN are two common types of networks but many others
exist.
One way to classify computer networks is by their topology.
Common network topologies include the bus, star, and ring.
Numerous published books are available for free download on
the Internet. However, not very many quality, free titles are available on
basic computer networking topics.
A router is a small hardware device that joins multiple
networks together. These networks can include wired or wireless home networks,
and the Internet.
Protocols serve as a language of communication among network
devices. Network protocols like HTTP, TCP/IP, and SMTP provide a foundation
that much of the Internet is built on. Find out more about these protocols and
how they work.
In computer networking, a server is a computer designed to
process requests and deliver data to other computers over a local network or
the Internet. Common types of network servers include Web, proxy and FTP
servers.
TCP/IP provides connection-oriented communication between
network devices. TCP/IP is very commonly used both on the Internet and in home
computer networks.
A network firewall guards a computer against unauthorized
network access. Firewalls are one of the essential elements of a safe home or
business network.
Ethernet is a physical and data link layer technology for
local area networks (LANs). Ethernet is reliable and inexpensive, the leading
standard worldwide for building wired LANs.
A network switch is a small hardware device that joins
multiple computers together at a low-level network protocol layer. Switches
differ in important ways from both routers and hubs.
Network addresses give computers unique identities they can
use to communicate with each other. Specifically, IP addresses and MAC
addresses are used on most home and business networks.
Understanding these concepts in computer architecture is
essential to learning computer networking. Discover the fundamental elements of
computer system and network architecture here.
Many books exist dedicated to home networking, specific
network technologies like wireless or TCP/IP, or various academic networking
topics. This one covers the overall field of computer networking.
U.S. Cellular®Shop Now For Great Cell
Phone Offers & Plans at U.S. Cellular. www.uscellular.com
How To NetworkTips, Information, And Advice For Successful Networking AARP.org
Advertisement
Networking Basics Networking Tutorial Computer Networking Networking Hardware Wireless Networking