Home Networking Basics

Home networks were long thought to be the realm of the technophiles until recently, but with our ever technologically progressing world, creating a home network is becoming easier so that you don’t have to be extremely technologically savvy to make one in your home - you just plug in and go. This is a good thing since for many families, one computer is often not enough - we use computers for communication, entertainment, shopping, and homework. And for any family with more than one computer, a network becomes necessary. It saves time, resources, power, and money in the long run.

What Does a Network Do?

A network is a way to let computers and their satellite devices communicate with each other. Computers connected through a network can share files and documents, internet connections, printers, scanners, entertainments devices, and CD burners. This means that if you want to print something from computer B, you don't need to bring it to computer A (to which the printer is attached), you can print it direct from computer B. Also, if you need to transfer a file from one computer to any other, you don't need to use a disk, USB key, or an internet connection.

What Comprises a Network?

All networks have essential components that make them work as a network. By definition, all network must have more than one computer. They can be as mall as two computers or as large as one hundred computers or more. Hardware (such as a router) and software (an operating system like Windows XP) are also necessary to coordinate the exchange of information. Finally, all networks also need a path for the information to pass from one computer to another.

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With the advent of wireless Internet, more and more computer users are entering the world of cyber space.

Yet, while these users are well aware of the importance of the protection of their computer when hooked up to regular internet providers, they are often oblivious to the fact that the same cyber dangers, and in fact even more, exist in the world of WiFi.

What you may not know is that same Internet connection that makes it possible to check your email from the comfort of your bed also makes it easier for hackers to access your personal information.

It is for this reason, the sharing of the wireless Internet connection, that protecting your computer when wireless is even more important than ever before.