This section is a real basic explanation of how networks are setup. It is intended for friends and relatives who do not spend their lives around computers, and just want them to work properly.
Of course the standard legal statements apply. I accept no responsibility for your network. So try the below at your own risk.
Networking involves connecting two or more computers. Let's walk through an example of setting up two computers. But first let's go over some terms.
(See "Hardware" on the "Computers" page for purchasing suggestions.)
Network Card - On a desktop computer, this is a card that is inside the computer, or connected to the motherboard. (I may take a picture later to show you). In the meantime, it is in the back, and looks like a big phone jack. If you have a laptop, you will either have the same thing, or a credit card sized thing (called a PC Card), and a cable that connects to it.
Network cable - Purchase Cat 5e for 10/100 or Cat 6 for Gigabit. Most computers currently made have 10/100 connectors. But if you setup your network for gigabit you will be better prepared for long-term. Up to you. Most people can just stick with 10/100 equipment.
Hub - You plug a network cable into a network card, and the other end into a hub or switch. Modern hubs and swtiches can also act as a router.
Switch - Like a hub, but better. Usually a little more money, but if you have several computers, it is the better way to go.
Router - Directs network traffic from one location to another. Like from your computer to a webpage and back.
Server - A computer where files are stored. Usually running all the time and has a UPS. Also refers to a hub or switch as in "DHCP Server", meaning it offers the service of DHCP.
Firewall - Helps protect against unwanted outside traffic getting inside your network. Does not prevent someone coming in who you let in. Like a lock on the door. But if you open the door and let someone in, thinking they are your friend, and they start stealing the lock had not ability to stop that. When you go to an internet site and "approve" by clicking to install a program (or even sometimes just view a webpage), it could also be installing or doing something you don't want. Just having a firewall does not prevent this from happening.
DSL - Most people on Verizon for example have DSL. It is basically a fast connection to the internet via a special phone line.
Cable - Fast connection to the internet via a coax cable (like for your TV). But is slowed down as more people in your neighborhood connect.
I.P. - In this context, I.P. (Officially "Internet Protocol"), is referring to a physical address assigned to your computer. Note. No two computers in your network can have the same address. Example: 10.1.1.1 or 192.168.1.1. Every computer must have one in order to function on the network. Either you must type one in, or assign allow it to be assigned by using DHCP.
DHCP - This is simply a dynamic way to setup an IP. In other words, usually your hub or switch will assign you an IP.
10/100 and Gigabit - 10/100 refers to how fast the maximum speed data can travel on your network. 100 megabytes (MB) per second or 1000 megabytes per second. The reality is, we never reach these limits, but faster is better. Most people will be totally happy with 10/100. The best internet providers out there that I am aware of are only at 5-30MB per second for residents.
Wifi - Wireless Networking. You can connect at anywhere from 11MB a second (802.11a) to 55MB a second (802.11b or G). They have a faster protocol out now (802.11 , but I am not familiar with how well it functions. Usually has a max distance of 300ft. If you setup Wifi in your home. You really must setup the firewall, or risk sharing your network, and infiltration by unwanted guests.
Bluetooth - You can network with bluetooth for small devices, but the range and speed are limited.
UPS - A battery that you plug your computer into, so if you loose power it will stay running and not shutdown instantly.
Now that the above is out of the way, it is as simple as this.
Networking Setup
1. Verify you have a network card. Most modern computers come with one. If it doesn't have one, you will have to buy one.
2. Purchase network cables (based on distances between computers with a little spare to be safe). One for each computer. Generally Cat 5e is best for most people.
3. Purchase a hub or switch. (Preferably a switch).
4. Connect the network cables into the Network card on your computer and the switch. Do this for every computer. Make sure you do not connect into a port that says "WAN". That is where you plug in your DSL or Cable modem.
So it may look like this (drawing later):
DSL Modem ---> Switch ----- Computer 1
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Computer 2
5. Then the easiest thing to do is use DHCP on your PC, MAC, or Linux computer. This is usually already enabled by default. Setting up a network with fixed IP's is more complicated. I will explain it another time, generally speaking it is not needed.
6. If you are trying to setup Wifi, that is more complicated, because of security and other concerns. See that section as well. Suffice it to say the networking part works exactly the same for Wifi as it does for wired networking. Meaning, you still need an IP, it is just that the information travels in the air, so you don't need cables. The complexity comes in the fact that you have to setup your wireless switch or router properly, then you have to configure your computer to match the settings on the switch for security. Then you can connect.
See also the "Spyware" section (MAC users need not worry about this) and the "Hardware" section for suggestions.
