Networking Basics

In order to expand the usefulness of internet technologies, it is imperative that one understands the importance of networking.  Networking is the connection of two or more computers using devices such as cables or wireless media.  Networks allow users to share data and devices through it.

Local area networks or an LAN, is a computer network supporting users in a small geographical area such as a home, office, or single or several buildings, such as a college campus.  Each computer or device used on an LAN is called a node.  LANs are configured in one of two basic configurations, peer-to-peer or client/server.  A peer-to-peer LAN is made of a small number of computers linked together, oftentimes to use a peripheral device such as a printer.  Peer-to-peer networks proliferate small businesses and home offices across the nation.

  Larger organizations will quick outgrow peer-to-peer LANs and may need to implement a client/server set up.  Client/server networks consists of multiple computers or workstations, one or more servers, and other tools such as printers.  The server allows users to share data, file space, peripheral devices, and internet connection.  

Outside of LANs, metropolitan area networks (MANs) connect clients and servers in a region larger than a single office or building.  A wide area network (WAN) is a network covering a very large geographical area such as several locations located in England, Canada, and Japan.  WANs are oftentimes made up of several LANs connected through the network.