Network Management Principles/Networking Tutorials

Types of Internet Connections

Broadband

Broadband internet connections provide high-speed internet that is always on and allows for more data to be transmitted than the traditional dial-up connections. Unlike dial-up services, it does not block phone lines and you do not have to reconnect to the network each time you log off. There are various types of broadband technologies, including digital subscriber line (DSL), cable modems, fibers, wireless broadband connections, and Satellite connections. The fastest of these connections is by far the fiber broadband, outperforming DSL and cable modems by ten to even hundreds of Mbps. Wireless connections perform at a speed similar to DSL and cable modems, while satellites are slower than DSL, but still much faster than traditional dial-up internet.

Network Management Principles/Networking Tutorials

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is a play on the term Hi-Fi and represents a wireless internet connection. More specifically, it is a wireless local area network (WLAN) that allows devices to connect wirelessly to the internet. It utilizes 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz radio waves to connect Wi-Fi enabled gadgets (computers, gaming systems, mobile phones, and even some cameras) to the internet without the need for cumbersome wires. These connections can be extremely fast in some cases, reaching speeds of over 100 Mbps, but the convenience of having no cables and the increased speed come at a cost of potentially decreased security. Because there is no need for a physical connection, it is easier for hackers to compromise the security of Wi-Fi connections.Network Management Principles/Networking Tutorials

WiMAX

WiMAX is a more advanced form of wireless internet technology than Wi-Fi. It aims to provide the high speeds of broadband connections, the large coverage of phone networks, and the convenience of Wi-Fi into one package. The implementation of WiMAX would allow DSL and cable modem users to ditch their wired internet connections in favor of a high-speed, wireless alternative. Even those users in rural areas who find wireless internet or even phone coverage difficult to come by would be able to connect to the internet via WiMAX due to its very broad coverage. If WiMAX is mastered, the way that people access the internet worldwide would be revolutionized.Network Management Principles/Networking Tutorials

Computer Networking: The Server

What is a server? – In information technology, a server is considered any instance of an application that can receive and serve the requests of other programs. Usually these applications are run on computers dedicated to acting solely as servers so that the heavy burden of fulfilling requests from other devices on the network does not overwhelm the computers. Running servers on dedicated computers is also a safety measure, helping to keep the server from being attacked. The computers dedicated to acting as servers usually include faster CPUs, bigger hard drives, better RAM, and multiple power sources. These enhancements allow the server to handle the immense workload and also give it reliability in the event of unfortunate events.

Peer-to-Peer Networks

A Peer-to-Peer network, or P2P network, is one in which multiple computers are connected without linking through a separate computer that acts as a server. These connections can vary based on how many computers are being linked together. Two computers can be linked via a USB drive to allow for the transfer of files. Multiple computers in an office can be connected directly to each other via traditional copper wiring instead of through a server computer. The fundamental basis for P2P networks is that individual permissions must be set for each computer on the network. For instance, if one computer (A) is connected to a printer and another computer (B) on the network wishes to use the printer, then A would first have to grant B permission.

A Dummy Guide to Networking

Having learned about various aspects of computer networking, some aspects more complicated than others, many computer users may wish to have a simple guide they can follow to get their networks up and running. Whether it be a home or business network, there a few simple steps that will make setting up your network as painless as possible. A very typical network set up would be to connect a wireless router into a broadband modem that is in turn plugged into the internet connection of your home or office. Once this step is complete, all of your wireless devices, including your laptop, desktop computer, printer, and mobile phone will have access to the internet via the router. This set up also allows for multiple computers to connect to the network at once, so it would work well for a business office, household network, or even a school or campus network. Once you are connected, you are free to explore the vast amount of information available on the internet.