Networking Chapter 7: Connecting Devices

Chapter 7: Networking: Connecting Computing Devices

• Chapter 7 focuses on networking, specifically connecting computing devices.
• Learning objectives cover describing computer networks, different network definitions, transmission media, necessary hardware, network software, and internet access options.
• Additional objectives detail wireless internet access, planning home networks, connecting devices, troubleshooting wireless problems, and securing wireless networks.
• A computer network connects two or more computers allowing communication via software and hardware.
• Each device on a network is called a node. Nodes can be: computers, peripherals (printers, game consoles), or network devices (routers).

Networking Fundamentals

• Benefits of networks include sharing high-speed internet, printers, peripheral devices, and enabling common communications.
• A downside is the setup and administration time.
• Data transfer rate (bandwidth) is the maximum data transmission speed.
• Throughput is the actual data transfer speed in megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps).

Network Architectures

• Networks are categorized by distance:

  • PAN (Personal Area Network): Short-range communication among devices near a person.
  • LAN (Local Area Network): Network in a small geographic area.
  • HAN (Home Area Network): Specific type of LAN in a home.
  • MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): Large network covering a city.
  • WAN (Wide Area Network): Spans a large physical distance.

• Networks are categorized by levels of administration:

  • Client/server: Client computers request actions, servers provide resources
  • Peer-to-peer: Connected nodes communicate directly with each other.

• Networks are classified by protocols like Ethernet, developed by IEEE:

  • Ethernet applies to both wired and wireless networks.
  • Includes wired networks and wireless networks (Wi-Fi and GbE)
  • Backward compatibility refers to the ability of current devices to use earlier standards.

Network Components

• Networks require:

  • A means of connecting nodes (cables or wireless tech).
  • Special hardware facilitating communication.
  • Software for network operation.

• Network components include:

  • Network interface cards (NICs)
  • Modems
  • Routers
  • Switches
  • Network adapters for each node.

• Modems translate signals for broadband connections, routers transfer data between networks, and switches manage data flow within a network.

Network Software

• P2P networks use operating systems for their function.
• Client/server networks depend on specialized network operating system (NOS) software on servers to provide information and resources.

Connecting to the Internet

• Broadband Internet is preferred for speed compared to dial-up or cellular.
• Common broadband types include cable, DSL, and fiber-optic services.
• Wireless Internet access methods exist through mobile broadband, Wi-Fi hotspots, and wireless ISPs. Data plans are needed for Internet access.

Installing & Configuring Home Networks

• Device inventory (all devices used) is critical for optimal home network setup.
• Employing latest network standards and equipment is recommended for optimal performance.
• Routers are designed for specific operating systems (e.g., Apple devices with AirPort routers, or Windows).
• Specialized devices (NAS, home network servers) provide central storage and file sharing in networks.

Troubleshooting Wireless Networks

• Factors affecting Wi-Fi range and stability include walls, large metal objects, and distance from the router.
• Wireless range extenders repeat or amplify the router's signal to improve coverage.

Managing & Securing Wireless Networks

• Security protocols improve network security.
• Changing the network name, disabling SSID broadcast, and changing default passwords provide a more secure network.
• Router configurations enable further network security measures.