Networking Chapter 7: Connecting Devices

Chapter 7: Networking: Connecting Computing Devices

• This chapter discusses networking, focusing on connecting computing devices.
• Learning objectives cover describing computer networks and their pros/cons, explaining different network definitions, describing transmission media, basic hardware, necessary software, and broadband internet options.
• Additional objectives include summarizing wireless internet access, planning home networks, connecting devices, troubleshooting wireless issues, and managing/securing wireless networks.

Networking Fundamentals

• A computer network is two or more computers connected via software and hardware to communicate.
• Each device on a network is called a node.
• Nodes can be computers, peripherals (printers, game consoles), or network devices (routers).

Benefits of Networks

• Sharing high-speed internet connections.
• Sharing printers and peripherals.
• Sharing files.
• Facilitating common communications.

Disadvantages of Networks

• Network setup and administration.

Data Movement in Networks

• Data transfer rate (bandwidth) is the maximum speed data can be transmitted.
• Throughput is the actual speed data is transferred.
• Data transfer rates and throughput are measured in megabits per second (Mbps) or gigabits per second (Gbps).

Network Architectures

• Networks are classified by distance:
• Personal Area Network (PAN): Communication among devices close to a person.
• Local Area Network (LAN): Nodes located within a small geographical area.
• Home Area Network (HAN): A specific type of LAN in a home.
• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): Large network spanning a city.
• Wide Area Network (WAN): Spans a large physical distance.
• Networks are also classified by levels of administration:
• Client/server network: Clients request and servers provide information.
• Peer-to-peer (P2P) network: Nodes communicate directly with each other.
• Networks are categorized by protocols:
• Ethernet: Developed by the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers). It includes wired networks (gigabit Ethernet) and wireless networks (Wi-Fi).
• Backward compatibility: The ability of current devices to use earlier standards in addition to the current standard.

Network Components

• Networks must include a means of connecting nodes (cables or wireless).
• Special hardware devices allowing nodes to communicate and send data.
• Software that allows the network to function.
• Transmission media establishes a communication channel between network nodes. They can be wireless or wired.
• Wired networks use UTP cable (twisted copper wires), coaxial cable (single copper wire), and fiber-optic cable (plastic or glass fibers).
• Basic network hardware includes network adapters (NICs), modems, routers, and switches.
• Network adapters are integrated network adapters that are referred to as NICs.
• Modem translates signals from digital to analog and vice versa, enabling broadband connections.
• Routers transfer data packets between networks.
• Switches act as traffic signals on a network.
• Network software includes operating systems for P2P (peer-to-peer) networking and client/server networks (often using specialized NOS software).

Connecting to the Internet

• Broadband internet connections include:
• Cable Internet.
• DSL (digital subscriber line).
• Fiber-optic service.
• Cellular or dial-up (less common now).
• Broadband is the preferred method, while cellular/dial-up may be necessary in some situations.

Wireless Internet Access

• Access the Internet wirelessly at home via WiFi on your router.
• A mobile hotspot enables Internet access when away from home.
• Mobile broadband utilizes 4G or 5G for Internet access.
• Wireless ISPs provide internet service over wireless technology
• A data plan is necessary for wireless internet access.

Installing and Configuring Home Networks

• List all devices for planning and efficiency.
• The latest Ethernet standards are best for optimal network performance.
• Newer equipment is beneficial for optimal speed.
• Apple routers are well-suited for Apple devices.
• Specialized home networking devices include NAS (Network Attached Storage) devices for centralized data storage.
• Home network servers provide shared file storage.
• Other devices such as network-ready devices can directly connect through wireless or wired connections.

Troubleshooting Wireless Network Problems

• The maximum range of Wi-Fi is about 350 feet.
• Walls, floors, and large metal objects can cause signal interference.
• Place access points where signals are weaker.
• Wireless range extenders can repeat or amplify signals in weaker areas.

Managing and Securing Wireless Networks

• Use encryption and security protocols for network security.
• Change the network name (SSID).
• Disable SSID broadcast for added security.
• Change default passwords and create strong passphrases.
• Implement access control policies.
• Limit signal range to reduce interference.
• Keep router firmware up to date.
• Disable remote access.
• Configure security protocols and change the SSID through the router.