So much work today is done online that it is not unusual to find multiple computers being used in one household. This situation is making it necessary to home network computers. If you are installing a wired network, you will need a router and Ethernet cables to connect devices. Once you have these components, the software that is provided with the router will help you establish your home network.
Some people may be confused about what it means to home network computers. Put simply, all of the computers in the home are able to communicate with each other. This allows them to share an Internet connection as well as files, music, and other media. A network also allows the computers to share devices such as printers and scanners.
The most essential piece of equipment necessary to home network computers is a router. A router is used link the devices connected to the network so that they can share information and equipment. By connecting the modem to the router, the Internet becomes accessible through the router as well.
There are two main types of home networks, wired or wireless. Ethernet networks are hard-wired to each computer, while wireless networks use radio waves to transmit information. Wired networks tend to be more secure and faster than wireless ones, but have the disadvantage of requiring Ethernet wiring. Wireless networks are more flexible and convenient, but are less secure.
In a wired network, Ethernet cable is required to connect each computer, printer, or device. Network interface cards (NIC) and an Ethernet router may also be needed. Routers generally come with software to walk you through setting up the network.
A wireless network requires a wireless router. When making your router purchase, note the range indicated. Most routers provide signals for around 100 feet (30.5 meters) using a 802.11g wireless network. This is designed for fast data transmission. It is worth noting that a router will not increase your internet speed.
In order to home network computers in this way, each computer will need a wireless adapter. This is standard in most new laptops, but it is critical to make sure that it is present. If it is not, an adapter must be added in order to connect to the network.
Wireless networks are vulnerable to people intent on stealing an Internet connection. A security option such as Wired Equivalency Privacy (WEP), WiFi Protected Access (WPA) or Media Access Control (MAC) may be utilized to prevent neighbors from highjacking your connection. Your router should include instructions on setting up network security.
If you choose to home network computers, the benefits may be immediately noticeable. Accessing the Internet from your laptop and sending files, wirelessly, to the printer are just some of the conveniences of a home network. Once it is in place, sharing settings can be established and altered to allow users access to items on the network from any of the connected computers.