A computer network can be
defined as two or more computers, connected so that they can share information
with one another. The Internet is probably the best-known network, although
many companies and people also have networks in their offices or homes.
As it becomes
increasingly common for people and small 
businesses
to have more than one computer, building networks to connect them
is also becoming more common, especially as the prices of networking
hardware drop. Where it may have cost thousands of dollars to build
even a small a network only a few years ago, the basic hardware can
now be had for under $300.
Regardless of
cost, the question remains: Why would anyone bother, especially in
a home or small office where the other computer is just a floppy disk
away?
Indeed,
the ‘sneaker net’ has served users well for many years,
but it has become a victim of technology in much the same way as typewriters.
Many data files are now too large to 
be
put on a diskette, and the huge range of different versions of common
office and graphics software often make taking a file down the hall
to print a copy or two real nuisance. A network allows transparent
sharing of both files and printers...click print on one machine, pick
up your hard copies at another. Use the cheap-to-run laser for text
printing and save expensive inkjet ink for photos!
Networking also
allows the quick and easy transfer of large files from one computer
to another (especially handy for laptops!), and full access to files
at other workstations. You can even work on your own computer from
another system in a remote location. This allows maximum utility and
efficiency, with a minimum of expensive hardware.
For retail
and industrial installations, the fact that most databases allow multiple
users to be connected at the same time, means that inventory or stock-keeping
records can be accessed from the stock room or warehouse and the point
of sale at the same time, eliminating the need to either run back
and forth or constantly copy the current version of the database between
computers.
Have a CD-Burner?
Rather than buy one for each computer, Make backups and music CDs
through the network! You can even spread copies of your data out between
different machines, so a hardware failure won’t stop you from
working, and you won’t lose your files.
Digital music
seems to be the wave of the future, 
but
the files are usually more than twice as large as a floppy disk, which
makes it tough to enjoy your music at different computers. Keeping
a copy on each computer also wastes valuable hard drive space. Mp3
files play perfectly through networks, which means you can keep all
of your files in one place, and listen to them everywhere.
Similarly, only
being able to access the internet from one computer is a nuisance,
especially if you need to download updates or information to 
another
computer. Today’s high-speed, always on, internet connections
can also pose a security risk, and could allow hackers or viruses
to enter your computer. A well set-up network lets every computer
on your network to use the same internet connection, and also isolates
your computers from hackers and viruses, preventing your personal
data from either going public or being destroyed.
Network gaming
is also becoming increasingly popular, with new software that allows
players at different machines to go head-to-head in simulated combat,
sports or other games. Connecting your computers with a network allows
everyone in the house to participate in their favourite network games!
There
are two major types of network available, with each one having benefits
and drawbacks. Both types can be interconnected, so the initial cost
and logistics of installation often make one a clear choice over the
other:
Wireless Networking
- Wireless networks using the ‘802.11b’ standard operate
at 11 Mbps (11 million bits per second; about 200 times faster than
a 56k modem), and have an unimpeded range of up to 300 m. This range
decreases somewhat with obstacles such as walls, wiring and floors
or ceilings, but is typically more than adequate for most houses if
the router is 
placed
in a central location. The chief benefit of this system is the ease
of installation - only a power outlet is requried; no other wiring
is necessary A wireless system requires a wireless router or access
point, and an individual wireless network interface for each computer.
The downsides are that the equipment is considerably more expensive
than hard wired systems (more than double, although prices are dropping),
and the
speed is only 10 % that of a hardwired network. However, the extra
cost of the hardware is offset by the ease of installation (less labour),
and the speed is more than adequate for most networking app-lications,
so this system is still a popular choice, especially for retro-fitting
or renovations. Wireless configurations also lets you access the network
from wherever you need to, even on the living room couch or in the
yard, which is a HUGE advantage. New systems also have built-in encryption
schemes, so your network is safe from eavesdropping.
Hardwired Networking
- 100 base-T networks operate at 100 Mbps, and 
have
become the industry standard. If wired properly, they may be upgraded
later to the new Gigabit Ethernet standard (1000 Mbps) with a new
switch or router and new network interfaces for each computer. Hard-wired
networking
has the advantage of using cheaper hardware, although the cost of
installation can be significantly higher, as jacks need to be added
throughout the building. This is an ideal solution for new construction,
for industrial spaces, or for buildings with access to the underside
of the first floor. Hardware required includes a router (to connect
to the internet), a patch panel, a switch or hub, network inter-faces
for each 
computer
and enough Cat5e cabling to connect every jack to the patch panel.
As mentioned, this configuration is compatible with wireless networking,
so a Wireless Access Point (WAP) may be added later to allow for more
mobile network connectivity, in addition to the hardwired connection
points.
Thanks for taking the time to read this brochure. As you may have
noticed, we’re pretty excited about computers and we hope you’ve
found this 
information
useful. Foothills Digital is a full-service computer consulting company,
and can manage your network installation in new or pre-existing structures
from hooking up internet connections, pulling cable and installing
networking hardware and software, to the installation and configuration
of servers and computers on your network, and web site production
and registration.
