APG Consultancy LTD

Networks

A computer network is a group of interconnected computers and devices. The network allows data to flow between devices, for instance copying files from one computer to another, or sending data to a printer. A router connects the local network to the outside world, providing a link to the internet.

Shown below is a typical network that someone may have at home:

Provides the link between your home and the internet. An ADSL router provides a link using a phone line, a cable router connects to a cable modem.

Most routers provide a number of Ethernet ports and a Wi-Fi connection.

Router

Cable

Modem

Usually provided by the internet provider. Connects the suppliers cable or optical fibre network to a home network. Can be seperate to the router or integrated.

Ethernet

Cable

Computers and other devices can be connected to each other via an Ethernet cable. The router normally provides four or more Ethernet ports.

Wireless

or

Wi-Fi

Computers can also connect to the router via Wi-Fi, which provides a wireless connection using radio signals. This connection is normally slower than when using a cable and can be more unreliable but it is much more convenient.

Ethernet

Switch

An Ethernet switch is used to provide more Ethernet ports.

HomePlug

or

Powerline

HomePlug or Powerline devices transmit data over the standard mains cable already in a house. Homeplug devices typically have one Ethernet port.

Some printers come with either a network port or Wi-Fi. This allows the printer to be directly printed to by any computer on the network. A printer connected directly to a computer can also be shared as long as the computer is left switched on.

Network Printer

NAS stands for Network Attached Storage. These are storage devices that are connected to a standard network allowing all computers/devices to store and access shared files. A NAS drive can normally hold multiple hard drives and includes features for automated backup and fault recovery.

NAS

A server is a computer specifically designed for sharing files, sharing printers, hosting web sites or hosting a mail server. Typically configured without a monitor, they are not for general use.

Server