A Networking Primer: Untangling the Web of Mystery
Whew! All that talk of operating systems and hardware was hard-wearing on my brain (well, CPU). This foundation is important for understanding how computers can be set-up to create a network of information and resource sharing.
A computer network consists of a collection of computers, printers, and other equipment that is connected together over a shared medium so that they can communicate with each other. In that sense, the Internet is essentially a network of networks. In most cases a school network consists of a local area network (LAN) connecting computers with each other, the Internet, and various servers. It serves a school because it allows for:
View this slide show for a behind-the-scenes look at computer networking over the course of history: HowStuffWorks.com | Computer Networking Pictures. Then, learn the nuts and bolts of computer networks that will help you make sense of the tangle of cords and machines in that mysterious room in your school. (If you get confused, just check out this glossary of terms.)
A computer network consists of a collection of computers, printers, and other equipment that is connected together over a shared medium so that they can communicate with each other. In that sense, the Internet is essentially a network of networks. In most cases a school network consists of a local area network (LAN) connecting computers with each other, the Internet, and various servers. It serves a school because it allows for:
- User access control (for privacy of information)
- Information storing and sharing
- Files and folders can be backed up to local or remote shares
- Connections among individuals
- Information services (e.g. directories, schedules, research, email, etc.)
- Internet gateway
- Shared computing resources (e.g. specialized printers or other peripherals)
- Audio & video content can be streamed to multiple devices
- Flexible access (location)
- Workgroup computing (concurrent collaboration)
- Remote-control/access programs to troubleshoot problems
View this slide show for a behind-the-scenes look at computer networking over the course of history: HowStuffWorks.com | Computer Networking Pictures. Then, learn the nuts and bolts of computer networks that will help you make sense of the tangle of cords and machines in that mysterious room in your school. (If you get confused, just check out this glossary of terms.)
For more information, visit Computer and Wireless Networking Basics. Or check out this video: