Introduction To Networking

Introduction
If you’re not familiar with networking, read this chapter to learn the basics
of a small network. It outlines what you can use the network to do,
introduces you to the hardware and software needed for a network, and
explains how a small network is different from larger networks and the
Internet. If you’re already familiar with this basic networking information,
you can go directly to the end of the chapter to see how to use this book to
help you set up your network.

What is a Network?
A computer network is simply two or more computers connected together so
they can exchange information. A small network can be as simple as two
computers linked together by a single cable.

Most networks use hubs to connect computers together. A large network
may connect thousands of computers and other devices together.

A wireless network connects computers without a hub or network cables.
Computers use radio communications to send data between each other.

What Can I do With a Simple Network?
Without a network, you can access resources only on your own computer.
These resources may be devices in your computer, such as a folder or disk drive, or they may be connected to your computer, such as a printer or CD-
ROM drive. These devices, accessible only to you, are local resources.
Networking allows you to share resources among a group of computer
users.