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Many families and small offices have more than
one PCs.
You should set up a small network to better utilize the
computing power and resources in PCs. Also, by setting
up a network, you can share an internet connection. No more
fighting on who can surf the internet.
There are basically two type of networking: Peer-to-peer
networking and Server-based networking.
Peer-to-peer networking:This type of network is easy to configure, inexpensive and
ideal for home and small offices. In a peer-to-peer network,
each computer shares information stored on it with other
computers or peers, on the network. Peripheral devices
such as printers and scanners can be shared as well. The
disadvantage of peer-to-peer networking is that it's
relatively insecure. Everyone on the network can access
the files you've designated to share. However, there are
measures you can implement to remedy this issue.
Server-based networkingServer-base networks are built around a
centralized computer called a server. This type of
networking is also referred to as server-client network.
The server holds all the network's shared information
which the client computers can access. The server-base
network is popular with the business world because it's
easier to manage and offers a better security for the
information stored on the server.
However, server-based networks are more
expensive to set up and maintain. At least one dedicated
computer is needed to act as a server. A more
expensive operating system specifically designed to run on
a server computer is also needed. In addition, a
knowledgeable network administrator is needed to manage
the server. As you can see, server-based networking
is not necessary for home use.
After you have decided which networking
scheme meets your need, you then need to to decide how
you want to physically connect the network. There
are generally two choices you can pick: cabled networks
and wireless networks.
Cabled networks
Until recently, almost all networks are
connected by network cables and network devices such as
hubs and switches. This type of connection is fast,
reliable and relatively inexpensive. It's also more secure
than wireless network. However, there are drawbacks with
network cable in SOHO setting. You need to connect each
computer with a network cable which is difficult to do,
especially if you live in a multi-story house and the
computers are not close to each other. Fortunately,
to avoid hole drilling and tangling layout of network
cables, wireless networking comes to the rescue.
Wireless networks
Wireless networks are getting more and more
popular with the home networking market. This type of
networking offers much greater flexibility and freedom.
Instead of connecting PCs using cables and switches,
wireless network uses wireless access point and receiver
cards.
However, there are drawbacks with
wireless networking as well. Wireless networking
devices are more expensive than network cables. Wireless
networks can be up to ten times slower than cabled
networks. Wireless networks are also not as secure as
wired networks, due to the fact that signals are
broadcasted in the air for up to 800 feet.
Fortunately, there are measures you can take to minimize
the risk.
So, which type of network is right for
you? the choice is really up to you. Understanding
your budget, the desire for greater mobility...etc, should
help you make the right decision.
Are You Safe from Hackers? Get McAfee Wireless Home Network Security.
 
Want To Learn More About Home
Networking? I highly recommend this book:
SOHO Networking: A Guide to Installing a
Small-Office/Home-Office Network.
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