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Computer Networking BasicsComputer Networking Basics
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So just what is a ‘Network’ and what are the benefits? Networks, also
referred to as a LAN (Local Area Network - usually within a building)
and even a WAN (Wide Area Network - across a city or continent), are
a collection of computers that can share information between each
other. A network can have as few as two computers connected across
a small office or several thousand spread around the world. The
Internet is just a very large collection of networks, a ‘network of
networks’.
Over the last few years networking a dozen or so computers has become, for the most part, relatively straightforward (experience suggests that one can never say that working with computers is completely straightforward or trouble free).
The simplest way of connecting three or more computers is by plugging each one into a ‘hub’. This hub then acts rather like a control centre through which all lines or connections are made. Normally networks use a cable (invariably blue) with a connector that looks like a phone jack. If you try and plug it into a phone socket you will soon discover that it is about two sizes too big. In fact it carries 8 wires rather than the maximum of 6 used by a phone cord. The cable is often referred to as ‘Category 5’ and the connectors as RJ45’s. You can even dispense with the wires and use a ‘wireless network’ and save the cost and complexity of wiring. The cost is somewhat higher but it is becoming more and more cost effective. The limited range, 200 feet or so, means that the image of sitting on a beach with laptop and a cool drink is somewhat far fetched.
Other advantages of a network are the ability:
There is an alternative to having information scattered around the organization on different computers with staff spending time looking for that elusive file. This is to have all the files in one central location. This is the ‘file server’. It is simply a computer that acts as the central storage point for all files and information, but not the programs you run. While large businesses and corporations have specialized file servers most modest sized non-profit organizations will find their needs are much less demanding. A good computer with a large hard drive will often be more than adequate. Having put all our eggs, or files, in one basket it makes sense to ensure that they are well protected. Naturally the server must be reliable, for if this system fails no one can access their files. An Uninterruptible Power Supply will protect the system for 15 to 30 minutes if there is a power failure and so allow time to save all the files properly. However, the real benefit from having all your files in one place is that you can have just one ‘back-up’ system to ensure that nothing is lost or damaged. For more on this topic see the item ‘Back-Up Systems’.
While a file server can also be used for day to day tasks as a desktop system it is advisable to have the file server dedicated to the one task.
Although the basic principles behind a network are relatively straightforward it really does need some thorough planning if it is to provide trouble free operation. A modest investment in planning with a knowledgeable technician will repay itself many times over in terms of reliable operation. A good installer will also document all settings which will prove invaluable when adding a new computer or changing user passwords.
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