Computer Networks – An Overview Of The Set-Up Process
Whereas setting up an internet connection is unbelievably simple nowadays, setting up a home network is seen as a task only achievable by a certain level of computer geek; though with the improvements in operating system software and network software, the process is much easier than once thought.
So you want to take the plunge and set up your own home network? The details below will help you through the process.
Before you begin installing anything, you must make sure you have the right equipment. The most important part of your network is the router, depending on if you want to set up a wireless or a wired network; you will need a suitable router with either wireless capability or enough Ethernet ports for your needs. Many routers nowadays come with both wired and wireless capability, which helps if you change your mind in the future. You must also make sure you have enough Ethernet cables or wireless network cards for each computer.
Once you have all the right equipment and have made sure (if you are using them) that your wireless cards have been installed, you should move on to connecting all the computers up to the router. With a wired Ethernet connection, setup will be quite easy; wireless, on the other hand, may be a little more difficult. What will make life easier for you is to ensure that you use the same brand of router and wireless cards, and that all the equipment is compatible with the operating system that you are using.
With regards to a wireless network, after the installation of all wireless network cars has been completed, each computer should be able to recognize and communicate with the router. At this stage there should not be any wireless security systems set up so everything should be working perfectly. By using certain software, such as Windows Homegroup Setup Wizard, you will also be able to share and stream media from one computer to another.
With a wired network, network security is not needed as computers need a wired, Ethernet connection to access your network. However, if the router you are using for your wired network is capable of broadcasting a wireless signal, then make sure this feature is disabled in the routers settings. With a wireless network, it is sensible to make sure some form of security is enabled to prevent unwanted leeches.
With one computer able to communicate with the router, connect to it by entering the IP address of the router in your internet browser window. Firstly, choose an SSID for your network (network ID), then enable a WPA and/or WEP security method and decide on a sufficiently difficult password. Write the password down and go through each other computer, selecting the network and typing in the password. It is as easy as that!
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Tagged: computers, hardware, networks, technology
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