Understanding Different Types of Networks

A computer network is, quite simply, two or more computers connected to each other. When the computers are connected, they can send electronic signals back and forth. This lets them communicate with each other (via e-mail, typically), or share things. The computers on a network can share files that is, one computer can access the files stored on another computer. They can share printers, by sending their print requests over the network to the PC that is physically connected to the printer. They can share a single Internet connection, whether that's via a traditional modem or some sort of broadband connection. They can even share software applications. (Think multiple-player games here.)

The configuration part of setting up a network is handled by the operating system. Prior to Windows XP, it wasn't terribly easy. With Windows XP, however, it is easy. Very easy. Running-a-wizard type easy.

Whether you're hooking up a wired or a wireless network, Windows XP's Network Setup Wizard guides you through the network setup and configuration. You run the wizard on each PC that's connected to the network, and tell it about anything else you have connected, such as a printer, or an Internet connection you want to share. The wizard does all the hard work, and when it's done, your network is up and running and ready to use.

NOTE

The Network Setup Wizard is compatible with computers running Windows XP, Windows Me, Windows 98, and Windows 2000. If you have a computer running any other operating system, you'll need to use third-party networking software instead.

When it comes to physically connecting your network, you can go either the wired or the wireless route. Let's look at each in turn.

Ethernet (Wired) Networks

An Ethernet network is a traditional wired network. Each computer on the network has to have a network interface card (NIC) installed and configured. If you're connecting more than two computers in your network, each network card then has to be connected to a hub, which is a simple device that functions like the hub of a wheel, and functions as the central point in your network. And each computer has to be configured to function as part of the network, and to share designated files, folders, and peripherals.

TIP

You can probably find everything you need to set up an Ethernet network in a pre-assembled "networking kit." These kits typically contain all the cards and cables and hubs you need to create your network, along with easy-to-follow instructions. (And if you don't want to open up your computer, you can even find kits that include external network "cards" that connect via USB!)

You install Ethernet NICs in each PC, and connect the cards via Ethernet cable. Although this type of network is very easy to set up and probably the lowest-cost alternative, you have to deal with all that cable, which can be a hassle if your computers are in different areas of your house. Data is transferred at either 10Mbps or 100Mbps, depending on what equipment you install.

Wi-Fi (Wireless) Networks

A wireless network uses radio frequency (RF) signals to connect one computer to another. The big advantage of wireless, of course, is that you don't have to run any cables a big plus if you have a big house with computers on either end.

Windows XP supports both the IEEE 802.11b and 802.11g wireless networking standards officially called Wi-Fi. The "b" version is limited to speeds of 11Mbps, while the "g" version can get up to 54Mbps.

NOTE

Wi-Fi lets you connect to wireless network access points up to 150 feet away from your PC.

Setting up a Wi-Fi network is even easier than setting up an Ethernet network, because you don't have as many cables to run. (Wireless networks still need some wires, I'm afraid.) Basically, you connect your Internet connection to a wireless hub or router, which then connects (via Ethernet cable) to your main PC. All the other PCs on your network, however, connect wirelessly, via wireless adapters. (On a desktop PC, the wireless adapter connects to the PC's USB port; on a laptop PC, the wireless adapter is typically built into the computer.)