Build Your Own Home Network

We have tried very hard to create a simple, step-by-step, descriptive guideline that you can follow to create your own home network without making all of the mistakes usually necessary to gain this knowledge. We explain the terms and concepts of networking, in general, and how each networking component is used and why. We hope that armed with a basic understanding of the language of networking, you will be able to hold your own against the jargon-tongued super-geeks you may encounter at the computer supply stores. If you want an in-depth explanation of networking, its components, and all of its applications, this isn't the book for you. However, if you are looking for a book to help you to install a network in your home (or business), you've found it!

There are many reasons why you should want to network your home computers. Chief among the reasons is that it allows you to share all of those really expensive peripherals and services. Without a network, you must either have two of everything-printers, modems, scanners, Internet connections, and more--or take turns using these resources. Among other reasons to network your home computers are that you can share data and play those really nifty network games with other family members, saving the cost of those trips to the video arcade at the mall.

In providing you with the steps used to create a network and a list of the parts and components you need to do so, we have avoided quoting any prices or brands, except when it was unavoidable. This is primarily because computer component prices fluctuate almost daily and brands come and go or are more or less available due to their popularity. A certain brand of network interface card that may have been very popular at the time we are writing this book, may be very expensive or hard to find due to demand when you are reading this. We aren't trying to create snob networks with all of the "right" parts; we just want to help you to create the best and most functional network possible. There are many interchangeable brands of components, so this is best left neutral. Please don't misunderstand any brands shown in our illustrations as an endorsement of that particular brand. However, one brand we couldn't avoid was Microsoft Windows, for hopefully obviously reasons.

Installing a home network doesn't need to require ten years of experience and an engineering degree. It is really a simple matter of assembling the right parts, installing them in the right places, and configuring the right software so that they all talk with each other. Sound simple? Well, it is!

We hope you learn a little and gain a home network, as a result of this book.

contents

Network Basics

• What is a Computer Network?
• Common Networking Terminology
  • Workstations and Nodes
  • Network Adapters
  • Network Cabling and Media
  • Plug-and-Play Devices
• Network Classifications and Types
  • Network Classifications
  • Network Types
• Network Functions
  • Network Protocols
  • Connection Types
  • Datagrams and Packets
• The OSI Model
• Network Addressing
• Network Topologies
• Network Technologies
  • Repeaters
  • Hubs
• Connectivity Devices
  • Routers
  • Gateways
• Network Interface Card
  • Getting on the Bus
  • External Network Adapters
  • Transceiver Types
  • NIC Connectors
• Bandwidth
  • Baseband Versus Broadband
  • Cable Media and Bandwidth
  • 1OBaseT
• Ready, Set...

• Where to Start
• Creating Your Shopping List
  • Network Adapters
  • NIC Configuration
  • Portable Computer Network Adaptaters
• UTP Cabling and Connectors
  • UTP versus STP
  • Cable Categories
  • Plenum Versus PVC
  • UTP Connectors
• Tools and Supplies
  • Crimper
  • Other Tools You May Need
• Summary

Installing our New Network

• Planning to Succeed
  • The Operating System.
  • Internet Sharing
  • Computer Placement
  • Number of Computers
  • Path Layout
  • Path Measurement
  • Network Interface Cards
• Purchasing Equipment
  • Drilling Instructions
• Installing the Cable
  • Laying Cable
• NIC Card Installation
  • Non-Internet Sharing Windows Settings
• Windows Settings
  • Internet Sharing Windows Settings
• Cable Connection
• Connecting with a DSL Service
  • Don't Underestimate the Need and Value of a Firewall
• Power
  • File and Printer Sharing
• Windows Share Settings
  • Sharing Your Printer
• Testing Your Network
• Gloating

Index