Computing 101 - Networking
Introduction:
Computer Networking is always an 'iffy' subject
both to explain, as well as to understand. There are, however, a number of
reasons for the 'confusion' as well as a number of methods to reduce the confusion,
and make things more understandable, easily.
Lets start, again, as always, with some vocabulary:
-
Network: a collection of computers,
network equipment, periperhals (printers, plotters, tape-drives, hard-disks
(SAN = Storage Area Networks; NSF = Network File System), amongst other
things - all connected together with some form of 'media' -which is typically
composed of one or more of: copper cables, optical fiber cables, or radio-waves
(wireless).
-
Computer: a 'computing device' - something
(typically) that acts as a computing device but is also connected to a network
-
Network device: typically a router
or a switch, (Sometimes called "active" network components), but
sometimes a 'hub' - (sometimes called a "passive" network component)
-
Media: the copper, fiber or radio-wave
components that connect all the devices together
-
Network Printer: - exactly what it
says - a printer attached to a network (typically to enhance sharing capabilities
rather than (sometimes more traditional) printer attached directly to a
computer
- Network Storage (device): -
typically a hard-disk or tape-drive - but can also be a CD-ROM "JukeBox"
or other 'storage device. Typically connected to the network to facilitate
sharing - just as a Network Printer is connected to the network to facilitate
sharing