COMPUTER NETWORKING | @vickkyakpan

A computer network is a medium in which various computers are connected and linked to each other to share information and resources.

• It sends data/resources from one computer to another.

• Build and create files and store them in a computer, access the files from the other computer(s) connected over to the network.

• It Connects a printer, scanner, or a fax machine to a computer within the network and let other computers of the network make use the machines available over the network.

The Following is all the list of hardware's required to set up a computer network.

• Network Cables

• Distributors

• Routers

• Internal Network Cards

• External Network Cards

Network cables are being used to connect and link computers. The most popular/commonly used cable is Category 5 cable RJ-45.

It is very possible that a computer can be linked/connected to another one via a serial port but if needed to be connected to many computers to produce a network, The serial connection will not work.

The only solution is using a central body to which other computers, printers, scanners, etc. can be linked/connected and then this body will be able to manage or distribute network traffic.

This is the type of device that perform as the central point for other computers and other devices which are also part of the network. It’s equipped with various holes called; ports. Computers and devices are linked/connected to a router using network cables. Nowadays a router comes in wireless forms using which computers can be connected with no any physical cable.

Network card is an essential component of a computer, without it a computer cannot be connected over a network. It is also referenced as the network adapter or Network Interface Card(NIC). Some branded computers do have network card pre-installed.
The two types of Network cards are: Internal and External Network Cards.

Internal Network Cards:
The Motherboard of a computer has a slot for internal network card at where it is to be inserted. The Internal network cards are of two types in whereby the first type make use of Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) connection, while the second type make use of Industry Standard Architecture (ISA). Network cables are needed to provide network access.

External Network Cards:
This are of two types: Wireless and USB based. Wireless network card requires to be inserted into the motherboard, however no network/data cable is required to connect to the network.

Universal Serial Bus (USB):
USB card is so very easy to use and can connects via USB port. Computers automatically detects USB card and can easily install the drivers needed to support the USB network card automatically.