Understanding and Building Basic Networks Chapter 6 Creating a Network

In this chapter, you will answer these questions: How do I connect the computers? Can I create a network without wires? How do I install the hardware? How do I set up the software? How do I choose an ISP? What type of connection do I have to the Internet? What else do I need to know to get connected? What is the future of networking?

How do I connect the computers? The first thing you need to do when you begin to physically set up the network is to install cable. You have to select the correct type of cable then be aware of some basic guidelines for the proper installation of the cables, known as transmission media.

Cables and Connectors Coaxial cable has a solid copper wire at the core, which is surrounded by an insulating layer of plastic. A British Naval Connector (BNC) connects lengths of coax cable, and connects the cable to the NIC.

Twisted-Pair Wiring There are different categories of twisted- pair wiring, each designed to transfer data at different speeds. An RJ-45 plug connects twisted-pair cable to computers and other devices.

Twisted-Pair Cable Students can visit the Cables to Go Web site to get more information about cables and pricing of various types of cabling. The site is online at

Fiber Optic Cable Fiber optic cable differs from other forms of network cabling because it transmits pulses of light rather than electrical pulses. This expensive and fast cable medium is popular for long distance backbone segments that might link states or countries.

Installing the Cable Students can study the steps in the Wire My House for Networking section of the Home PC Network Web site at There is a more complete review of wiring, with pictures for each step at Determine the needs and level of your students and you might want to refer some students to this Web site.

Can I create a network without wires? Many networks today use wireless technologies to connect devices to the network. A wireless network eliminates the cables that connect each device to the network, enabling you the freedom to move away from the network and still retain access to those resources, as long as you are within range of the transmitter.

Wireless Networking You can use wireless devices in a variety of ways. Wireless technology can be used on: –Laptops –personal digital assistants (PDAs) –mobile phones –two-way pagers –automobiles

Using Wireless Systems Students can visit some of the online sites that provide information about wireless systems, including: –Linksys ( –Proxim ( –3com (

How do I install the hardware? You can look at the specification sheets for the hardware to ensure it offers all the features you need, such as network interface cards, a large enough hard drive, a fast enough processor, and other capabilities you might want. Once you have the hardware, you need to be careful where you place the computers. Once the hardware is in place, you are ready to start setting up the software.

How do I set up the software? The first step in connecting the hardware over a network is to install the network operating system. In many systems, the network operating system is already on the computer when you purchase it. Before installing the software, make sure that all cables are plugged in, all connection devices and resources are powered on, and that everything is functioning. During the process, the software may need to access the various components.

How do I choose an ISP? Before you actually connect to the Internet, you must first select an Internet Service Provider (ISP). An ISP is a company that charges a fee to provide a doorway to the Internet. You need to consider several things when determining the best ISP for your needs: –Services –Size –Contracts –Support and Equipment

What type of connection do I have to the Internet? There is more than one way to connect to the Internet. You can have what is known as a dial- up connection in which the modem uses the standard phone line to dial up the ISP and connect to the Internet. This is the slowest method and is not usually efficient in the business world. You can also create a high-speed Internet connection that provides faster access to the Internet. There are several different types of high-speed connections.

What else do I need to know to get connected? As you learned earlier in this course, a protocol is a rule or guideline that ensures accurate communication. Both the network computers and the ISP must be able to understand each other so you can use the Internet. Any computer that connects to the Internet uses the TCP/IP Protocol Suite to transfer information.

What is the future of networking? The future of networking is an open book. Even looking ahead fifteen years is difficult. Just fifteen years ago, the World Wide Web didn't exist. There was no such thing as a browser. There were no laptops, no PDAs. So what's next? –What is the future of networking? –Can you even imagine the future?

What You've Learned About Creating a Network In this lesson, you have created a network. From selecting and installing cable and hardware to installing software and configuring the system, you have examined the steps necessary to get a network up and running. You have also looked at the basics of setting up a home network.