Networking Basics - Key Concepts in Computer Networking

Start learning about computer networking basics by exploring this guide to the important concepts and technologies. The A-Z terms and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) lists span many essential topics, while other sections of this guide each focus on one core area of networks.
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3 Subcategories in Networking Basics - Essential Concepts in Computer Networking
31 Articles in: Networking Basics - Essential Concepts in Computer Networking
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Everything you need to know about computer networking from the start
What is a computer network? Computer networking is the practice of linking computer devices together to support digital communication among them.
How Computer Networks Work
A computer network without devices is like a book with no pages. Learn more about what kind of devices make a computer network tick.
How Computer Networks Work
A computer network interconnect is the glue which links devices together. Interconnects come in many forms and support several different kinds of networking.
How protocols work, part of the How Computer Networks Work series
Computer network protocols serve as the language by which devices can communicate with each other over shorter or longer distances.
Visual Index of Computer Networking Topics
This index of computer networking breaks down the basics of the topic into a series of visual exhibits that illustrate networks by example.
What Is Wi-Fi Computer Networking?
What is Wi-Fi? Answer this interactive multiple-choice question from our networking basics quiz.
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The beginner's guide to Internet and network file sharing
Computer networks allow you to share data files with friends, family, coworkers and customers. Learn about five different methods for file sharing.
Debunking Myths about Computer Networks
Have you been led to believe some of these common misconceptions about computer networks? Some of these facts may surprise you.
The 6 Most Pivotal Events in Computer Network History
The field of computer networking has been shaped by many key breakthroughs and technological developments over many decades. How many of these important events in the history of networking did you experience first hand?
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What Gear is Needed for a Wireless Home Network?
This article explains how to build a wireless home network. Pick a wireless design that's right for you, then choose the appropriate hardware, and install and configure your new wireless network.
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How many network operating systems do you use in an average day?
Operating systems help people interface with computers. Many different operating systems have been developed for PCs, phones, and embedded devices.
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The Simplest Network: Connecting Two Computers Together
The simplest kind of home network contains exactly two computers. You can use this kind of network to share files, a printer or another peripheral device, and even an Internet connection. Two computers can be networked together for file sharing in several different ways.
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An introduction to LANs, WANs, and other area networks
LAN and WAN are two common network domains, but many other types of area networks exist. Learn more about computer network types here.
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Exploring computer network topologies like bus, ring and star
Common network topologies include the bus topology, star, and ring. Learn more about these and other topologies in computer network design.
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Causes of Lag on Computer Networks and Online
Nobody likes lag on a computer network. The flow of data through a network can get slowed down for many reasons, with lag the end result. Fortunately, at least some of the causes of lag are easily preventable.
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Where to Get Free Books on Computer Networking
networking books, free computer networking books online
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What a network router can (and can't) do for you
What is a router? In computer networking, routers join two networks together. Some support only Ethernet connections while others also support Wi-Fi.
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What's a Network Server?
A server is a high-performance computer designed to process requests and deliver data over a network connection, like Web, proxy and FTP servers.
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What is TCP/IP?
The Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) provides connection-oriented communication between Internet devices. TCP/IP is commonly used both on the Internet and in home networks.
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What's a Network Protocol?
Network protocols serve as a language of communication among computing devices. A network protocol facilitates device identification and data transfer. Common Internet protocols include TCP/IP.
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What is a Network Firewall?
A network firewall guards a computer network against unauthorized incoming or outgoing access. Network firewalls may be hardware devices, software programs, or a combination of the two.
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What is Ethernet?
Definition: Ethernet is a physical and data link layer technology for local area networks (LANs). Ethernet was invented by engineer Robert Metcalfe. Many higher level network protocols like Internet Protocol use Ethernet as their transmission medium.
Home Network Troubleshooting
A computer network may fail to function properly for many different reasons. Understanding basic network troubleshooting methods in various situations will help you recover quickly on home networks and elsewhere.
Home Networking - Setting Up a Home Network
Home networks can be set up with or without Internet access, using various combinations of computer hardware and software.
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Need to Know What A "Computer Network Address" Is? Here's the Answer
Network addresses give computers unique identities they can use to communicate with each other. Specifically, IP addresses and MAC addresses are used on most home and business networks.
Internet Access and Services
Get on the Internet, share broadband Internet or other connections among network devices, and take advantage of all the Web has to offer.
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What Can Wireless Power (Electricity) Do For You?
Wireless electricity may seem like the dreams of science fiction, but some examples of it exist in real life today, and more are on the way.
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The role of computer networks in social networking
Social networks run over computer networks. Good social networks need more than just the right computer networking support, but it's a good start.
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Famous crimes and criminals on computer networks and the Internet
How many of these famous computer network criminals do you recognize?
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Do you recognize these magic numbers often found on computer networks?
These magic numbers mean a lot on computer networks. How many are you familiar with?
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Do you know these famous people in wireless and computer networking?
Among the many engineers and scientists involved in computer and wireless networking, very few have become famous. You need to know these names.
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