Home Networking - Setting Up a Home Network

This article explains beginning concepts in home networking. Follow the embedded links to get technical details in areas of interest.

Answer some basic questions about your home networking needs, and this interactive tool will guide you in selecting the right home network equipment and configuration.

This collection of home network diagrams covers both Ethernet and wireless layouts. Network layouts including routers, access points, printers and entertainment consoles are described.

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. To connect two computers for sharing network resources, consider these alternatives.

A network router can serve as the core of a home network, simplifying how computers and other equipment can connect to each other and share the Internet. Both traditional cabled routers and wireless routers are available.

Several different approaches can be used to set up a Linksys network including the Cisco Connect, Network Magic, and manual procedures.

Deciding whether to build a wired or a wireless home network is not trivial. This article explains what to consider when making an informed decision.

The 802.11g standard supports much faster peer networking than the older 802.11b standard. These routers are designed to share a broadband Internet connection and usually contain a built-in firewall, DHCP server, and network switch.

Get the features of a switch, a firewall and connection sharing software all in one package. Besides accommodating DSL or cable modem Internet service, broadband routers can also support online gaming, Web hosting and VPN.

Hubs are a cheap, easy-to-use component of a basic home network setup. Learn more about popular models of hubs, how much they cost, and what features they provide.

Home network backup systems maintain copies of your personal electronic data in case of computer failures or disasters.

These remote access software programs supports connecting to a PC on home networks. Remote access software allows you to retrieve data when not at home or assist family members with network problems.

NAS drives consolidate large amounts of data into one place on a local network. The products listed are entry-level NAS solutions suitable for home network backups and organized central storage.

How long does it normally take to install a home network? This poll contains the answer based on our reader survey.

UPnP is a standard technology framework for simplifying the connection of network devices. UPnP is based on Internet Protocol (IP) addressing and Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP). The UPnP Forum organizes UPnP initiatives.

Test your knowledge of hub and switch technologies for modern home networking.

Infrared technology enables computer network communication using short-range wireless signals. The infrared transmission technology used in computers is similar to that used in consumer product remote control units.

The best books for home networking novices clearly explain the variety of technologies and setup options without adopting a condescending tone.

Wouldn’t it be convenient to store all your favorite movies, music CDs, MP3 files, and digital photos in one convenient location that you could access from anywhere? A media server provides this kind of storage.