Computer networking systems allow multiple machines to communicate with one another, exchange data and information, and access system resources. While home computer networking can be set up if you have multiple computers at your residence that you want to interface with one another, networking computers is most common in business environments.
Essential Features of a Computer Network
At minimum, your computer network should be set up so that all connected machines can share data and use common system resources like printers. The term "Intranet" is used to describe online files, data and documents that are accessible only by connected computers.
Computer Networking Options
There are three main types of computer networks: local area networks (LANs), metropolitan area networks (MANs) and wide area networks (WANs). Usually, a home or small business computer network is a LAN.
A local area network is usually confined to a single location. They often use peer-to-peer or client servers to facilitate communications among the machines in the network.
A metropolitan area network is, essentially, made up of multiple LANs that are integrated together. They are set up to work within the confines of a specified geographic zone, usually a city, region or country.
Wide area networks are very complex and are rarely used, except by large multinational businesses. They have the ability to communicate internationally. In fact, the Internet itself is a WAN that is comprised of a multitude of smaller LANs and MANs.
Wireless computer networking uses radio transmitters and receivers rather than cables to connect individual computers to the network. They are becoming increasingly common as wireless technology continues to improve.
Setting Up a Computer Network
Both home and small business computer networks are typically set up by information technology (IT) professionals. These skilled individuals provide all of the computer networking hardware and computer network support you need to keep everything running smoothly.
If your organization doesn't have the budget to hire an IT professional on staff, keep in mind that you can hire IT people on a contract basis. The work contract should include the labor, hardware and software needed to get the network up and running, along with any ongoing support you may require in the event that you experience problems.