Networking All-in-One Desk Reference For Dummies
Chapter One
Understanding
Networks
In This Chapter
Introducing computer networks
Finding out all about clients, servers, and peers
Understanding the various types of networks
Figuring out the disadvantages of networking
The first computer network was invented when ancient mathematicians
connected their abacuses (or is it abaci?) together with string so they
could instantly share their abacus answers with each other so they could
get their work done faster. Over the years, computer networks became more
and more sophisticated. Now, instead of string, networks use electrical
cables, fiber-optic cables, or wireless radio signals to connect computers to
each other. The purpose, however, has remained the same: sharing information
and getting work done faster.
This chapter describes the basics of what computer networking is and how
it works.
What Is a Network?
A network is nothing more than two or more computers connected to
each other so that they can exchange information, such as e-mail messages
or documents, or share resources, suc ... read full excerpt from Networking All-in-One Desk Reference For Dummies ebook