Networks

When choosing a network type (topology), four things should be considered: Cost, Expandability, Location of Your PC's and speed. This article does not explain every networking type available, but each of the following network types offer a solution.


Ethernet: 10/100Mbps
The most popular network method because of the low price of the network cards, reliability and speed; but it can be a pain to run the wires through your home.

Wireless Networks
802.11b is now the standard for wireless networking in both the home and business. It has become inexpensive, has good speed but may not is not appropriate for secure communications.


Firewire Networking
Modern operating systems now support networking over firewire cables. Most appropriate for short distances, firewire is FAST and inexpensive to install. Great for transferring huge video files between computers! 800Mbps firewire is on it's way too!

Bluetooth
A new wireless networking technology, bluetooth has recently made an appearance. It is easy to implement and will be VERY inexpensive soon. Because of its low speed (1.5Mbps) it is not appropriate as a replacement for other networks but IS valuable (as apple will soon prove).

Hubs and Switches

Proxy Servers

VPN - Virtual Private Network