Wireless Networking

About half of all households nationwide have a computer. It is also estimated that over 20 million households have more than one computer. This means that multi-computer households are becoming pretty common. And in multi-computer households we like to share. This is where networking comes in.

Networks make it easy to share printers, files, an Internet connection, etc. Most people think that networking is difficult - lots of wires, tricky connections, and so on. But, it's not as much of a challenge as you might think.

For a simple wired network, each machine requires a network card. If there are only two machines, we can use a special cable called a crossover cable. Just plug the ends of the cable into the network card of both machines and your set for the software installation.

For multiple machines we run normal cable (called RJ45) from each computer to a router that connects our PC and/or a modem for high-speed Internet use. A router is a device that keeps tracks of all the machines and passes the data back and forth.

If you're not crazy about more wire, go wireless. Here we use airwaves instead of wires. The Router is called a Wireless Access Point and usually handles the conversion from the airwaves to the wires. The airwaves become an extension of an existing wired network. The network card is typically referred to as a wireless adapter and includes some type of antenna.

Wireless is more expensive than wired though. But, if you don't want to tear up walls to run cable upstairs or you like to move your notebook from room to room, wireless is a wonder. To get around the cost, many of us leave our desktop machines with a wired connection. An Ethernet Card for a wired PC runs about $10 whereas the wireless version can be $50.

Wireless is also slower than a wired network. Connection strength varies by distance, interference, and how many users are accessing the wireless. Wireless systems are also not truly wireless. Our cable modems almost always require a cable to connect to the router. In other words, you will find some wires still lurking about.

There are also security concerns. Most of us will not configure our system due to the complexities. This leaves our network wide open to passerby's. In other words, your neighbor could be using your network with out you even knowing! Keep in mind though that a properly configured system takes care of any of these concerns.

If you are considering wireless also be careful of your kitchen. Yes, your kitchen. Interfering signals can be generated by "electromechanical devices", for example your microwave and can temporarily disrupt a communication link through the noise that they generate. The same holds true for blenders, TV's and any other motor driven appliance.

Nonetheless, if you have a notebook and want some freedom of movement - you can't beat wireless. After all, how could you not love anything that reduces the wires hiding behind you desk?