Begin your study of computer networking basics by exploring these key concepts and essential

technologies.

13. A-Z Networking Terms (280)

14. Basic Networking FAQs (9)
15. Basic Computer Architecture (8)
16. Home Networking

13. Broadband / Internet

14. Network Hardware
15. Network Troubleshooting
16. Basic Computer Architecture

How Big Is Your Network?

Do you run a simple home network with just a few PCs, manage a business network with
thousands of clients, or operate a Wi-Fi hotspot? Here our readers share descriptions of the size
of their networks and what kinds of devices they are made of.

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What is (Computer) Networking?

Networking is the practice of linking computing devices together with hardware and software
that supports data communications across these devices.

Visual Index of Computer Networking Topics

This guide presents the essential concepts of computer networks in a sequence of visual
illustrations designed to teach networking basics by example.

Networking Basics Quiz / Q&A

Answer this series of common questions about basic computer networking concepts to quickly
expand your knowledge of the topic.
Network File Sharing 101
Computer networks allow you to share files with friends, family, coworkers and customers.
Learn about the different methods for file sharing including Windows, FTP, P2P and Web based.

Operating Systems and Computer Networks

Computers use low-level software called an operating system to help people build and run their
own programs. Operating system software runs not just on laptop computers but also on cell
phones, network routers and other gadgets. An O/S normally provides basic networking support
for Ethernet, Wi-Fi and sometimes Bluetooth and other wireless protocols.

Connecting Two Computers

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.

Introduction to Area Networks and Network Types

LAN and WAN are two common types of networks but many others exist.

Basic Network Topologies

One way to classify computer networks is by their topology. Common network topologies
include the bus, star, and ring.

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Free Computer Networking Books

Numerous published books are available for free download on the Internet. However, not very
many quality, free titles are available on basic computer networking topics.

Network Routers
A router is a small hardware device that joins multiple networks together. These networks can
include wired or wireless home networks, and the Internet.

What Is a Network Protocol?

Protocols serve as a language of communication among network devices. Network protocols like
HTTP, TCP/IP, and SMTP provide a foundation that much of the Internet is built on. Find out
more about these protocols and how they work.

What Is a Server?
In computer networking, a server is a computer designed to process requests and deliver data to
other computers over a local network or the Internet. Common types of network servers include
Web, proxy and FTP servers.

TCP/IP - Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol

TCP/IP provides connection-oriented communication between network devices. TCP/IP is very
commonly used both on the Internet and in home computer networks.

Firewalls
A network firewall guards a computer against unauthorized network access. Firewalls are one of
the essential elements of a safe home or business network.

Networking Basics: Ethernet

Ethernet is a physical and data link layer technology for local area networks (LANs). Ethernet is
reliable and inexpensive, the leading standard worldwide for building wired LANs.

Networking Basics: Switch

A network switch is a small hardware device that joins multiple computers together at a low-
level network protocol layer. Switches differ in important ways from both routers and hubs.

Network Addresses
Network addresses give computers unique identities they can use to communicate with each
other. Specifically, IP addresses and MAC addresses are used on most home and business
networks.

"Computer Networking First-Step"

Many books exist dedicated to home networking, specific network technologies like wireless or
TCP/IP, or various academic networking topics. This one covers the overall field of computer
networking.