If you have used a computer on a college campus or in a large office, you have most likely been involved in a network. A computer network is basically a group of computers that are linked together. Because they are linked, they can communicate with one another. This allows them to share files, printers, and even Internet connections.
While networking is popular in universities and offices, it can also be used within a home. Several different computers can be linked together within the home, allowing a family to share with one another. Networking at home has its advantages. Parents can send their children valuable information, but can also limit certain files. For instance, parents can share a flight itinerary for an upcoming family trip, but can restrict access to files about financial matters, so that the children cannot view them.
Phone-Line and Power-Line Networking
There are a few ways to set up a network of computers. The first is through phone lines. If the computers are all near phone jacks, phone lines can be an easy way to link up computers. If they are not near phone jacks, well, you could run extension phone lines where necessary. Phone line networking is an inexpensive, standardized way to link computers. However, it is also very slow. Ethernet can transfer information as much as ten times faster than phone lines. But, if you don't plan on sharing many large files between computers, phone lines can be a good option.
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By Christy Patrick
