A network can also be set up through power lines. A benefit of power-line networking is that there are usually outlets in every room of a house and certainly an office and, of course, wherever you are going to put a computer (since your computer requires one). The transfer rate can be a little quicker than phone-lines and it is still very inexpensive since it does not require any additional wiring.
Ethernet and Wireless Networking
The most popular form of networking, however, is through Ethernet. Ethernet can hook up two computers or one hundred. The only limit is the number of jacks you have installed and the number of cables you buy. If the computers are relatively close together, like in a small office, this can be one of the cheapest ways to build a network. It also has one of the fastest transfer rates. If the computers are far away, you'll have to work out the wiring, and any additional equipment or jack installation will cost you extra.
A newer form of network uses WiFi. This wireless Internet system means that no one will have to trip over wires. A few cords are used simply to hook the incoming Internet to the hub. Then, each computer has a WiFi card installed and configured (if it doesn't already have one built-in). Once the computers are configured, they can go anywhere in the office building or house and have access to both the Internet and the company or family network.
By Christy Patrick
