imply feel more secure when using a wired
network, and others want to move lots of data very quickly. In either
case, a wired Ethernet network is the better choice. Ethernet networks
are faster than wireless networks, and they can be very affordable.
However, the cost of Ethernet cable adds up - the more computers on
your network and the farther apart they are, the more expensive your
network will be. In addition, unless you're building a new house and
installing Ethernet cables in the walls, you'll be able to see the
cables running from place to place around your home.
If you plan to connect only two computers, all
you'll need is a network interface card (NIC) in
each computer and a cable to run between them. The most commonly used
cable is Category 5 Unshielded Twisted Pair
(UTP) cable. If you want to connect several computers or other devices,
you'll need an additional piece of equipment - an Ethernet router.
You'll also need a cable to connect each computer or device to the
router provides wireless and Ethernet connections, and it acts as a
Once you have all of your equipment, all you need
to do is
install it and configure your computers so they can talk to one
another. Exactly what you need to do depends on the type of network and
your existing hardware. For example, if you choose an Ethernet network
and your computers came with network cards already installed, all
you'll need to do is buy a router and cables and configure your
computers to use them. Regardless of which type you select, the
routers, adapters and other hardware you buy should come with complete