Building your Own Computer Network

Computer networks are highly recommended for workplaces and large households. By principle, a network allows several PCs to easily exchange files while sharing the same internet connection. This setup is beneficial to offices who aim to achieve a smoother operation, and to homeowners who want to cut down on their internet bills.

Building a network used to be daunting challenge for most users, given the arduous task of setting up operating systems and doing software configurations. But innovations of personal computers have made it easier even for non-tech junkies to perform this chore.

Easy Step by Step Guide in Building a Computer Network

All it takes now is to connect the PCs to a router, which will act as a switching station. The router will be directing signals to and from appropriate systems. This can be done in four simple steps:

1. Locate the router situated at a central location, and plug it in. Routers with a power switch should be turned on before a computer network can be set up. In sharing high-speed internet connections such as cable and DSL, it is imperative to plug the modem’s cord in the internet port located at the back of the router. The input is usually labelled with “www”, “Internet” or “wan”.

2. Connect the cable to the router of each of the computer’s networking jack. This port can be seen at the back of the computer monitor or central processing unit. As each wire is connected to the computer, light indicators turn on at the front of the router.

While this sounds easy, it is actually difficult to set up the cables to get them out of pathways and prevent people from tripping. One trick is to use sticky tape to temporarily hold the wires in place. Secure them with concrete staples and make sure the computers are placed where the users want them.

3. Switch all the computers on, and run the network configuration program of the operating systems. For Windows XP users, this process could start with opening the Network Setup Wizard from the control panel folder.

Those with Windows Vista, on the other hand, can locate the setup by clicking network and internet in control panel. Double click network sharing centre then setup connection or network.

Apple computers would automatically configure the networks.

4. Follow the steps included in the installation wizard. The setup box would simply ask a few questions about the network settings including the type of internet connection being used. Settings on file and printer sharing conclude the process. Click finish and the computer network will be good to go.

Organizing the Network

Data-heavy activities may often wear out the engine room and storage capacity, thereby slowing the operations of computers connected to a network. At some point, the manner at which the computers are arranged contributes to the problem. This is why network cabinets have been introduced.

It organizes the exchange of files, along with the setup of the computers. It is a device tailored to prevent the system from wearing down as a result of data-hefty activities done in computers connected to a network. Simply put, it retains the quality of the software and maintains the soundness of the computer systems.