| The Building Blocks:Basic Components of Networks
There are as many definitions for the term "network" as there are networks. But most people would agree that networks are collections of two or more connected computers. Once their computers are joined in a network, people can share files and peripherals such as modems, printers, tape back-up drives or CD-ROM drives. And when networks at multiple locations are connected using services available from phone companies, people can send e-mail, share links to the global Internet or conduct video conferences in real time with other remote users on the network.
Every network includes:
- At least two computers.
- A network interface on each computer (the device that lets the computer talk to the network ? usually called a network interface card (NIC) or adapter).
- A connection medium ? usually a wire or cable, but wireless communication between networked computers and peripherals is also possible.
- Network operating system software ? such as Microsoft Windows 95 or Windows NT, Novell NetWare, Appleshare or Artisoft LANtastic. Most networks, even those with just two computers, also have a hub or switch to act as a connection point between the computers.
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