What is computer networking?
Networking in computers is an area of technology requiring experts in research, analysis and resolution of issues related to how computers communicate. Computer network technicians specialize in successfully connecting multiple computers forming an internet of computers that exchange information and resources for communication purposes. H Grant Support puts customer needs first and offers personalized attention and collaboration, striving to meet expectations while surpassing them. H Grant Support prides itself on delivering fast, computer networking services compared to what is offered in the market – be it maintaining servers or staying in contact with global teams. If that’s what’s required of us – H Grant Support has you covered.
Basics of computer networking
Below are a few fundamental concepts of computer networking that a professional should be familiar with:
LAN vs. WAN
A local area network (LAN) refers to any network which connects computers within a particular localized area such as an office building or residence, used for sharing resources. Wide Area Networks or WAN are geographically unlimitable networks using DNS protocols and IP addresses as its foundation.
Clients and servers
A server is an enormous computer that stores images, provides online protocols, and other content accessible by clients. A client connects to this server in order to gain access to data or information – it could be your desktop PC at home, smartphone, tablet, laptop computer or browser with access to an API.
DNS lookup & IP addresses
Domain Naming System, more commonly referred to as DNS, is an essential element of network infrastructure. DNS assigns domain names with IP addresses; that way when entering them into your browser bar they’ll take you directly to their respective web page due to DNS search which looks up the associated IP address linked with them.
An IP (Internet Protocol) address identifies each device connected to the internet and links with other items like email addresses so you can receive data such as emails. When sending out emails via the internet, this IP address tells it which email addresses it should use when sending.
IP addresses may be manually assigned or received through Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol and can be easily examined using IPCONFIG/ALL operation on Windows computers.
Ethernet
Ethernet, or the Local Area Network Protocol, is the mainstay of today’s local area networks (LAN). Ethernet cables consist of essential components that link a computer device directly to a network – similar to interface cards for networks (NIC). Since the early 1990s, Ethernet has been the product of choice when connecting LAN networks due to its durability and user friendliness; its popularity even outdistanceing wired networking protocols like modems. Devices connected via Ethernet can be identified using their unique MAC address which network engineers use ARP, giving every device connected via Internet an unique identifier which gives each unique identifier unique to identify its unique MAC address which uniquely identifies it allowing network engineers convert IP addresses into unique MAC addresses which uniquely identify every device connected through internet networks connected via Ethernet network engineers’ help!
Default gateway
Your computer connects with devices outside your computing network through what’s known as its default gateway, accessible through router equipment. Network specialists rely on routers as essential tools in their daily work.
Routers and switches
Routers’ primary function is routing data between IP subnets; for example, connecting computers between LAN and WAN networks. They also can offer additional features, including security upgrades like firewalls as well as more functionality when used alongside multi-port switches.
Networking considerations
There are three deployment strategies you can employ when setting up a wireless network:
Cloud-based deployment
Connecting platforms and devices via the cloud is becoming a popular method for network management. Cloud-based deployments enable users to connect to one server that all connected devices share; all powered by Internet.
Converged deployment
Some small campuses and offices use converged deployment. Under this method, multiple elements such as wired and wireless devices are linked together in one access switch and then used for wireless control purposes as well as fulfilling its usual duties as an access switch.
Centralized deployment
Centralized deployment is the go-to method of network setup in offices or colleges. Centralization makes the network from one central point, consolidating it. Controllers manage this method.