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CLICK HERE IF YOU JUST WANT BROADBAND

What is a Network?

A network is a means of connecting computers together so that their application programs and data can be shared, and to provide central backup facilities. Almost all networks today are based on Ethernet. Within your home or office, the network is referred to as a “Local Area Network” or LAN. Access can also be provided from the LAN to a “Wide Area Network” or WAN, such as the Internet, and hence the World Wide Web. The diagram shows an example network. The components of the network can be connected via cable or wireless. Cabled networks can operate up to 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps), and wireless up to 100 Megabits per second (Mbps).

Network Architecture

A network is centred on the “Ethernet Hub” or “Ethernet Switch” which routes the messages to and from the computers on the network. The Switch is often combined with a “Router” which provides a gateway to the Internet (or other WAN) for all computers on the network. The router may also be combined with an ADSL Modem. An example LAN architecture is shown below for a cabled network. Some, or all of the connections could, of course, be made by wireless.


	A “network interface card” or NIC is required in each computer: This can be cable or wireless, as standard PCI cards, or as a USB “Dongle”.


	Cable PCI NIC


	Laptops often have a wireless capability built in. If not, you may fit a PCMCIA wireless card or a USB “Dongle”.

	Wireless PCMCIA


		Wireless PCI NIC

	JUST WANT BROADBAND?

	If you have no need for a network, other than to connect a single computer to Broadband, then all you need is a low cost USB ADSL Modem




Wireless USB Dongle



		USB ADSL Modem

Broadband Providers

Unless you are cabled (e.g. Telewest), don’t just go to the broadband suppliers you have heard of, such as BT, AOL, Tiscali, Wanadoo etc, read what independent reviewers think of them all - you could save yourself a lot of money. Many (but not all) include a free ADSL modem in the price (usually USB only). If they don’t, check that they permit you to use your own modem - I can supply at around half the price they will demand for their modem. Have a look at

http://www.adslguide.org.uk/isps/summarylist.asp

Order the list by cost, select Info for any one of interest, then look at User Discussion.


	Prices GM Computing supplies and installs all networking and broadband hardware. My prices are very competitive. Please contact me on 01454-228704 or 07769780656, or e-mail me at gerry@millward.org.uk for guidance on current prices, or a quote for a specific item or task.

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