"Networking Basics: What You Need To Know"

When looking at networking basics, understanding the way a network operates is the first step to understanding routing and switching. The network operates by connecting computers and peripherals using two pieces of equipment; switches and routers. Switches and routers, essential networking basics, enable the devices that are connected to your network to communicate with each other, as well as with other networks.

Though they look quite similar, routers and switches perform very different functions in a network.

Networking Basics: Switches

Switches are used to connect multiple devices on the same network within a building or campus. For example, a switch can connect your computers, printers and servers, creating a network of shared resources. The switch, one aspect of your networking basics, would serve as a controller, allowing the various devices to share information and talk to each other. Through information sharing and resource allocation, switches save you money and increase productivity.

There are two basic types of switches to choose from as part of your networking basics: managed and unmanaged.

1. An unmanaged switch works out of the box and does not allow you to make changes. Home-networking equipment typically offers unmanaged switches.
2. A managed switch allows you access to program it. This provides greater flexibility to your networking basics because the switch can be monitored and adjusted locally or remotely to give you control over network traffic, and who has access to your network.

Networking Basics: Routers

Routers, the second valuable component of your networking basics, are used to tie multiple networks together. For example, you would use a router to connect your networked computers to the Internet and thereby share an Internet connection among many users. The router will act as a dispatcher, choosing the best route for your information to travel so that you receive it quickly.

Routers analyze the data being sent over a network, change how it is packaged, and send it to another network, or over a different type of network. They connect your business to the outside world, protect your information from security threats, and can even decide which computers get priority over others.

Depending on your business and your networking plans, you can choose from routers that include different capabilities. These can include networking basics such as:

1. Firewall: Specialized software that examines incoming data and protects your business network against attacks
2. Virtual Private Network (VPN): A way to allow remote employees to safely access your network remotely
3. IP Phone network : Combine your company's computer and telephone network, using voice and conferencing technology, to simplify and unify your communications

How Routing & Switching Keep the Business Going

Routers and switches are the building blocks for all business communications from data to voice and video to wireless access. They can improve a company's bottom line by enabling your company to increase productivity, cut business costs, and improve security and customer service.

Specifically, routers and switches support the business in many ways:

• Sharing applications
• Speeding access to information
• Enhancing customer service
• Reducing operating costs
• Improving security
• Enabling remote connections

Building a Small Office Network: The Difference Between Switches and Routers

When building a small office network, the two most essential pieces of equipment you will need are switches and routers. Though they look similar, the two devices perform different functions in a network.

• Switches connect multiple devices (computers, printers, servers) on the same network within a building or campus. A switch enables connected devices to share information and talk to each other. Building a small office network isn't possible without switches to tie devices together.

• Routers tie multiple networks together. When building a small office network, you'll need one or more routers. A router connects your networked computers to the Internet. This enables all connected computers to share one single Internet connection. A router acts as a dispatcher, choosing the best route for your information to travel. It connects your business to the world, protects information from security threats, and can even decide which computers get priority over others

Building a Small Office Network: Determining the Best Foundation

When building a small office network, it's important to determine the best foundation for your company's needs. The following tips should help you get started.

• Invest in business-grade switches and routers for reliable communications. Consumer or home networking products can't keep pace with the challenges of business growth.
• Invest in a network that can grow over time, so you can add features and functionality as needed. Additions to consider include video surveillance, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), integrated messaging, and wireless applications.
• Make sure your switches and routers are easy to install, use, and manage. Example: Switches with in-line power allow you to place equipment, such as wireless access points, anywhere there's a network wall jack. You'll be spared the trouble and expense of installing additional electrical outlets or wires to power the devices.
• Make sure your network is designed with reliability and redundancy in mind. This provides the business continuity you'll need to bounce back quickly from unforeseen circumstances.