Networking, also called computer networking, is the process of transferring and exchanging information between nodes on a network using a common medium. This is useful for companies, service providers and users around the world to share information, work, or provide or serve services. The Internet itself forms the backbone for networking; however there are different types of networks based upon the type of technology used, its geographical location and other factors.
A local area network, or LAN, refers to a computer system that uses one main Ethernet cable to connect all the computers on a local area network. It is easy to extend this network to include the Internet, making it a Local Area Network. A Wide Area Network, or WAN, is a collection of interconnecting internet providers that are in a Local Area Network. The WAN requires three connections, including a connection through a hub to the other computers in the system, a connection to the WAN router or server, and a connection to the Internet. Popular examples of WANs include DSL and cable modem networks.
Networking in computer systems can also involve a Wide Area Network or VPN. A VPN is a type of tunneling technology that allows information to be protected from unauthorized use. It works by splitting up the Internet into various parts, such as secure local area networks or secure remote areas. Each part of the network has its own Internet connection. In some cases, VPNs may be used to mask certain information or make it harder to pinpoint where an email or other data is coming from.
Some types of networking require more than simple connection to the Internet. For example, an ISDN service (which is also sometimes referred to as IP-based) provides users with their own telephone number, which they can use to connect to the ISDN service from anywhere in the world. Another popular example of ISDN is VoIP, or voice over Internet protocol. This type of service is usually offered through phone lines, so if you have one, you need to have a phone connection.
Computer networking is often done through what is called a computer network or intranet. The Intranet, which predates the Internet by several years, was actually designed to replace the traditional file server computer systems. File servers, or servers that allow files to be stored on their own, were very susceptible to security breaches. By using an intranet, information is more secure and less likely to be hacked into.
Another common form of computer networking is called local area network or LAN. LANs can connect devices that are physically very far apart, allowing them to share information. An example of a LAN is a home network that consists of a printer, scanner, and a personal computer. Such a network can include wide area network capabilities, such as file sharing and Internet access.
Networking is not solely used for computer networks. Wireless networks, or networks using radios instead of wires, can also be established. Wireless networks are growing in popularity as wireless printers revolutionize the way we do business. Traditional phone lines (and their analog cousins) are slowly being replaced by wireless internet connections, although they still aren’t free. Other types of networking include things like the Local Area Network, or LAN, that lets computers in a defined area communicate with one another.
These networking courses provide the knowledge employers are looking for. However, not everyone who enrolls in networking courses has the appropriate skills for the job. Some people who take networking courses simply don’t have the background or experience for a particular position. For that reason, networking courses are frequently taken by those who are already employed, so they can help these individuals land the position they need and deserve.