As technology evolves, “networking” has become more prevalent in everyday conversations. It is no longer just a term reserved for IT professionals but an essential concept for anyone who uses technology. Whether using the internet, connecting to a printer, or accessing files on a shared drive, you are networking. In this article, we will explain what networking is, why it is necessary, the different types of networking, networking equipment, accessories, and courses.

What is networking?
Networking refers to the interconnection of two or more devices to facilitate communication and resource sharing. These devices can include computers, printers, servers, routers, and switches. There are several types of networking, including LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), MAN (Metropolitan Area Network), and PAN (Personal Area Network).

Types of networking
Here are the four main types of networking:

LAN
A LAN is a Local Area Network that connects devices within a specific geographic area, typically within a building or campus. LANs are commonly used in businesses, schools, and homes. LANs can be wired or wireless or be either peer-to-peer or client-server. A peer-to-peer LAN is a network where all devices are equal and can communicate with each other directly. A client-server LAN is a network where one or more devices act as servers, providing resources to other devices on the web.

 

WAN
A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a network that connects devices over a large geographic area, such as across multiple cities or countries. WANs can be wired or wireless, typically requiring routers and switches to connect devices. This network type is commonly used by businesses that have various locations.

 

MAN
A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) is a network that connects devices within a specific metropolitan area, typically within a city. Businesses and government agencies commonly use MANs.

 

PAN
A Personal Area Network (PAN) is a network that connects devices within a small area, such as within a single room or on a single person. PANs are commonly used for wireless devices, like Bluetooth headphones or smartwatches.

Types of networking equipment
To set up a network, you will need several pieces of equipment. Here are the most common types of networking equipment:

 

Routers
A router is a networking device connecting multiple networks, such as a LAN and a WAN. Routers are responsible for directing network traffic and ensuring data is sent to the correct destination.

 

Switches
A switch is an electronic networking device that connects devices within a single network, such as a LAN. Switches are responsible for directing traffic within the network and ensuring that data is sent to the correct device.

 

Hubs
A hub is a networking device that connects devices within a single network, such as a LAN. Hubs are similar to switches but are less intelligent and can cause network congestion.

 

Modems
A modem is an electronic networking device that connects a computer or other device to the internet. Modems can be wired or wireless, typically requiring an internet service provider (ISP) subscription.

Various networking accessories
In addition to networking equipment, several accessories are essential for setting up a network. These include cables, connectors, and adapters.

Cables
Networking cables connect devices like a computer to a router or a printer to a switch. The most common types of networking cables are Ethernet cables, which are used for wired networks.

 

Connectors
Networking connectors connect networking cables, such as an Ethernet cable to a router or a switch. The most common networking connectors are RJ45 connectors used for Ethernet cables.

 

Adapters
Networking adapters convert one type of connector to another, such as a USB to Ethernet adapter or a DisplayPort to HDMI adapter. Adapters can help connect older devices to newer networks or connect different types of devices.

Networking courses to check out
If you are interested in pursuing a profession in computer networking, here are three of the most popular networking courses:

CCNA
The Cisco Certified Network Associate, shortly called CCNA, is a comprehensive course that covers the basics of networking and more advanced topics such as routing, switching, and security. The CCNA course is designed for IT professionals who want to improve their networking skills and earn a certification.

 

CompTIA Network+
The CompTIA Network+ course is a vendor-neutral course that covers the basics of networking, including network architecture, network protocols, and network troubleshooting. The CompTIA Network+ certification is widely recognized in the IT industry and is a good starting point for those who want to pursue a career in networking and cybersecurity.

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate
The Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) course is a comprehensive course that covers networking, as well as other IT topics such as server administration and cloud computing. The MCSA certification is designed for IT professionals who want to improve their skills and become more proficient with Microsoft technologies.

As more aspects of our lives are digitized, it will be increasingly common to note new types of networks and new networking equipment that will make it easier for people to communicate and collaborate with others. Whether you are a business owner, an IT professional, or just someone who uses technology, networking is a concept that you need to understand.