Devices that are connected and able to communicate with each other, can be called a Network.
Networks can be divided into Public Networks and Private Networks.
- Public Network is a network which is meant for public communication. In general it is referred to as 'The Internet'.
- Private Network is any network that is totally on its own or that is connected to a Public Network through a Firewall which makes the Private Network invisible to the outside.
On this page we only deal with Private Networks.
Private Networks can be found in Residential Homes and as Business networks. Although most Residences have relatively simple networks, you will find more and more complex networks which involves connecting different devices such as computers, printers, Xbox, stereo, video players etc. in one network.
Private Networks can be present in different forms:
- Devices are connected through a dedicated network of wires. Usually this is a 'twisted pair wire' of which a CAT5, CAT5e or CAT6 wire are the most common for network purpose.
- Devices are connected wirelessly. One or more 'Access Points' are setup for the devices to connect to and communicate with each other.
- Devices are connected through the electrical wiring (Powerlines) in the building.
In general a mix of the different network forms are used and complement each other.
Although there are more ways to connect devices to each other, the three mentioned here are the ones used most in today's environment.