Introduction To Networking; Networking Terms You Should Know; Ethernet Networking; Wired Ethernet Networking - Gateway EC19C User Manual

Introduction to Networking

Networking terms you should know

DHCP—Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) lets a router temporarily assign
an IP address to a computer on the network.
IP Address—Internet Protocol (IP) address is a number that uniquely identifies a
computer on the network.
LAN—A local area network (LAN) is a computer network covering a local area, like
a home or office. Wired and wireless Ethernet are common methods of creating a
LAN.
PAN—A personal area network (PAN) is a computer network used for communication
among computer devices (including cellular telephones, personal digital assistants,
and printers) close to one person. A wireless personal area network (WPAN) is made
possible with Bluetooth. The primary purpose of a WPAN is to replace USB or Firewire
cables.
Subnet Mask—Subnet mask is a number that identifies what subnetwork the
computer is located on. This number will be the same on all computers on a home
network.
WAN—A wide area network (WAN) is a computer network that covers a broad
geographical area. The largest and most well-known example of a WAN is the
Internet.

Ethernet networking

Wired Ethernet networking

A wired Ethernet network consists of two or more computers connected together
through an Ethernet cable. This connection type is commonly used in offices around
the world and can be used to build computer networks in the home.
Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, or Gigabit Ethernet
wiring in your home or office. Your municipality may require you to obtain
a permit and hire a licensed installer.
Ethernet is available at three different speeds. Standard Ethernet runs at 10 Mbps,
Fast Ethernet runs at 100 Mbps, and Gigabit Ethernet runs at 1000 Mbps. Most home
networks are built using Standard or Fast Ethernet components. Business networks
are typically built using Fast or Gigabit Ethernet components.
To create a wired Ethernet network, you or your electrician must install special
Ethernet cables in your home or office.
Using a router
The most common way to set up a wired Ethernet network is Dynamic Host Control
Protocol (DHCP) using a router. A DHCP network configuration uses a router to
automatically assign IP addresses to each computer or network device. For
information on setting up a router, see the router's documentation.
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CHAPTER 5: Networking Your Notebook
Important
Check local code requirements before installing Ethernet cable or other