Networking

At one time networking was only for the larger businesses using thick coaxial cable to link their computers together. Apple changed all that with the introduction of the LocalTalk network which enabled Macs to share data and use common printers. OK, so it was relatively slow but it worked.

The rest of the world caught up as 10 Base 2 ethernet evolved into what we have today - a versatile, simple to install cabling system offering speeds of 10Mbps, 100Mbps or even 1000Mbps using CAT 5 UTP 8 core cable. Apple phased out LocalTalk though it still retained the underlying protocol (AppleTalk) and made ethernet its standard network connection. Today most computers come with ethernet built in, and even if its not it is a simple matter to add a card. Also peripherals, such as printers, have ethernet interfaces making them easy to share amongst the computers on a network.

Since ethernet uses a Star topology it needs a central controller to distribute the data packets coming in from a particular device. Originally hubs were used and these transmitted the data to all the devices connected to it. This is like being in a room full of people with everyone shouting even though the messages are directed at individuals. Enter the Switch which gives one to one communication by decoding the address on the incoming data packets and ensuring they are only transmitted to the computer, printer etc they are directed at. This frees up bandwidth and gives faster overall communication; the switches are also 'intelligent' enough to ensure that a computer which can only work at 10Mbps can talk to one which prefers to work at 100Mbps without any stammering.

On cabled ethernet devices have to be with about 100m of the central switch/hub if longer distances are required then optical fibre is used.

Cable networking is great if it can be installed properly in trunking but so often it is just a lash up with loose cables training across the floor and behind desks. Indeed in the home it is often difficult to route the cable around the house since people are loathe to drill holes in walls or lift floorboard. In situations like this the answer is Wireless. A central BaseStation or Access Point communicates with computers and peripherals wirelessly. Not only is it simple to install it brings flexibility in that you can move the computers around to new locations without bothering with rewiring.

We have done lots of networking both for home users, small offices and even an Oxford College.