The Complete Bright Hub Home Networking Guide

Defining Home Networks and What They Can Do For You
A home network allows you to hook up all your computers, televisions, game consoles and other gadgets to a single Internet connection.
However, an excellent home network does not happen by accident. A successful network is the result of thorough knowledge combined with careful planning. Before you set up a network, spend time learning about what defines a network and what a network can do for you. This collection of articles and guides will help you build a solid foundation before attempting to install a network of your own.
- Defining a Home Network
- A Guide to Home Networking with Windows
- Advantages and Disadvantages of Networking
- Understanding Ethernet - The History of Ethernet
Understanding Network Operation
We have defined a network and learned some history of networking. Now you should learn how a network operates. This section contains links to valuable Bright Hub articles that take you step-by-step through the basics of networking computers together at home. Time spent learning these important principles prepares you for a lifetime spent enjoying the benefits of home networking.
- Computer Networking Basics
- Computer Networking Between Laptops
- A Guide to Area Networks: Computer Networking Basics
- Networking Basics for Beginners in a Plug and Play World
How to Build a Home Network
With a solid foundation of networking principles, you should now learn how to build a network. You can create something as simple as a two-computer network or you can build a network suitable for your home-based business. Prepare yourself for the task by reading these Bright Hub resources. The tips and tricks found here can help you manage Windows, routers and more. You can even learn how to make your home network eco-friendly. Learn it all from experts who have done it all before.
- Connecting Two Computers Directly Together
- How to Set up a Small Business Computer Network
- Building a Green Computer Network: By the Numbers
- How to Setup Home Computer Network with Windows 7
- Using Multiple Computers, Networking, Collaboration & Other Tips
- How Do I Add a Computer to My Home Network? Networking Basics
Setting up Wireless Networking at Home
Experience the true freedom of wireless networking. Before wireless, home networks needed wires. Cables ran through rooms, under
floors, between walls and in ceilings. Those days have come and gone thanks to wireless technology. You can now install a wireless router and share connectivity with devices all over the house with ease, without making a mess. Configuring the wireless part of a network can be tricky. Wireless technology adds security and connectivity concerns, so be sure to read these helpful articles before getting started.
- Set Up a Wireless Network for Dummies
- Bright Hub Looks at Wireless Networking
- Wireless N Buyer’s Guide to Choosing a Router
- Can You Mix Wireless N with 802.11a/b/g Standards?
- Windows 7 Wireless Setup & Home Networking for Vista, XP, and Windows 7
- Wireless Protocols Explained - Key Differences Between Wireless N and G Protocols
Keeping the Bad Guys Out
Network security concerns every network, including those at home. In fact, home networks often have a bullseye on them because
hackers consider them as being less secure than corporate LANs. When hackers get into your network, you can lose your privacy, experience identity theft and become liable for criminal acts. For example, if your neighbor uses your network to download illegal content, your Internet provider could shut down your connection for abuse. Even worse, the police will come to your door looking for answers.
The best way to avoid problems is to create a secure network that keeps the bad guys out. No better place exists to learn practical home network security than Bright Hub. Read these common sense guides and learn how to create a safe home network.
- Computer and Network Security Research
- A Practical Guide to Securing Your Network
- Conduct an Audit to Secure Your Home Network
- Worry Free Computer Networks: Security and Privacy Advice
Getting the Most from a Home Network
With your home network now in place, it’s time to use it. Here, helpful articles tell you how to store and access files across the network, stream music, add storage and connect your iPhone to your home network. You have worked hard building and securing your home network, so you deserve to benefit from it as much as possible.
- “Home Sharing” in iTunes 9
- Networking Windows 7 Windows XP
- Mapping a Network Drive in Windows
- Connecting a Printer to a Home Network
- How to Connect iPhone to Home Network via Bluetooth
- Adding a Computer to a Home Network Using Windows XP or Vista
- Using Attached Storage Devices on a Home Network for Easy File and Folder Sharing - Setting Up a NAS Device
References
- Image Credit (Wireless network): Wikimedia Commons/Porao
- Image Credit (Padlock): Wikimedia Commons/Rappingwonders2
- Image Credit (Home Network Icon): Wikimedia Commons/DBGthekafu