How to Learn Computer Networking

Learning Computer Networking Basics

1. Understand what computer networking is. Networking refers to connecting two or more computers to one another, usually for the purpose of sharing files between them. This concept also applies to network items (e.g., printers) which can be shared by any computers which are networked to the computer to which the printer is connected.

   1. Networking usually requires that you enable settings on your computer which make it more vulnerable to outside interference. If you're going to network your computer, make sure it has a password.
   2. Networking can also apply to wireless connections, such as the ones used to connect one computer to an Internet modem.

2. Know the different components of a wireless connection. When connecting your computer to a wireless Internet connection (Wi-Fi), you'll need to know what the following terms mean:

   1. Router — Connects to an Internet modem in order to broadcast a wireless Internet signal.
   2. Modem — Bridges the connection between the hard-wired Internet cable and the router. Some routers and modems are built into the same unit.
   3. SSID — The name of your wireless network.
   4. Key — The password used to log into your wireless network.

3. Learn how Ethernet works. You can use Ethernet cables to connect two computers to one another, to connect a computer directly to the modem or router, or to connect a computer to another network item such as a printer. Using Ethernet generally leads to a more consistent connection between two items, but can also be limiting due to the fact that not all computers support Ethernet.

   1. Ethernet cables can be found in tech stores and in online locations such as Amazon.
   2. If you're using a Mac laptop or some Microsoft notebook laptops, you most likely don't have an Ethernet port. You can solve this problem by buying a USB (Windows) or USB-C (Mac) Ethernet adapter and plugging it into your computer.
   EXPERT TIP

   Luigi Oppido

   Computer Repair Technician & Owner, Pleasure Point Computers

   Luigi Oppido is the Owner and Operator of Pleasure Point Computers in Santa Cruz, California. Luigi has over 25 years of experience in general computer repair, data recovery, virus removal, and upgrades.

   Luigi Oppido
   Computer Repair Technician & Owner, Pleasure Point Computers

   Expert Trick: The easiest way to understand how networking words is to plug two computers into a network switch. Then, use one computer to try to look at files on the other. Adjust the workgroup, and shared folders, and network settings until you get it figured out.

4. Connect a computer to Wi-Fi. Connecting to Wi-Fi will vary slightly depending on your computer, but you'll usually click the Wi-Fi logo in your computer's taskbar or menu bar, click the name (SSID) for your preferred Wi-Fi network, enter the password for the network, and follow any on-screen instructions from there.

   1. Always make sure you're in range of the Wi-Fi network when connecting. In most cases, this means being within around 100 feet of the router, though being closer when first connecting is best.

5. Always use a password. As mentioned earlier, networking your computer places it in a vulnerable state in which others can view your files. If your computer uses a password, this isn't a problem; however, failing to use a password means that anyone on your network who has your computer's username can view your computer's files.

   1. The same goes for your wireless network.