SETTING-UP COMPUTER

NETWORKS
 Computer Network

We aim to understand how computers are connected to each other that is why it is essen
that we should be familiar with the different devices found in the workplace to perform n
connectivity.

It is important to understand that each workplace has a unique plan/map of how the
organization distributes information and who has access.

This lesson's goal is to simply familiarize ourselves with the different network devices
we'll get to connecting later.
Network Device / Equipment
Network Devices

Router
A device that forwards data packets along
networks. A router is connected to at least two
networks, commonly two LANs or WANs or a LAN
and its ISP's network. Routers are located
at gateways, the places where two or more
networks connect.
Network Devices
Switch
A device that filters and forwards packets between LAN
segments. Switches operate at the data link layer (layer 2) and
sometimes the network layer (layer 3) of the OSI Reference
Model and therefore support any packet protocol. LANs that
use switches to join segments are called switched LANs or, in
the case of Ethernet networks, switched Ethernet LANs.
Hub
A common connection point for devices in a network. Hubs are
commonly used to connect segments of a LAN. A hub contains
multiple ports. When a packet arrives at one port, it is copied to
the other ports so that all segments of the LAN can see all
packets.

Hubs and switches serve as a central connection

for all of your network equipment and handles a
data type known as frames. Frames carry your
data. When a frame is received, it is amplified and
then transmitted on to the port of the destination
PC.
Network Devices

Repeater
A network device used to regenerate or
replicate a signal. Repeaters are used in
transmission systems to regenerate
analog or digital signals distorted by
transmission loss. Analog repeaters
frequently can only amplify the signal while
digital repeaters can reconstruct a signal to
near its original quality.
Network Devices

Bridge
A device that connects two local-area networks (LANs), or two
segments of the same LAN that use the same protocol, such as
Ethernet or Token-Ring.
Local Area Network

Basically, a local area network, called as LAN, is a group of computers and connected devices
that share a common communication line (or may be wireless) to a server.

A LAN is where computers and mobile devices may share resources like printers, scanners,
storage, etc.
Local Area Network: Local Are Connection
Properties
To make sure that your LAN works properly, make sure that the following items are installed
and enabled in the Local Area Connection Properties:

Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)

The protocol that enables the computer to communicate with other computers in the
network. This can be set automatically or manually specified along with other network
information to work properly. Make sure however that each device has a unique IP.

LAN Settings
These are specific IP settings for the LAN interface.
IP Address is 192.168.0.1.
Subnet Mask is 255.255.255.0.

DHCP Server
Stands for Dynamic Host Control Protocol. This gives the IP Addresses when a device
starts and requests an IP address from the network. It can be set to obtain IP address
automatically.
Local Area Network: Different Network Location
Types
Private Network
This type is ideal for home networks where you trust all the people and the devices
using the network. By default, network discovery is turned on, allowing you to see other
computers and devices, and others can see you as well.

Public Network
This type is the safest. This is designed to keep your computer from being visible to
others and helps protect your computer from malicious software from the Internet. However,
network discovery is turned off and homegroup is not available on this network.

Domain Network
This is used for domains and at enterprise networks. This is controlled by the network
administrator.
Wide Area Network
Also known as WAN. This is a collection of computers and networks connected via a
network just like the LAN. However, in WAN, it is connected over a large geographic area.
The following are the WAN settings used to connect to the Internet Service
Provider (ISP):
Dynamic IP Address
This is to obtain an IP address automatically from the ISP.
Host Name
This is optional. Usually, this is the model number of the device.
MAC Address
This is optional. MAC stands for Media Access Control. The MAC Address is set
by default to the MAC Address of the WAN interface in the device.
Primary DNS Address/ Secondary DNS Address
This is optional. A Domain Name Server (DNS) is entered. If left blank, the ISP
provides the DNS address.
Auto-Reconnect
This feature allows the router to reconnect to the ISP automatically if connections is
disconnected.
Static IP Address
This is to set a specific IP Address that is still provided by the ISP. However, this is avoided
because this requires a lot of work and manual entry of network information.
PPPoE
Stands for Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet. Only used if the ISP uses this protocol. The
ISP provides the username and password.
Wide Area Network: IP Addressing
IP Address, or the Internet Protocol Address, is a numerical label assigned to a device
within a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol. It has two functions: (1) network
hosting ; and (2) location addressing.

The IPv4 is still in use today. It is a 32-bit number system.

On the other hand, a new version of Internet Protocol called the IPv6 makes use of 128 bits
for its address. (e.g. 2001:db8:0:1234:0:567:8:1)
Creating Network Cables
Creating Network Cables
Cable is the medium through which information usually moves from one network device to
another.
There are several types of cables which are commonly used with LANs. In some cases, a
network will utilize only one type of cable, while other networks will use a variety of cable
types.
The type of cable chosen for a network is related to the network's topology, protocol, and
size.
Understanding the characteristics of different types of cable and how they relate to other
aspects of a network is necessary for the development of a successful network.
Network Media: Wired
The network can be connected through two types of connections: wired and wireless.

Having a wired connection is more reliable than a wireless connection. However, wireless
connections are widely used by some devices such as cellphones and laptops for their
portability.
Network Media: Wired

1. Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cable

A popular type of cable that is commonly used for Local Area Networks. It has a
two shielded wires twisted around each other.
Network Media: Wired

2. Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) Cable

The extra covering of the STP Cable provides extra protection to prevent electromagnetic
interference.
Network Media: Wired

3. Coaxial Cable
This the cable commonly used in television industries. The metal shield surrounding the
cable helps block interference from fluorescence lights, motors, and other computers.
Network Media: Wired
Network Media: Wired

4. Fiber Optic Cable

Transmits light rather than electronic signals which reduce the risks of electrical interference.
It is ideal for environments where electrical interference is present.
Network Media: Wireless Connections

Wireless connections make use of LANs which allow high frequency radio signals to
communicate between work stations, servers, or hubs.

Wireless networks are ideal for allowing laptops, portable devices, and other devices
to connect to the LAN. This is also beneficial in establishments where it may be
harder to install cables.
Network Media: Wireless Networking

A wireless network is any type of computer network that use wireless data connections for
connecting network nodes.
Network Media: Wireless Networking

Wireless PAN
Stands for Wireless Personal Area Networks (WPANs). This connection interconnect devices
within a small area. An example would be bluetooth and infrared.
Network Media: Wireless Networking

Wireless LAN
Known as WLANs. This is used to connect to local resources and the internet. It links two or
more devices over a short distance using a wireless distribution method - usually through an
wireless router/wireless access point for internet access. Wi-Fi falls under WLANs..
Network Media: Wireless Networking
Wireless Mesh Networks
This is a wireless network made up of radio nodes organized in a mesh topology. It can be a

1 Wireless MAN or Wireless Metropolitan Area Network which

connects several WLANs.

2 Wireless WAN or Wireless Wide Area Network which covers large

areas such as cities/towns, branch offices, business, public internet
access system, etc.

3 Global Area Network (GAN) for used for mobile technology such as
texting, calling, etc.

4 Space Network which is used between spacecrafts within the

vicinity of earth. NASA's Space Network makes use of this
technology.
Cable Installation
In network installation, we have to be familiar with the RJ45 (Registered Jack).

It is a jack used for Ethernet networking and used for cables. Both T568A and T568B are
common wiring standards however the T568B is widely used in the Philippines.

There are two common network cabling namely the straight-through and the crossover
cables.
Cable Installation
Cable Installation

A straight-through cable is also known as the patch cable or Ethernet cable. This is
the most common format for network cables. The wires have same pins from either end.
This is used when connecting a computer to a modem, router, or switch. This is also used
between networking equipment that are not similar to each other.
Cable Installation

A crossover cable crosses the wires from the other end differently to the other. We use
these when we connect two devices of the same type like two computers or two similar
networking devices. These wirings use two different ends, T568A and T568B.
However, if we use a device between two devices (such as a switch), all cables are straight through.
Patch Panels
A patch panel, also known as patch bay, patch field, or jack field, is used to connect and route
circuits for monitoring, interconnecting, and testing circuits in a convenient and flexible matter.

Having an organized patch panel is important in the workplace. Although the patch panel is
meant for organization, it is still essential to minimize hazards such as hanging and open
network cables.
Patch Panels

Good patch panel cable management is important. Neat patch, for example, is one of
the most common patch panel cable management systems.

It allows users to store patch panels in a neat and tidy compartment. It is also
compliant with industry standards.
Patch Panels: Patch Panel to Modular Box
In connecting a patch panel to a modular box, it is important to take note that the UTP cable
at this time is neither a straight-through or crossover.

We will be installing both ends on a patch panel and a modular box.

(A) Patch Panel

> First, strip the outer covering of the cable

> Then, arrange the wires according to its proper color coding based on the color coding you
have done on the RJ45.

A – white blue / blue / white green / green / white orange / orange / white brown / brown

B – white blue / blue / white orange / orange / white green / green / white brown / brown
Patch Panels: Patch Panel to Modular Box
(B) Modular Box / Keystone

> Strip the outer covering of the cable

> Arrange the wires according to its proper color coding based on the color coding you have
done on the RJ45. Connect the cables just like the numbers arranged at the figure below.
 Configuring the Network

A computer network is a collection of computers and other devices linked together via
use networking devices. Networking devices are also called as communicating devices.

Computer networks are important because it ensures

effective transmission and sharing of data between
different computer devices.
Setting-up computer networks at your homes does not need to be complicated. Few basic
pieces of computer hardware are needed to connect your computers and other devices to
each other and to the Internet.
Network Categories
Personal Area Network This is used for communication among
(PAN) computer and different devices close to a
person. PAN usually reaches up to 10 meters.

Local Area Network (LAN) Consists of personal computers linked together

within a limited area. For example, within a
small building, office, floor, or department.

Metropolitan Area Larger thanDifference

LAN. It can span in in Network
no more than 50 Categories
Network (MAN) miles. It is used to cover a small

Wide Area Network (WAN) This type of network covers a large geographic
area such as a city or even a country. Different
types of communication channels such as
telephone lines, cables, and air waves are used
for this to be possible. The Internet is an
example of a WAN and it is the world’s largest
WAN.
 Difference in Network Categories

Difference in... LAN MAN WAN

Cost Low Optic High Higher

Network Size Small Large Largest

Speed Fastest Slower Slowest

Fiber Optic
Twisted Pair
Transmission Media Twisted Pair Radio Wave
Fiber-Optic Cables
Satellite

Number of Computers Smallest Large Largest

 Network Topologies

Basically, network topology is how the network of devices/computers is arranged

through the connection of various nodes through lines of connections.

Imagine a topology as a guide or a map in creating your own network.

There are different types of network topologies that we will be going through in this topic.
Network Topologies
Bus
Topology
This is a network type in which the computers and network devices are connected to a single
cable.

This type of network can transmit data in only one direction. Each device is connected to
a single cable.

PROS CONS
☑ Cost-effective ☑ When cable fails, the whole network fails
☑ Cable is required ☑ If network traffic is heavy, the performance
☑ For small networks of the network decreases
☑ Easy to understand and create ☑ Cable has limited length
☑ Easy to expand (through joining two ☑ Slower than ring topology
cables)
Network Topologies
Ring
Topology
This network forms like a ring where a computer is connected to another computer. The last
computer is connected to the first. Each computer has two neighbors.

It has a number of repeaters. The transmission is

unidirectional.

The data is also transferred in a sequential manner, bit

by bit.

PROS CONS
☑ Not affected by high traffic ☑ Hard to troubleshoot
☑ Cheap to install and expand ☑ Adding or removing a computer will disturb
network activity
☑ When a computer fails, the whole network is
disturbed
Network Topologies
Star
This type features all computers connectedTopology
through a single hub/switch through a cable. The
hub/switch is a central node and all others are connected to a central node.

Each node has a dedicated connection to the

hub/switch. This will act as a repeater as well for data
flow. This can be done using a UTP, optical fiber, or
coaxial cable.

PROS CONS
☑ Fast performance the fewer nodes ☑ High cost
☑ Low network traffic ☑ Expensive to maintain
☑ Switch/Hub can be easily upgraded ☑ When switch/hub fails, whole network stops
☑ Easy set-up and modification ☑ Switch/hub capacity controls the
☑ When a node fails, the others can work performance
smoothly
Network Topologies
Mesh Topology
This type is a point-to-point connection with other devices. The traffic is carried between two
devices which it is connected.

There are two types: (1) partial mesh topology where some of the
systems are connected in the same fashion as mesh topology but
some devices are connected to two or three devices; and (2) full
mesh topology where each and every device is connected to each
other.

This type features a full, robust connection. However, it is not flexible.

PROS CONS
☑ Each connection can carry own data load ☑ Difficult to install and configure
☑ Robust ☑ Expensive cabling cost
☑ Easy troubleshooting ☑ Bulk wiring
☑ Secure and private
Network Topologies
Tree Topology
This type has a root device and other devices are connected to form a hierarchy. Also known
as hierarchical topology. It should have at least three levels in the hierarchy.

This is ideal if workstations are located in groups. It is used in

WANs..
PROS CONS
☑ Can be extensions of bus and star ☑ Heavily cabled
topologies ☑ Expensive
☑ Easily expanded ☑ The more devices, the harder the
☑ Easily managed and maintained maintenance
☑ Errors are easily detected ☑ If central switch/hub fails, network fails
Network Topologies
Hybrid
Topology
This type is a mixture of two or more topologies. You may have a department in the office using
ring topology while the other uses a star topology. This is called a Hybrid Topology.

PROS
☑ Reliable
☑ Easy troubleshooting
☑ Errors are easily detected
☑ Easily scalable
☑ Flexible

CONS
☑ Complex
☑ Expensive

It can combine even more than two topologies. Both the advantages and disadvantages are included when you create a
hybrid, thus, ideal for a non-conventional set-up.
Activity:

Draw the Following Network Layout:

Router to Patch Panel
Router’s Patch Panel to Hub
Hub to Patch Panel to Modular Box for Server
Hub to Patch Panel to Modular Box for Client
Hub to Patch Panel to WAP