VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) is a logical local area network (or LAN) that extends beyond a single traditional LAN to a group of LAN segments, given specific configurations. Since a VLAN is a logical entity, its creation and configuration is done completely in software. How is a VLAN Identified? Since a VLAN is a …
The OSI Model was created based on recommendations from the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in 1980, which started expanding on the DoD model in the late 1970s. The current standard was published in 1996. The official title for the model is the ISO OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Reference Model since it describes or relates …
Windows and other operating systems have a WiFi signal strength meter, but this is usually basic software and does not really tell the user much about the wireless signal. Fortunately, there are many other programs that do the same thing, but show the user more details about the wireless connection. We will describe some of …
RG-6 cable is one of the more common types of coaxial cables used for commercial and household purposes. The term RG-6 is a generic label that can be used to describe a whole range of cable designs. In fact, all cable designs described under RG-6 may well differ from one another in center conductor composition, …
Multicast is the transfer of messages to multiple destinations simultaneously, using fewer networks. The information is delivered to each of the links only once, and copies are created when the links to the destinations split, thus creating an optimal distribution path. Multicasting reduces unnecessary packet duplication. A wireless network utilizes radio communication, unlike wired networks, …
802.11b is the standard that is popularly used for high speed wireless networks. The standard is set by IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) and uses a 2.4 gigahertz radio frequency. There are several standards that are in use today for wireless communication from one computer device to another; however 802.11b is cost effective, …
An ad hoc network is a type of peer to peer wireless network mode where wireless devices communicate with each other directly, without the aid of a Wireless Access Point (WAP) device. Wireless networks typically depend on a base station or WAP device to manage and direct the stream of data between wireless devices. In …
A wireless router is a wireless device that connects one computer or a whole network to another computer or network. It is possible to have a wireless network in a home or office. Travelers definitely come across wireless networks at most international airports. A wireless router, which is responsible for sending information from one computer …
Firewall protection works by blocking certain types of traffic between a source and a destination. All network traffic has a source, a destination, and a protocol. This protocol is usually TCP, UDP, or ICMP. If this protocol is TCP or UDP, there is a source port and a destination port. Most often the source port …
ADSL Internet Access Asynchronous Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) is a broadband Internet option that is commonly available in many locations. Asynchronous only means that the download speeds and the upload speeds are different (with the upload speeds usually being significantly lower) and provides a fast option to browse the web. Internet access through ADSL requires one …