How to build a simple computer network

Building a simple computer network

A simple computer network may be constructed from two computers where network adapter (Network Interface Controller ( NIC )) is added to each computer and then connecting them together with a special cable crossover cable. This type of network is useful for transferring information between two computers that are not normally connected to each other by a permanent network connection or for basic home networking applications. Alternatively, a network between two computers can be established without dedicated extra hardware by using a standard connection on both computers, connecting them to each other via a special null modem cable which is cross linked.

Practical networks generally consist of more than two interconnected computers and generally require special devices in addition to the Network Interface Controller that each computer needs to be equipped with. Examples of some of these special devices are hubs, switches and routers.