| A home network is a group of two or
more computers linked together. Networking your computers and other
devices allows you to connect them to the Internet at the same time and to
share files and hardware, such as printers. A network also makes it easy
to move information from one computer to another (especially very large
files that don't fit on a floppy or Zip disk).
A home network is configured by first connecting a cable modem to a
cable outlet. Then a router connects to your cable modem and distributes
the signal to multiple devices to share the connection, files, printers
and/or Internet-ready game consoles. The router also acts as a firewall to
protect your home network and files from outsiders.
What's the difference between wired and wireless?
Your computers and other devices are connected to the
network router by wireless adapters. This works well when the devices you
want to connect are portable, such as a laptop or game console, in
different rooms of your home and/or not near a cable outlet. In these
fast-paced times of multi-tasking, it’s handy to be able to use your
laptop from your sofa, kitchen table or patio, rather than being confined
to a room near the modem and cable outlet. The typical range of a wireless
network is up to 300 feet. With a wireless Home Network from Cox, you can
connect up to 4 computers or other devices. Occasionally, a wireless
signal extender (at additional charge) may be needed in very large homes
or when the signal must penetrate thick walls.
Your computers and other
devices are connected to the network router with wires (called CAT5 or
Ethernet cables). This works well when the devices you want to connect are
in the same room and near a cable outlet. This does not facilitate moving
the devices frequently, although they could be moved to another room with
a cable outlet at some future point if desired (installation fees would be
applicable). With a wired Home Network you can connect up to 256
computers or other devices.
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Home Network Install/Support |
