What's the best home network?
That's easy. It's the one that does what you want...
Deciding what type is the best home network for you starts with determining exactly what you want to do with your network. There are many type of networks that you can create in your home. Once you know what the "job" is, you can decide what type of network you need.
Determining your home network requirements
- Will you want to connect to the internet?
- Will you have more than one computer on the network?
- Do you want to be able to connect without cables (wireless)?
- Will you be sharing large files between computers such as pictures, music and videos?
- Will the computers use the network to print to a printer?
- Do you want your home video (television) or home audio (stereo) system to be part of your network?
- Will you want your home phone system to be included (VOIP)?
Once you can answer these questions confidently, it becomes much easier to decide on what type of network to create. You can learn more about designing the best home network here.
Public versus Private
It is important to make a distinction here regarding public networks versus private networks. When we use the term "public network" we are speaking of the what most people know as "the internet". When we use the term "private network" we are referring to the much smaller networks found inside a business or residential home.
There are a variety of ways you can connect to the public internet and there are a variety of ways you can connect a group of computers together within a business or residential home.
Now we can explore the variety of ways you can connect both the computers inside your home and to the public internet as well as the pros and cons of each.
Types of Private Networks
Wired Networks
The most common method of networking computers, the traditional wired network, involves using special cabling that is permanently installed throughout the site to connect the desired devices. Wired networks are the most reliable and the most secure and is a leading candidate for best home network.
Wireless Networks
Wireless networks use radio waves to transmit signals through thin air, eliminating the need for network cabling. Isn't modern technology wonderful? When combined with a traditional wired network, the resulting hybrid is the "winner" for best home network.
Phone Line Networks
This type of network involves using the regular telephone lines that are already installed in your home to transmit data eliminating the need for any extra cabling.
Power Line Networks
Although still developmental, power line networks, which use the existing electrical wiring already present in your home to transmit computer data, may be the future of pain-free home networking.
Types of Internet Connections
DSL Connection
DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) connections are provided by a variety of companies and use the vast existing telephone network to deliver high-speed internet access to almost any area with telephone service.
Cable Connection
Cable modem connections provide high-speed internet access in varying speeds through the same coaxial cable network that normally carries your cable tv signal.
Satellite Dish Connection
In areas where DSL or cable internet access is not available, satellite dish access can provide internet access at somewhat higher prices.
Power Line Connection
Although still developmental. power line modems promise to deliver high-speed internet access over the existing electrical wiring via the regional power grid.
Cellular Connection
A relative newcomer to the internet access lineup uses a cellular card to provide broadband speed over the cellular telephone network.
