The internet connects people and computers, and network cards allow computers to communicate with each other. They are necessary for both wired and wireless networks, and are easy to install. Wireless networks offer flexibility but require more security precautions.
In the vast world of computers and technology, the internet serves as a lifeline. The World Wide Web connects everyone together, allowing users to chat with each other, purchase items instantly through websites, and find almost any information. If the Internet is the spinal cord of the technological world, network cards are the vertebrae that allow computers to communicate with each other.
A network allows one or more computers to connect to each other in a local area network (LAN) or allows them to connect to the Internet in a wide area network (WAN). Some networks are configured to allow both. In home applications, networking usually consists of allowing computers in a household to share the same printer, send and receive files, and connect the computers to the Internet.
In order for a computer to communicate with other computers or with an Internet Service Provider (ISP), it needs what is known as a network interface card or NIC. This card is usually found inside the computer and can be wired or wireless. Many computers offer both options.
A wired adapter requires an Ethernet cable. This cable resembles a telephone cable, albeit slightly larger in diameter, and its end is about twice the size of a standard RJ11 jack. An Ethernet cable is the standard for connecting a computer to a high-speed Internet modem or home network.
Many computers, especially laptops, now come with wireless network cards. These cards can communicate with a wireless router or network device. Wireless network cards allow laptop users to roam the house while remaining connected to the Internet, eliminating the need for a tethering Ethernet cable.
Although network cards are readily available, many computers already have one installed. In cases where a card is not pre-installed or if a user wants to upgrade their connection, network cards are actually quite simple to install. The instructions that come with a new card should provide adequate detail, and there are plenty of installation walkthroughs available online.
Whether you are building a wireless network or a wired network in your home, network cards are a necessity for every computer. A computer user should think seriously about a wireless network if he owns one or two laptops. While more security precautions may be required with a wireless network, and the speed may be slightly lower, the flexibility gained is often worth it.
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