Computer Networks

to understand

wan -wide area network(probably Internet) (that's where your wireless router connects to Internet)

lan- local area network

wlan - wireless local area network
vpn- virtual private network (use encripted tunnels over internet)
cable: lan cables are pretty dificult to make yourself and need special tool-cable stripper&crimper

NAT - nat server is used to communicate with internet. Your pc (pcs) gets external ip address here (thas what shows when you google: "my ip address")

load balancer/ traffic shaper -haven't seen hardware, but exist in more expensive wlan routers (and software: wondershaper&cfoss)

network topology
this means how computers are connected (in a straight line, to hub, in circle- not all computers access each other, etc)


whenever document things:
make network scheme
troubles may occur more than once, so have solution written down


wireless networking advantages
easier to install
networks through walls and obstacles
allow quick temporary access (Internet for visitors, temporary networks, wlan party, etc)
equally secure- can be, but most aren't



how to secure wireless? disable ssid, enable mac filtering, enable encryption, certificates ...
AND MOST IMPORTANT: disable windows filesharing share --is easiest to hack someone