Windows Networking Basics

The A+ course does not go into any great depth where networks are concerned, it concentrates on configuration of client machines in order to access LAN and the Internet and basic networking protocols.

Much of the configuration in Windows is the same across all Windows operating systems. You'll need a Network Operating System NOS to access resources on a server. Luckily Windows 9x/NT/2000 and XP are all capable of connecting to network resources, however the A+ also requires candidates to be able to configure Novell Netware as well.

Networking Prerequisites

• Network Interface Card (NIC)
  
• Spare PCI slot
• Supplied manufacturers' software
• Network patch cable
• Spare network wall socket or spare switch/hub socket
  

Lets look at some Windows Networking Terminology

Client - This is a piece of software that allows your machine to communicate with servers on the network. This software can be manufactured by different companies depending on the type of network access on the network you're trying to connect. We'll only be looking at Microsoft and Novell for the A+.

Adapter - This is a Windows term to describe the network driver, essentially the software that Windows uses to communicate with the hardware (NIC).

Protocol - This is the network protocol used to communicate with other network devices. You need to speak the same protocol (language) as the other devices on your network. Examples of network protocols are TCP/IP, NWLink, NetBEUI.

Service - This is how you assign network services that your machine will provide to other devices on the network. Examples of services include printer sharing and file sharing.

Once you've installed your NIC card hardware and software you'll need to configure Windows as a Network Client. To do this you'll need to go to the Control Panel and look for Network, Network Connections or Network and Dial-up Connections depending on the version of Windows you're configuring.

In addition to configuring the Client, Adaptor and Protocol, Windows NT/2000 and XP require that you join either a Workgroup or Domain. Your network administrator should be able to tell you what type of network you are trying to connect to.

Here's a tutorial on installing a Windows Client.