Networking Structures Wired Ethernet
Advantages: 10/100 wired ethernet is inexpensive, easy to
set up, and faster than wireless. New gigabit (10/100/1000)
technology is superfast, though it's designed primarily for
business settings.Disadvantages: Requires running cables to
a central connection switch or router. More-expensive gigabit
adapters and switches require special, more-expensive cable.Costs:
10/100 add-in cards, $15-$20 per PC, or gigabit add-in cards,
$90-$110 per PC; 10/100 switch, $35-$75, or gigabit switch,
$100-$200;
Internet router/firewall, $50-$75.Wireless
(Wi-Fi)
Advantages: No wires to run through your walls or hallways;
use your laptop to surf the Web from your couch or patio.Disadvantages:
More expensive than wired. Must be set up carefully for maximum
security and range. Evolving standards can be confusing and
incompatible. Speed falls as distance increases.Costs: 802.11b
PC Card (10 mbps), $50-$90, or 802.11b/g PC Card (54 mbps),
$70-$100; add-in wireless PCI card, $90-$125 per PC, or USB
wireless adapter, $50-$90 per PC; single-speed wireless router,
$50-$100, or dual-speed wireless router, $225-$300.
Hybrid Network
Advantages: Offers the best mix of convenience and cost.Disadvantages:
Different technologies can make setup difficult.Costs: See
"Standard Wired Ethernet" and "Wireless (Wi-Fi)"
above.
Power-Line Network
Advantages: Simple to install; network runs on your electrical
wiring.Disadvantages: Slow (12 mbps); relatively expensive;
adapters from different companies won't necessarily work with
one another.
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