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Network Topology Guide
 Learn more about each network type (topology)
 Below is a list of popular networking types. Clicking on a type of network will bring you to a description of that network type and links to resources relating to that topology on Philex Technical.
Popular Networks:
The most popular network method because of the low price of the network cards, reliability and speed; but it can be a pain to run the wires through your .
802.11b is now the standard for wireless networking in both the and business. It has become inexpensive, has good speed but may not is not appropriate for secure communications.
A new standard for wireless ethernet, 802.11a is incompatible with 802.11b and g. It does however offer amazing speeds for a wireless network.
Alternative Technologies
Alternative networking technologies are often used to supplement a primary network. The can be 'bridged' to other networks to create a seamless infrastructure.
The fastest network technology available to the or small business, gigabit ethernet comes built in to most Mac systems now. As the name suggests, gigabit ethernet runs at 1000Mbps
An upgrade to 802.11b, the 802.11g standard doubles the speed of 802.11b while retaining compatibility.
Modern operating systems now support networking over firewire cables. Most appropriate for short distances, firewire is FAST and inexpensive to install. Great for transferring huge video files between computers! 800Mbps firewire is on it's way too!
A new wireless networking technology, bluetooth has recently made an appearance. It is easy to implement and will be VERY inexpensive soon. Because of its low speed (1.5Mbps) it is not appropriate as a replacement for other networks but IS valuable (as apple will soon prove).
The Chart
Chart Explanation - D is poor or inappropriate, A is best
Range: In terms of a network, will it cover the whole house? A D means short distances, an A means almost any would be covered without additional equipment.
Support: In terms of industry support for networking ranging from drivers for different OS's, the availability of bridges and routers, and the support the industry has for using this technology as a network solution.
Cost: An A is the least expensive. This is the relative cost not just for the network adapters, but the relative cost of hubs, access points, repeaters, or other things needed for a complete networking solution.
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