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Networking can be described as simple as two computers talking, up to something as complex as the whole Internet. Since we're just talking basics, I'll just be attempting to make you familiar with some home networking terms.
Network Interface Card - Also known as a NIC. This card is what enables computers to talk. It has one or more RJ45 ports on it (big phone jack) and you connect an Ethernet cable to it. Newer motherboards typically have one or two of these built in. They come in speeds of 10/100 or 10/100/1000. It's rated in bits, not bytes.
IP Address - I'm sure you have heard of it, but do you know what it is? An IP address is an unique number that computers and other devices use to communicate. The mere fact you're reading this page means you're using an IP address right now. When you type in something like http://www.pwrecover.com it's translated into an IP address behind the scenes. That process is handled by DNS (Domain Name System) Servers. It may be important to see your IP address at times. You can do that by (both at command prompt):
- Windows - ipconfig /all
- Linux/Unix - ifconifg -a
Network Address Translation - Also known as NAT. This is how you get as many computers as you want behind 1 live IP Address. There are reserved IP Address ranges for private use and with NAT you can use those private ranges to get internet access with a router type device such as IPCop. Chances are if you're using a broadband router at home, you're behind a NAT device and the same goes for your place of business if you use a computer.
Hopefully this is enough to get though the install of IPCop. If there is something you think should be included on this page, please let me know!
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