Attached to the router are all of your computers or
Ethernet-ready devices. Also connected to the router
is a cable or DSL modem that provides access to the
Internet.
Cable/DSL
modem
Router
Equipment you need for a router-based
Ethernet network
standard Ethernet (10 Mbps), Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps or 10/100),
or Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps or 10/100/1000). A mixture of
components rated at different speeds will result in your network
running at the speed of the slowest rated component
For a wired Ethernet network you need:
•
•
•
•
14
Chapter 2: Setting Up and Getting Started
Important
For best results, all Ethernet components should be either
Two or more computers with Ethernet jacks
One router
One broadband Internet connection (optional)
Ethernet cables connecting all of the network
equipment
.