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Ethernet and Wireless Home Networking from Broadband Providers

What is Home Networking?

Home networking refers to technology that allows multiple computers to communicate with each other in a home environment. The most common application of home networking is sharing one broadband Internet connection among several computers, through Ethernet cable or wirelessly. Having Internet access on multiple computers has become mandatory for modern families and households. Children usually require Internet access for homework assignments, and adults often need to access their work e-mail or other online information at home. Setting up a home network is a cheaper alternative to buying individual connections for each computer, and allows the entire household to be online at once.

Your Ethernet and Wireless Networking Options

The most common type of network is a wired local area network, also called a LAN or an Ethernet network. A LAN requires Ethernet cables and additional networking equipment, such as a router or hub, to transmit information between computers. Wired home networks require many messy wires to run through the home and often necessitate the purchase of expensive equipment. Luckily, your broadband provider may be able to send professional networking installation experts to your home to set up your LAN, hiding those annoying wires or tucking them out of harm’s way.

The second type of networking is a wireless local area network, also known as a WLAN or wi-fi network. Wireless networking eliminates messy cables entirely in favor of converting data into radio waves and transmitting it wirelessly through the air. Wi-fi networking is simple to use but somewhat more to complex to set up than an Ethernet network, so if you are not experienced with networking, it may be worthwhile to have your broadband provider set the network up for you.

Ethernet and Wireless Home Networking from Broadband Providers

Setting up any type of network for your broadband Internet connection can be somewhat complex. Some broadband providers do not support networking at all, making the situation even more confusing, and may require you to purchase an Internet connection for each computer. To avoid getting caught in this more expensive option, it is worthwhile to do some research into whether a broadband provider will support or sometimes even set up a network for you if you are planning on sharing your broadband Internet connection among multiple computers.

The following providers offer home networking services:

  • Cox Broadband Provider: Cox Communications provides networking solutions for up to four computers. A trained, experienced technician will come right to your home and set up a wireless (wi-fi) network with world-class Linksys gear. Learn more about Cox Communications Wireless Networking.
  • Comcast Broadband Provider: Comcast allows you to connect up to five computers through one high speed broadband Internet connection. Learn more about networking and other fun features from Comcast Broadband Provider.
  • Time Warner Road Runner Cable Broadband Provider: Time Warner is committed to providing its customers with quality networking options. Time Warner will connect all the computers in your home with either a wired (in some areas) or wireless network to a single broadband connection. Learn more about the extensive benefits and features of a Time Warner Home Network.