Wireless Computer-to-Computer Network
Otherwise known as "ad hoc" networks, computer-to-computer networks have become more common with the spread of wireless cards. These networks form by making direct connections among the computers within them. The computers then share data and resources over the connections. Network management software works to make the connections among nodes as efficient as possible.
-
About
-
In a computer-to-computer network, each computer participating in the network takes on some duties of a router, shuttling data through the network using an independently operating protocol. Each computer must be equipped with a transmitter and a receiver, which are more common in modern wireless cards than in the past.
Advantages
-
Computer-to-computer connections do not require existing infrastructure, such as a router, to facilitate the transfer of data. This makes them ideal for spontaneous data transfers among individual computers. They also can be set up quickly if a more traditional network's central access point fails.
Disadvantages
-
The resources, connection speeds and reliability of an ad-hoc network depend on the computers that make it up. Because there is no router managing data, sometimes the connection may be lost. There are also infrastructural disadvantages. The larger the network is, the more difficult it is to make new connections in which all computers can talk to all other computers and the more likely it becomes that data collisions will occur. Finally, if a computer that is sharing its Internet connection drops out of the network or is turned off, all other machines lose Internet connectivity as well.
Configuration
-
If you are using Windows computers, you can set up a computer-to-computer connection as long as both computers are equipped with a wireless card. You can get to the connection settings from the control panel or Start menu. Then choose the option for setting a new ad-hoc or computer-to-computer connection and follow the steps. You may need to own an account on the other computer if that computer is part of a domain.
Uses
-
Because of the infrastructural limitations of computer-to-computer networks, they are usually small, connecting between 2 and 10 computers. They are often used in local area network parties and other spontaneous gatherings. They can also be useful when a network must be rapidly deployed in a dangerous area, such as during a natural disaster.
-
Related Searches
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
