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HOME NETWORKING PRIMER WD005-1-2
12/22/2003
6325 Digital Way Indianapolis, IN 46278 317.616.6789 phone 317.616.6790 fax www.escient.com
Alternative Networking Technologies
Alternative networking technologies are often used to supplement a primary network. They are
not as popular as the aforementioned networks, but are still available. The can be 'bridged' to
other networks to create a single integrated network. You can buy different network adapters
to ‘bridge’ or connect one type of network to another.
Ethernet: Gigabit - 1000TX
The fastest network technology available to the home or small business, gigabit ethernet
comes built in to most Mac systems now. As the name suggests, gigabit ethernet runs at
1000Mbps
Wireless 802.11a: 54 Mbps
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, but is not as popular as 802.11g
Firewire Networking - 400Mbps
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 also available on new Mac systems.
Bluetooth
A new ‘personal’ 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 for
connecting peripherals.
Wireless HomeRF 2.0: 10Mbps
Developed to compete with 802.11b, HomeRF made a brief appearance and died off. Siemens
and Proxim were the main supporters.