Networking All-in-One For Dummies, 5th Edition

Chapter 2: Installing Network Hardware

In This Chapter

Installing network interface cards

Installing network cable

Attaching cable connectors

Figuring out pinouts for twisted-pair cabling

Building a crossover cable

Installing switches

After you plan your network, then comes the fun of actually putting everything together. In this chapter, I describe some of the important details for installing network hardware, including cables, switches, network interface cards, and professional touches, such as patch panels.

Installing a Network Interface Card

To connect a computer to your network, the computer must have a network interface. Virtually all computers sold in the last ten years or so have a network interface built-in on the motherboard. However, you may still encounter the occasional older computer that doesn’t have a built-in network interface. In that case, you must install a network ...