What is Networking?

At its core, a computer network is a group of interconnected devices that can communicate with each other. This includes everything from your smartphone and laptop to your smart TV and gaming console. A network allows these devices to share resources and access the internet. A router is the “traffic controller” of your network, directing data to the right place, while Wi-Fi provides the wireless connection.  To ensure all of your devices have the best performance you need to have a robust network.

Essential Components of a Robust Network

To create a robust home network, you need several key components working together to provide reliable and fast internet access throughout your home. The core of any good setup includes a modem, a router, and an optional but highly recommended network switch. Other components like Wi-Fi extenders or mesh systems can also be used to improve wireless coverage.

Core Network Hardware

• Modem: This is the gateway to the internet. The modem connects your home network to your Internet Service Provider (ISP). It translates the signals from your ISP (e.g., cable, DSL, fiber) into an Ethernet signal that your router can use.  This is typically provided by your ISP, but most provides do allow you to provide your own.
• Router: The router acts as the traffic cop of your network. It connects to the modem and directs data packets between your devices and the internet. A router also assigns a unique IP address to each device on your network, allowing them to communicate with each other. Most modern routers include built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing both wired and wireless devices to connect.
• Network Switch: For homes with many wired devices (like smart TVs, gaming consoles, or desktop computers), a network switch is essential. A switch expands the number of available wired connections beyond what your router provides. It’s much more efficient than using a series of hubs, as it only sends data to the specific device that needs it, reducing network congestion.
• An Access Point (AP) is a networking device that creates a wireless local area network (WLAN). Unlike a router, which manages traffic and assigns IP addresses, an access point’s primary function is to simply extend an existing wired network to include wireless devices.

  An access point connects to your router or network switch via an Ethernet cable and broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal. This allows devices like smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs to connect to the network wirelessly, even if they’re far from the main router. They are particularly useful for large homes, multi-story buildings, or offices where a single router’s signal can’t provide sufficient coverage.

Expanding Wireless Coverage

• Wi-Fi Extenders (Repeaters): These devices capture an existing Wi-Fi signal and rebroadcast it. While they can extend coverage, they often do so at the cost of speed and can create a new network name, which can be inconvenient.
• Mesh Wi-Fi Systems: A more modern and effective solution for larger homes. A mesh system consists of a main router and several satellite nodes placed strategically around the house. They all operate under a single network name, providing seamless coverage as you move from one part of your home to another. They also intelligently route traffic to ensure the best possible connection for each device.

Ubiquiti UniFi: Power & Control

Eero: Simplicity & Coverage