Chapter 7

Connecting Computers to a Network

Although the process of connecting a computer to a network is often as simple as plugging it in, there is a lot to consider. Many problems can interfere with the transmission of data. Some transmission media (such as fiber-optic cable) is immune to many of the problems, but it also adds significant costs to a network.

In this chapter, you’ll learn about many of the potential problems with transmission media. In addition, you’ll learn about many of the common transmission methods and how they can be affected by these problems.

• Identifying potential problems with connectivity
• Exploring cable types and their characteristics