Classification of Networks

Networks are commonly classified using three properties that are: Protocol, Topology and Architecture. The Topology indicates the geometric arrangement of the network. General topologies are ring, bus, and star. Protocol indicates a general set of rules and signals that the computers on the network use to communicate. Many networks use Ethernet, but some networks might use IBM's Token Ring protocol. The Architecture refers to one of the two main categories of network architecture: client/server or Peer-to-Peer. Within a Peer-to-Peer networking configuration, computers easily connect with every other in a workgroup to share printers, files, and Internet access.

This is most generally found in home configurations and is just practical for workgroups of a dozen or less computers. Within a client/server network, an NT Domain Controller is commonly present to that all the computers log on to. That server can give several services, involving centrally routed Internet access, mail (involving e-mail), file sharing and printer access, as well as ensuring security across the network. That is most generally found in corporate configurations, whereas network security is essential.