Networks

Networks consist of computers and other hardware devices that are connected to each other. They communicate via a network protocol, an agreed format for data transmission and reception known to both the server (the machine sending the data) and the client (the machine receiving the data). Network protocols are often layered, with each layer adding new functionality. For example, TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) can enable machines to access the public internet, where HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) can be used to send or receive web pages and FTP (File Transfer Protocol) can be used to exchange files.

Though it is rarely necessary for a developer outside the 'comms' field to have a detailed knowledge of networking, it doesn't hurt to know something of the subject in a software industry that anticipates that most of its future business will involve developing for a connected environment.

Related links on the internet

World of Windows Networking

Simply the best guide that we've seen to getting PCs running the same, or different versions of DOS and/or Windows to talk to each other through a variety of network protocols and cable connections. There are lots of step-by-step examples, adorned with helpful screenshots. Covers all Microsoft operating systems from MS-DOS to Windows XP.

smb.conf

The smb.conf reference from samba.org. If you're into networking Windows and Linux machines, then you may someday find yourself troubleshooting Samba on a Linux distribution. There are a few graphical tools for this, but ultimately it can come down to a contest between you and the smb.conf file. This reference can help you triumph.

SMB HOWTO

The Server Message Block (SMB) protocol 'how to' pages from tdlp.org. If you've ever fancied having a Linux machine on your Windows LAN, but you're a relative beginner with Linux, then this is a fairly straightforward guide to getting file and printer sharing up and running with Samba.

Apache Software Foundation

Home of the Apache HTTP server, the most popular web server on the internet. Unless all the employers and ISPs you ever encounter are locked into the ways of Microsoft, there's a pretty good chance that you'll encounter Apache at some point, so download a free copy here. Apache can do some pretty cool things (e.g. Virtual Hosts) that aren't supported by IIS, but typically Apache is configured via a .conf file whose syntax can be a bit daunting to those of us who've lost touch with our inner Network Administrator.

Virtual Network Computing

Free software from ATT that enables the user of a remote computer to view and interact with the graphical desktop of another computer.

MSDN Online

Microsoft's repository of development knowledge. A vast library coupled with a large downloads section featuring many free products.