Networking Software

Until comparatively recently, networking software was only the concern of large organisations who wanted to effectively connect all of their work terminals to a central hub or to connect multiple machines to a single resource such as a printer. Now, more and more households have multiple computers so home-networks have become popular for sharing broadband connections wirelessly, or giving access to files, photos, music or printers. Most packages cover the broad headings of ‘connect’, ‘manage’, ‘share’ and ‘protect’. An example of a home-networking application is ‘Network Magic’ from Pure Networks (networkmagic.com). This package uses simple wizards to check Internet connectivity, and to repair the connection in the event of errors. It also makes it easy to add new devices to the home network. These two processes come under the heading ‘connect’. ‘Manage’ refers to the mapping and maintenance of the network, ensuring the network is running at optimal performance. In home-networking terms ‘share’ refers to the availability of files, images or music on another machine over the network. This saves the issue of having to email work to yourself or moving files on CD or other storage device. Additionally this solves the issue of data redundancy – having multiple (sometimes outdated) copies of the same file. Sharing also refers to allowing multiple devices to use the same printer or scanner, saving on the cost of purchasing multiple pieces of hardware.

The security aspects of networking software ‘protect’ the network from unauthorised access and infiltration. With wireless home networks for example, it is relatively easy for someone using a laptop or hand-held computer to access files on the network or to use the Internet connection. Securing and encrypting the network prevents unauthorised use. Some programs also have built-in security alerting systems, so that in the event of a possible breach of security, the home-user is notified. Although all of the major operating systems have inbuilt networking capabilities, they have been criticised as being too complicated for novice users to navigate. Off-the-shelf packages like ‘Network Magic’ have the advantage of being far more user-intuitive and shield many of the back-end alterations from the user.

Whenever a machine is connected to a network like the Internet it is vulnerable to receiving harmful or malicious materials like Trojans or viruses. It is therefore vital that every machine on the network is equipped with virus scanning software and an effective firewall (to prevent these files from getting onto the machine in the first place). Many software firewalls are effective at blocking all incoming data (meaning you are prompted for permission before downloads can take place or before programs can access the internet). Over time, the firewall software will develop a database listing programs that are allowed to access the Internet zone, and which are types of information are not allowed onto the network. Although some routers (the hardware that connects machines together or to the internet) have a built-in hardware firewall, it is still advisable to install software firewalls in addition. Developers such as McAfee and ZoneAlarm produce this type of software and also offer cut-down versions for free on their websites.