What is the component that allows a device to connect to the outside world?

Network technologies allow two or more computers to connect with each other. The most common of these technologies include Local Area Network (LAN), Wireless Area Network (WAN), the Internet via client servers and Bluetooth. Each of these computer network types serves a different purpose and you may find a need to use each one.

Local Area Network

1. A Local Area Network (LAN) connects two or more computers together via Ethernet cables. For office networking, this is one of the most common network types, because of its reliability, stability and performance. This type allows computers to communicate directly with each other, as long as each computer on the network has been granted access to the computer with which it is trying to connect. A LAN can also take the external Internet connection and distribute it to all computers on the network, making it possible to pull up outside websites.

Wireless Area Network

1. A Wireless Area Network (WAN) has the same function of connecting computers on a home or office network as a LAN, but it distributes the signal wirelessly. A wireless connection allows compatible desktop computers, laptops, smart phones and tablet devices to connect with one another. A wireless connection is most commonly used in homes to connect with the Internet. Wi-Fi hotspots that you find at local shops also use a WAN to distribute the Internet to their patrons.

Internet

1. The Internet is the most commonly used network technology with billions of daily users throughout the world. An Internet provider services paying customers via client servers. The provider's servers are responsible for going out and finding the requested website and sending it through the cable lines back to the user. Websites are hosted on a client server, which then delivers the Web pages to your computer's browser.

Bluetooth

1. Bluetooth is a relatively newer technology, which usually wirelessly connects accessories to a device, such as a Bluetooth headset that allows you to talk hands-free on your mobile phone. You can also create a Personal Area Network (PAN) with Bluetooth technology, which allows you to connect up to eight computers. The central computer is known as the master and the seven auxiliary computers are known as slaves. A slave computer must call up to the master to get access to the Personal Area Network (PAN), or to receive access to any of the other slave computers.

   Once you've set up your computer, you may want to purchase home Internet access so you can send and receive email, browse the Web, stream videos, and more. You may even want to set up a home wireless network, commonly known as Wi-Fi, so you can connect multiple devices to the Internet at the same time.

   Watch the video below to learn about connecting to the Internet.

   Looking for the old version of this video? You can still view it here.

   Types of Internet service

   The type of Internet service you choose will largely depend on which Internet service providers (ISPs) serve your area, along with the types of service they offer. Here are some common types of Internet service.

   • Dial-up: This is generally the slowest type of Internet connection, and you should probably avoid it unless it is the only service available in your area. Dial-up Internet uses your phone line, so unless you have multiple phone lines you will not be able to use your landline and the Internet at the same time.
   • DSL: DSL service uses a broadband connection, which makes it much faster than dial-up. DSL connects to the Internet via a phone line but does not require you to have a landline at home. And unlike dial-up, you'll be able to use the Internet and your phone line at the same time.
   • Cable: Cable service connects to the Internet via cable TV, although you do not necessarily need to have cable TV in order to get it. It uses a broadband connection and can be faster than both dial-up and DSL service; however, it is only available where cable TV is available.
   • Satellite: A satellite connection uses broadband but does not require cable or phone lines; it connects to the Internet through satellites orbiting the Earth. As a result, it can be used almost anywhere in the world, but the connection may be affected by weather patterns. Satellite connections are also usually slower than DSL or cable.
   • 3G and 4G: 3G and 4G service is most commonly used with mobile phones, and it connects wirelessly through your ISP's network. However, these types of connections aren't always as fast as DSL or cable. They will also limit the amount of data you can use each month, which isn't the case with most broadband plans.

   Choosing an Internet service provider

   Now that you know about the different types of Internet service, you can do some research to find out what ISPs are available in your area. If you're having trouble getting started, we recommend talking to friends, family members, and neighbors about the ISPs they use. This will usually give you a good idea of the types of Internet service available in your area.

   Most ISPs offer several tiers of service with different Internet speeds, usually measured in Mbps (short for megabits per second). If you mainly want to use the Internet for email and social networking, a slower connection (around 2 to 5 Mbps) might be all you need. However, if you want to download music or stream videos, you'll want a faster connection (at least 5 Mbps or higher).

   You'll also want to consider the cost of the service, including installation charges and monthly fees. Generally speaking, the faster the connection, the more expensive it will be per month.

   Although dial-up has traditionally been the least expensive option, many ISPs have raised dial-up prices to be the same as broadband. This is intended to encourage people to switch to broadband. We do not recommend dial-up Internet unless it's your only option.

   Hardware needed

   Modem

   

   Once you have your computer, you really don't need much additional hardware to connect to the Internet. The primary piece of hardware you need is a modem.

   The type of Internet access you choose will determine the type of modem you need. Dial-up access uses a telephone modem, DSL service uses a DSL modem, cable access uses a cable modem, and satellite service uses a satellite adapter. Your ISP may give you a modem—often for a fee—when you sign a contract, which helps ensure that you have the right type of modem. However, if you would prefer to shop for a better or less expensive modem, you can choose to buy one separately.

   Router

   

   A router is a hardware device that allows you to connect several computers and other devices to a single Internet connection, which is known as a home network. Many routers are wireless, which allows you to create a home wireless network, commonly known as a Wi-Fi network.

   You don't necessarily need to buy a router to connect to the Internet. It's possible to connect your computer directly to your modem using an Ethernet cable. Also, many modems include a built-in router, so you have the option of creating a Wi-Fi network without buying extra hardware.

   Setting up your Internet connection

   

   Once you've chosen an ISP, most providers will send a technician to your house to turn on the connection. If not, you should be able to use the instructions provided by your ISP—or included with the modem—to set up your Internet connection.

   After you have everything set up, you can open your web browser and begin using the Internet. If you have any problems with your Internet connection, you can call your ISP's technical support number.

   Home networking

   

   If you have multiple computers at home and want to use all of them to access the Internet, you may want to create a home network, also known as a Wi-Fi network. In a home network, all of your devices connect to your router, which is connected to the modem. This means everyone in your family can use the Internet at the same time.

   Your ISP technician may be able to set up a home Wi-Fi network when installing your Internet service. If not, you can review our lesson on How to Set Up a Wi-Fi Network to learn more.
   

   If you want to connect a computer that does not have built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, you can purchase a Wi-Fi adapter that plugs into your computer's USB port.

   What connects the computer to the outside world?

   A peripheral device is generally defined as any auxiliary device such as a computer mouse or keyboard, that connects to and works with the computer in some way. Other examples of peripherals are expansion cards, graphics cards, image scanners, tape drives, microphones, loudspeakers, webcams, and digital cameras.

   What device allows your network to communicate with devices on other networks?

   A router is a networking device that facilitates communication between computer networks. In simple terms, a router makes it possible for the devices such as laptops, smartphones, etc. on your local network to communicate with other networks such as the internet.

   What is the name of the component to which everything is connected?

   The motherboard is an important computer component because it's what everything else connects to! The motherboard is a decently sized circuit board that lets other components communicate.

   What is used to connect external devices to the system unit?

   Universal Serial Bus (or USB) Port It can connect all kinds of external USB devices such as external hard disk, printer, scanner, mouse, keyboard, etc. It was introduced in 1997.