Networking Tools
 Although
there are many types of tools used to setup, configure and maintain
a network infrastructure, they belong in two broad categories.
Hardware Network Tools
When creating a cable infrastructure for a network
there are several tools required to complete the task.
Although obvious, a cable-cutter, set of screwdrivers
and a knife builds up the basic toolkit used for networks. Measuring
cable, cutting the lengths and laying them under floors and through
ducting will take a considerable amount of time to set up.
Once the cables are laid they need to be terminated
correctly to suit the equipment they will be connected to. For this
task a "scrimper", "crimper" or "scruncher"
is required.
Place the required connector on the end of the
cable that has been laid, ensuring that the correct pairs are lined
up to the correct pins on the plug or socket. These are identifiable
by both wire colour, and colour of stripe that travels around a
wire. For example blue/white refers to a blue cable with white stripes
around it.
Once the cables are correctly aligned apply the
crimper tool and compress. This will gently bend plastic and metal,
sealing the connection between cables and pins, as well as securing
the outer sheath of the cable for added strength.
If you prefer to avoid such maintenance tasks
you can ask your cable supplier to cut and terminate the required
lengths of cable for you. This can save a considerable amount of
time and resource expense when setting up or rewiring a network.
Once the cabling and termination is done, you
may wish to consider using test equipment
and software network tools.
Software Network Tools
There are many software tools available to help
you set up, configure and maintain a network. You will find that
many of these tools come free with hardware and services you purchase
from your supplier.
Often software for network administrators revolves
around managing a medium-to-large network, mapping out the routers/switches,
ports available and the number of clients connected to each part
of the network. You can also manage connections to external networks
such as the Internet or inter-office Wide Area Networks (WANs).
Software is also available to help you remote
administrate client PCs, servers and routers across the network
to ensure a network manager has full control over the activities
of the network without having to move from his/her desk.
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