Networking 101

Mobile internet is what gives most of us the ability to stay connected, but that requires a different, more technical type of network, one that is often not as simple as it should be, especially for those without a technical background.

To get the most out of mobile internet requires some basic knowledge of how digital networks work since the technology is far from flawless and is often not user-friendly.

In this guide, we aim to provide you a primer on networks from a mobile internet perspective - what they are and how they work - along with useful and simple definitions for all the arcane network terminology.

What is a Network?

Digital networking really isn't all that different in concept from old-school human networks - ultimately networking is about making connections.  "Network" is defined as a group or system of interconnected people or things.

So one way to think about computer networks is to imagine them as similar to networks of people.  We have people we need to connect to, for a variety of reasons, using a variety of methods.  We are closely connected to some people while our connections to many others are distant and tenuous. The same basic principle holds for computer networks.

This guide will focus on digital networking for mobile internet.  We'll cover the basic concepts and then give some examples of common network configurations and uses that take advantage of mobile internet for nomads, RVers and cruisers.

Additional Member Only Content:

The additional content found in the member section of this guide includes:

Network Components

Before we get started, let's go over some of the common parts that make up a network - such as clients, nodes, servers and more.

Types of Networks

This section goes over the differences between a LAN, WAN, VPN and just what is 'the internet'?

Basic Networking Configurations for Mobile Users

We share some common simple setups that RVers and cruisers use for getting online - from simply using public Wi-Fi sources to hot spotting off of cellular devices.

Advanced Mobile LAN Examples

For those wanting to replicate a home LAN, this section goes over some ways to create a more advanced network in a mobile environment.

Networking Protocols, Standards and Terminology

Networking comes with a host of new terms that look like alphabet soup. This section is a glossary of these terms explained.

Summary

Computer networks can be quite complex in practice, but the concepts are relatively straightforward.  Knowledge of networking can really help make your mobile internet experience better.  For those who rely on mobile internet or who have many devices, a network can actually make life simpler by corraling and managing all your devices.

Explore the Resource Center

Become a Member

The MIA is our premium membership - designed for those who consider mobile internet an important part of their lifestyle.

In thanks for making content like this possible, we offer a bunch of additional perks. From interactive guidance, in-depth member exclusive content, discounts, alerts and more.

Learn More About Membership

Say Thanks

We totally understand that a membership isn't right for everyone. However you can still support this content by making a financial contribution.

We deeply appreciate your gratitude - and your funding helps make this all possible!

Featured Guides

Have Questions? Stay In the Know

Join our free Internet for RVers & Cruisers Facebook Group.

We cross post news articles and information there, and our staff can field basic questions during 'business hours'.

It is with gratitude to our premium members that we're able to offer this free service - and for that, they also have access our private Q&A areas for more in-depth guidance.

Stay in the Know

We're constantly tracking the industry and analyzing new developments for mobile travelers. If you'd like to receive updates, we offer several ways:

• Subscribe to our free monthly newsletter for a recap
• Like/Follow our Facebook Newsfeed Page
• Follow our News Stories
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel