Windows 7 Clarifying Home Network Terminology and Configuration for Windows 7 Users

[steveeyes]

I use windows 7. My desktop computer (dell) is connected to a router that is connected directly to my cox modem. There is also 2 other computers connected to the router. Our mobile devices (ipad, phone) connection is wireless.

Now for the terminology. The term I see a lot is "Home Network". I mention above how my connections are configured -- is it correct to call my connection configuration my "Home Network"

If not, what is it called?

I ask because I want to understand it better but unless I know what keywords to use when searching, it is hard to find tutors I need online?

I did did do a search using the term " Windows 7 Home Network" and the results mostly were "How to setup Homegroup Network". I don't think that is what I want. I'm interested in understanding the concept and process of my configuration as explained above .. I'm NOT interested at this time in understanding and creating a Homegroup.

Any help in my quest in layman's terms would be appreciated or if you know of a good tutor please let me know.

Thanks

 

[ussnorway]

is it correct to call my connection configuration my "Home Network"

yes

home network = network used at home i.e, you trust the people using it and don't need as much serurity in the wifi or router.

workgroup = these computers are allowed to talk to each other and share some basic stuff i.e, any thing put into THIS {insert} folder will be shared on the workgroup computers but other stuff outside that folder is off limits.

Homegroup = as workgroup but with the extra level of a microsoft id so user 1 purchases a movie or music from some e-shop and user 2 can view that file without paying for it again.

For home use I recommend a workgroup senario with or without a homegroup but once you have more than 10 devices (computers, phones, ipad etc) then a workgroup will become laggy and a domain server senario is better.