Types of networking maintenance tasks

After you decide how your machine fits into the network, you need to install and configure the appropriate protocol packages as described in ``Configuring network connections''. You also need to update the networking files on other machines so that they know of the new machine's existence. This configuration ensures, among other things, that:

• all machines on the network know each other's names and addresses.

• individual users will have access to files and accounts on various machines.

• electronic mail is routed correctly.

• the network runs at peak efficiency.

• installing and maintaining networking hardware and software.

• assigning names and addresses to each computer and device on the network.

• assigning names and identification numbers (IDs) to network users and groups.

• performing the commands required to share, remove, and restrict resources.

• updating all appropriate networking files on your network's machines.

• troubleshooting network activity.

• performance tuning (see ``About this book'').