Protocol (The 'language being used between stations).
TCP/IP is commonly used these days since it is the protocol used on the Internet and is cross-platform.
NetBeui is a standard protocol used in small LANs.
Other protocols depend upon the type of computers and operating systems in use. (eg. IPX for Netware)
To communicate, each participating computer needs some type of Network Interface Card (NIC) or a Modem (for dial-up connection over a phone line) installed.
Also necessary is the necessary software to participate in the network. In Windows, 'Client for Microsoft Networks' or 'Client for Netware Networks' are used.
Server - Usually each workstation will 'log in' to a main station which will authorise it to link to the network. This is called the 'Server', which offers access to other computers called 'Clients'. This environment requires Windows NT/2000 Server or other OS Server (Linux/ Netware)
It is possible to have a network where all PCs are 'equal' in status ('Peer to Peer'), but each needs setting up to 'Share' its resources such as printers and files. This can be done with normal Windows 95 computers.
This authorisation really needs to be set up by a system administrator. Peer computers can elect to 'share' certain folders
Avoid making any changes to your workstation's system settings. It is always tempting to change display colours and screensavers, but leave it at that. Once set up on a Network properly, workstations should be reliable.
Extra Networking Tips:
Always log-off the Workstations before rebooting a Server. (Basically this means that noone is using files when the connection is broken).
Reboot a workstation and log-on again if necessary - it clears system memory hangs.
Create shortcuts to files and folders on your remote drive by dragging them with your right button to your desktop. This saves always having to go looking for them.
For often used remote network folders you can 'Map' them to a spare drive letter so that they are available in your first level file system (My Computer). Right-Click 'My Computer' on the desktop, choose a spare drive letter (not A:\, C:\ or D:\ since they usually are already in use) and enter the path name to the folder you wish to map.
Use Start-Find-Computer to search for a specific computer name on the network.
Network Neighbourhood is a folder on the desktop which will appear if networking protocols are installed. Clicking on it should display all available computers in your workgroup. Clicking on 'Entire Network' should display other workgroups available. Doesn't always work with some NICs