Setting up a small network for sharing files and peripherals under Windows 95 should be a relatively easy undertaking, especially since many of the network interface cards available today are Plug and Play-compatible. Even a novice should be able to connect two or three PCs together under this system. Your favourite computer store should be able to provide you with all the information you need to set up a small office network. As your network traffic grows, other components may be needed to facilitate a smooth flow of traffic between the various PCs. Traditionally, hubs have been used to provide connections in multiple-machine networks.
Hubs provide a central connection point for all the computers on the network.
They come in either 10 or 100 Mbps versions and share this bandwidth between all of the computers connected to the hub. Only one computer can be sending or receiving data at any one time a mode of operation referred to as 'half duplex'. So, when two computers are communicating, the others must wait. A collision occurs. Although not fatal, collisions do cause delays.