How does online multiplayer gaming work?

[cyberfriend]

I have been searching the net for any descriptions about the nuts and bolts of online gaming. I have found no answers. I'm interested in learning how PC, PS3 or whatever system uses IP, ports, servers (network components) to connect players together to play each other online. I would love to learn how this works. In addition, also how the VOIP works with it too. (fyi I play FPSs and sports games)

[TippeX]

then i don't think you looked too hard, there's plenty of examples..
put simply...
client machine opens port
client machines connects to server machine on a specific port (ports can vary but are typically between 1000 and 65535), the protocol used is typically tcp (or udp if the data isn't 'critical'), the data sent is usually proprietary and is different for each game (so it requires reversing.. use ethereal or something similar)...

i also removed your advertisements from your signature