Introduction to Networking

What is a Network? Discuss in groups

What is a Network? A network is two or more computers, or other electronic devices, connected together so that they can exchange data.

Why Use Networks? Discuss in groups

Why Use Networks? Easily share files and data Share resources such as printers and Internet connections Communicate with other network users ( , instant messaging, video-conferencing, etc.) Store data centrally (using a file server) for ease of access and back-up Keep all of our settings centrally so we can use any workstation so you can easily manage computers

Why Not Use Networks? Discuss in groups

Why Not Use Networks? The computer is vulnerable to hackers If the network breaks, many tasks become very difficult Your computer can more easily be attacked by a virus

Computers in a Network Clients Servers

They provide ‘services’ to the clients. –Providing a central, common file storage area –Sharing printers –Access the network –Sharing Internet connections

Types of Network Local Area Network (LAN) Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) Wide Area Network (WAN) Bluetooth (Personal Area Network)

Local Area Network (LAN)

Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)

Wide Area Network (WAN)

Networking Hardware What type of hardware is used for networking?

Networking Hardware Hub Switch Router

Hub A hub is a device that connects a number of computers together to make a LAN. The typical use of a hub is at the centre of a network

Switch A switch, like a hub. More ‘intelligent’ device than a hub: –if it receives a message, it checks who it is addressed to, and only sends it to that specific computer. More secure than hubs More expensive.

Router A router is a network device that connects together two or more networks. A common use of a router is to join a home or business network (LAN) to the Internet (WAN).