Lesson Objectives By the end of the lesson you will be able to: Define the terms Local Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN) Identify their main characteristics Describe the 3 main topologies
What is a network? Internet Connection Student Software Information A network is a way of connecting two or more computers together so that they can communicate or share data with each other. What could be shared on a school network? Internet Connection Student Information Software Printer Complete part 1 of your worksheet.
Advantages and Disadvantages There are both advantages and disadvantages of using computer networks. Using page 34 of the textbook complete part 2 of your worksheet.
Types of Networks There are two types of networks: LAN and WAN LAN – Local Area Network WAN – Wide Area Network Using page 34 of the textbook complete part 3 of your worksheet.
Network Topologies… Networks can be arranged in different ways. Each way is called a topology. The main topologies you need to be aware of are: Bus Star Tree
Bus Topology All devices connected to the network are connected to a common shared cable called the backbone/central line. Signals are passed in either direction along the backbone.
Star Topology The star topology uses a central connection point for all devices on the network. The central connection point can be a hub or switch.
Complete parts 4 and 5 of your worksheet. Your Turn… Complete parts 4 and 5 of your worksheet.
Plenary – Hands Up! What does LAN stand for? What does WAN stand for? What’s the main difference between a LAN and WAN? What is a topology? Which topology uses a common shared cable? How does the star topology work? What is the tree topology? What does WLAN stand for?
Exam Questions A large company has a LAN. The manager of the company wants to replace it with a WLAN. Explain the differences between a LAN and WLAN, giving an advantage and a disadvantage of WLAN. Give two reasons why a WLAN would be preferable to a cabled LAN?