Networking 101
Key terms Local Area Network (LAN) - An interconnected group of computers and peripherals located within a limited area. Personal Area Network (PAN) - The interconnection of personal digital devices within a range of about 30 feet without the use of wires or cables. Wide Area Network (WAN) - An interconnected group of computers and peripherals that cover a large geographical area. Neighborhood Area Network (NAN) - A public high-speed network that can transmit voice and data within a limited geographical area. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) - A public high-speed network that can transmit voice and data within a range of 50 miles. Client Server Network - A network where processing is split between workstations (known as clients) and the server. Internet Protocol (IP) Address - Number that is assigned to each computer connected to the Internet.
Key Terms (continued) Peer-to-Peer Network (P2P) - The arrangement in which one workstation/server shares resources with another workstation/server and both act as a file server and workstation. Application Server - Processes application software for network workstations. File Server - Stores files and supplies the files to workstations on request of the user. Print Server - Dispenses jobs sent to a network printer. Latency - The elapsed time it takes for a packet of data to arrive at its destination.
Networking characteristics In 1976, Bob Metcalfe created a plan for transporting data between computers which was referred to as the Ethernet Networking characteristics In 1976, Bob Metcalfe created a plan for transporting data between computers which was referred to as the Ethernet Networks have since changed the way we share: Data Hardware devices Collaborate Classified according to their size, geographic scope, organizational structure, physical topology, communication channel, and bandwidth.
Networking categories Category Description Examples Geographical Structure Area in which network devices are located PAN, LAN, NAN, MAN, and WAN Organizational Structure Hierarchy of devices connected to a network Client-server, Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Communications Channel Technologies for cables and signals Cable, Radio Frequency Signals, Microwaves, Infrared Light, Laser Light Bandwidth Capacity of a network Broadband, Narrowband Physical Topology Layout and relationship between network devices Star, Ring, Bus, Mesh, Tree
advantages of using wired technology Connections are faster, more secure, and simple to configure Transfer data over cables which typically have a high bandwidth that are shielded against interference More secure than wireless connections because a computer can only join a network if it is physically connected by a cable When users set up a wired connection, they do not have to be concerned about hackers intercepting data
Network Troubleshooting & Securing Networks Make sure you are using the correct password. Check the signal strength. If the signal strength is weak, move the workstation closer to the router if you are able to do so. Make sure all network cables are connected. Make sure the network hub, switch, router, and/or wireless access point is plugged in and functioning properly. Check the activity lights to determine if data is being sent and received. Make sure the physical switch that turns wireless networking on or off is set to on. Make sure the network is enabled. Use the Control Panel option in Windows or System Preferences option in Mac to check the drivers for the network equipment. If intermittent network outages are occurring, look for sources of interference such as cordless phones, baby monitors, or microwave ovens.