The Computer Network

What is a Computer Network? A collection of 2 or more computers and devices Networks may be classified according to a wide variety of characteristics. A computer network allows sharing of resources and information among interconnected devices. A computer network, often referred to as a network, is a collection of computers and devices interconnect by communications channels that facilitate communications among users and allows users to share resources. Networks may be classified according to a wide variety of characteristics. A computer network allows sharing of resources and information among interconnected devices. http://us.fotolia.com/id/1649279

Why is a Network used? A computer network can be used for a wide range of purposes: Communications. Sharing hardware. Security. Facilitating communications. Using a network, people can communicate efficiently and easily via email, instant messaging etc. Sharing hardware. In a networked environment, each computer on a network may access and use hardware resources on the network, such as printing a document on a shared network printer. Security. Can send secured files across the network . Should also be noted that hackers and crackers are able to intercept. Anti-virus programs such as Norton, and AVG are a few examples.

Why is a Network used? Cont... Sharing files, data, and information. Information preservation. Sharing software. Sharing files, data, and information. Users are able to access data and info stored on other computers on the network, provided they have the right access codes. Many home users and businesses use the ability of sharing data to maximize efficiency in the transfer of information. Information preservation. Networks allow for information off a computer to be stored in another location like a back-up in case of any unfortunate events such as natural disasters or computer crashes. Sharing software. Another example of why networks are used are to share software with computers in another country or continent.

What 3 types of cables are used in a computer network? Twisted Pair Coaxial Cable Optical Fiber

What is a Network Interface Card? A piece of hardware used designed to allow computers to communicate or connect over a computer network.

What is a LAN? A LAN is a local area network. How does it work? It connects computers and devices in a limited geographical area Resources can be accessed and shared by all computers in the network The computer that manages this is called a server. How does it work? -It allows certain computers on a network to allow other computers on the network to use resources -Workstations can attach to servers and use these resources Areas such as: home, school, computer lab, office building, or closely positioned group of buildings. And devices such as printers and modems Good for file sharing, printer sharing, project collaboration. to use their resources (modems, printers) as if they were their own. -A workstation can be a server, there can be multiple servers, or no servers (peer-to-peer) Servers can run server software so that different devices can work together on the same program/project. Everything is connected to a hub, or via switches or wireless.

What is the difference between a PAN a WAN and a LAN? PAN – personal area network Covers up to 10 meters of space Used for communication of devices close to one person. Ex: PDAS to netbooks Wired networks use USB and fire wire, wireless uses blue tooth WAN – wide area network Uses telecommunication lines Covers large geographical areas (ex: countries) Can combine different connections such as cables and air waves Uses transmission facilities provided by carriers such as phone companies LAN – local area network Similar to PAN but can be used in office buildings/homes Covers up to half a mile Wired networks use Ethernet technology, wireless uses Wi-Fi -A PAN; is a personal area network it’s a computer network used for communication among computers and different information technological devices close to one person. Example: PDAs May include wired or wireless devices. Wired PANs can be constructed with USB and firewire connections while wireless PANS are connected through bluetooth and infrared -LANS in contrast to WANS include higher data transfer rates, smaller geographical ranger, and no need for leased telecommunication lines.