Computer Networks All you need to know

What is a computer network? Two or more computers connected together so that they can communicate with each other.

LANs and WANs LAN means Local Area Network –It is a network in one building or site –Our college network is a LAN WAN means Wide Area Network –It is a network between buildings or sites –The Internet is a WAN

How do you make a LAN? First you need several computers Put a network card in each one

How to make a LAN -Step 2 Join a network cable to each network card Nice work!

Switch or Hub How to make a LAN -Step 3 Plug the network cables into a Switch or Hub Well done – you have a basic Local Area Network!

How to Improve Your LAN Add a File Server to store all users’ files in one place Add a Network Printer so everyone can share one printer Switch or Hub This is basically how our school network works File Server Groovy!

How do you connect a computer to the Internet? Connect a Modem to your computer Then connect your Modem to the telephone line Modem The Modem converts the computer signal into a type that can travel over a telephone line Nice Job!

How do you connect a LAN to the Internet? Add a Router and Modem to your network Switch or Hub Router Modem The Router directs each web page to the computer that requested it. Good Work!

Key Points 1 LAN – Local Area Network –Within one building or site WAN – Wide Area Network –Between buildings or sites

Key Points 2 Network Card –Must put one in a computer if you want to connect to a network Switch/Hub –Joins together all computers and printers on the network File Server –Powerful computer that stores everyone's files/folders

Key Points 3 Modem –Must have one if you want to connect to the Internet Router –Connects a LAN to the Internet Modem Router