NETWORKS Year 12 Unit 1

Lesson objectives To understand and define What is a network? LANs and WANs The Internet, Intranet and Extranet Network Hardware and Software Networks and standalone computers

What is a network? A group of ICT devices which are able to communicate with each other. They may be able to communicate via a wired or wireless connection.

What is a LAN? A LAN or local area network is generally confined to a single building or site The organisation running a LAN owns all the equipment that links the terminals (Computers)

What is a WAN? A WAN or wide area network spans over a wide geographical area, including multiple buildings and sites Third party telecommunications equipment is used, i.e. Telephone, radio and satellite communications are needed which are supplied by third party companies such as BT.

What is an Intranet? An intranet is a private network that uses the same technology as the internet used for sending messages around a network. Its main use is to share resources and organisational information

What is an Extranet? An Extranet allows customers, suppliers as well as employees of an organisation to access information. They are protected by usernames and passwords. This is usually accessed through the internet.

What is the Internet? The internet is a network of networks enabling people to exchange information and share data.

Internet Advantages and disadvantages AdvantagesDisadvantages Methods of cheap communication all around the world The ability to access inappropriate material Access to video such as tv programmesCyber bullying Ability to send/receive filesAdvertising pressures – constant bombarding of advertising material Ability to research informationHealth problems – such as RSI Opportunity to share resourcesPrivacy is eroded and lost as information about surfing habits are logged Wide range of software availableGambling addictions Incorrect and inaccurate information

Electronic sent from one communication device to another.

services ServiceUse SearchSearching for specific s ReplyReply to a message keeping log and doesn’t require you to add address ForwardPassing on s Address BookA list of contacts of people you are likely send an too GroupsLists of people and addressed for group s File attachmentsA file attached to an Voice MailboxesAllows voice messages to be sent

advantages and disadvantages AdvantagesDisadvantages Virtually instantaneousNot everyone has No need for the familiarity of a letterJunk is a problem Minus the cost of software and hardware, is freeWorries about security s can be accessed from a wide range of devicesRelies on checking s More environmentally friendlyNot always secure, s can be intercepted and attachments may contain viruses

Wifi AdvantagesDisadvantages Allows inexpensive LANs to be set up without cablesPower consumption is high – i.e. laptop battery drains quicker Allows the freedom of working anywhere within signal MAY MAY be health problems using Wifi Ideal for networks in old listed buildings where cables would not be allowed to be install May be security issues even when using encryption Can be used worldwideHome networks have limited range Possible interference if wireless signals overlap