Networks Am I hooked up?

Networks definition sizes of networks types advantages and disadvantages how data is sent transmission media business uses

What is a network? A network is a group of 2 or more computers that are linked together either by wires or by a wireless means. In order to network computers you require:  network hardware such as a network interface card  network software  connecting devices such as hubs, routers, etc.  communication lines such as cable or phone line

Sizes of networks A local area network is a network that connects a few computers in a building or in close proximity. A school network is an example of a LAN. A wide area network (WAN) is a network that connects 2 or more LANs. WANs often span across a large area such as a country, a continent or even the world. The Internet is an example of a WAN.

Sizes of networks

Types of networks Peer-to-peer Client/server

Peer-to-peer networks Peer-to-peer networks have no dedicated server but rather the individual computers act as servers and can share files. Users generally have read access but not write access. A peer-to-peer network you may be familiar with is Napster. It is a global peer-to-peer network for the purpose of sharing music files.

Client/server networks In a client/server network, a server (or central computer) has a large disk for storage. Computers connected to the server share processing and storage functions with the server. A client (or user PC) can access files on the server but not necessarily other user files. A client/server network generally requires a login to access the network.

Advantages of a network A network allows users to: communicate share resources exchange information store data

Communication A network allows users to communicate via electronic mail ( ) and to send files as attachments. Users in a network may also teleconference or video conference.

Share resources A network allows users to share resources such as:  printer  application software

Exchange information Users on a network can share files and information.

Storage of data Files stored on a network can be backed up automatically. Network storage of files creates great storage capacity and the ability to access files from remote locations.

How data is sent Data is transmitted in small pieces called packets. The network uses a protocol or set of rules that determines how packets are configured and transmitted. An example of a network protocol is Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). Every computer requires an IP address which is either permanently assigned or dynamically assigned at startup.

Disadvantages the cost to setup a network the administration costs to maintain and manage the network viruses can spread quickly across a network loss of privacy

Types of transmission media The transmission of data is done using phone lines, television cable or wireless links such as satellite.

Business uses Networks used in business are often client/server networks where users login in to access the server. The server is run by an administrator who ensures that backups are done on a regular basis. Business may also use intranets or private web sites not accessible to the public in order to make information and files available online.

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