1. Lesson Objectives By the end of the lesson you will be able to:
Define the terms Local Area Network (LAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN)
Identify their main characteristics
Describe the 3 main topologies

2. What is a network? Internet Connection Student Software Information
A network is a way of connecting two or more computers together so that they can communicate or share data with each other. What could be shared on a school network?
Internet Connection
Student
Information
Software
Printer
Complete part 1 of your worksheet.

3. Advantages and Disadvantages
There are both advantages and disadvantages of using computer networks. Using page 34 of the textbook complete part 2 of your worksheet.

4. Types of Networks There are two types of networks: LAN and WAN
LAN – Local Area Network
WAN – Wide Area Network
Using page 34 of the textbook complete part 3
of your worksheet.

5. Network Topologies…
Networks can be arranged in different ways. Each way is called a topology. The main topologies you need to be aware of are:
Bus
Star
Tree

6. Bus Topology
All devices connected to the network are connected to a common shared cable called the backbone/central line. Signals are passed in either direction along the backbone.

7. Star Topology
The star topology uses a central connection point for all devices on the network. The central connection point can be a hub or switch.

8. Complete parts 4 and 5 of your worksheet.
Your Turn…
Complete parts 4 and 5 of your worksheet.

9. Plenary – Hands Up! What does LAN stand for? What does WAN stand for?
What’s the main difference between a LAN and WAN?
What is a topology?
Which topology uses a common shared cable?
How does the star topology work?
What is the tree topology?
What does WLAN stand for?

10. Exam Questions
A large company has a LAN. The manager of the company wants to replace it with a WLAN. Explain the differences between a LAN and WLAN, giving an advantage and a disadvantage of WLAN.
Give two reasons why a WLAN would be preferable to a cabled LAN?