1. By the end of this section, you will know and understand the hardware and software involved in making a LAN!

2. Main computer on the network. More powerful than other computers on the network. Contains a large amount of RAM and Hard Disk space. Holds the networks OS e.g. Windows XP Holds the application software e.g. Microsoft Office Suite. Stores the user files created on the system.

3. Also known as NIC. Each computer MUST have one of these. It communicates with the file server and other computers on the network. an RJ-45 NIC

4. These plug into the back of each computer and link them together. They go straight into the Network Interface Card inside the computer. This is an RJ-45 cable, otherwise known as an Ethernet Cable.

5. A switch is a single connection point for a group of computers. The switch is then connected to the file server and organises the communication. Not needed with all networks.

6. By the end of this section, you will know and understand the hardware and software involved in making a WAN!

7. Stands for Modulator – Demodulator. First created to take digital signals from a computer and convert them to analogue so that they can be transmitted down a telephone line. Speed at which a modem operates will affect the download time of web pages and files.

8. An ISP sells Internet access to companies and individuals. It provides web servers which connect to the Internet. An ISP will provide it’s customers with a wide range of services… Bandwidth options. Email service. Web Hosting. Online and Telephone assistance.

9. Browser software allows users to view and use the web pages on the Internet. Features include: An Address Bar. A Navigation Bar. A Bookmark/Favourites Option. A Search Engine. A History Button. Browser Setting and Internet Options e.g. Filtering.