1. What is a Network?

2. Definition of a computer network A computer network is a system in which computers are connected to share information and resources.

3. Advantages of Computer Network Sharing Information Sharing Resources Sharing Programs Preservation & Protection of Information

4. TYPES OF NETWORKS 1) LAN LOCAL AREA NETWORK 2) WAN WIDE AREA NETWORK 3) MAN Metropolitan Area Network

5. TYPES OF NETWORK ARRANGEMENTS SERVER-BASED Network PEER to PEER (Workgroup)

6. SERVER-BASED Consists of a central computer that serves information and resources to other computers Advantages: highly efficient, strong central security, central file storage and organization Disadvantages: expensive server hardware and networking operating system software. A dedicated network administrator is required

7. PEER TO PEER This arrangement is defined by a lack of a central control over the network Advantages: no extra costs for sever hardware or software, easy to set up, no network administrator is required Disadvantages: weak security, additional load on computers because of resource sharing, lack of central organization of data