NETWORKS

NETWORKS

1. LAN (Local Area Network)

   • Devices connected together over a small geographical area.
   • Connection methods
     • WiFi
       • Wireless Fidelity. A wireless method of connecting to a LAN.
       • WiFi has a longer range in comparison to Ethernet.
         • ...because the signal can be boosted with a WiFi range extender.
       • WiFi has slower data transfer speeds in comparison to Ethernet
         • ...because physical obstructions, such as walls, interfere with the radio waves.
     • Ethernet
       • A protocol (set of rules) that governs how data is sent between connected devices.
       • Ethernet has a smaller range in comparison to WiFi
         • ...because the range is limited by the length of the cable.
       • Ethernet has faster data transfer speeds in comparison to WiFi.
         • ...because the data does not get obstructed by barriers as it travels directly down the cable to its destination.
   • Hardware
     • Router
       • Enables a LAN to connect to a WAN (e.g. the Internet.) and enables devices to communicate with each other in a LAN.
     • NIC (Network Interface Card)
       • Installed in a device, such as a PC, to enable it to connect to a network by providing a means of communication between the device and the network devices (e.g. a router or switch).
     • Switch
       • Facilitates (Enables) communication between multiple devices in a LAN by directing data to the correct device.
     • WAP (Wireless Access Point)
       • Enables WiFi devices to connect to wired networks.
     • Ethernet cable
       • Cable used to connect devices in a LAN together.
   • Enables devices to share data.
   • Enables peripherals, such as printers, to be shared between devices.
   • Enables users to communicate via email (electronic mail).

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