Networks

Networks

1. LAN (local area network)

   • Devices connected over a small geographical area
   • Hardware needed
     • WiFi extender
     • Router
     • Ethernet cable
   • Ways to connect to a LAN
     • WiFi
       • Wireless connection
       • Advantages
         • WiFi is cheaper than Ethernet because it is free
         • WiFi is wireless so can connect to smartphones and tablets
       • Disadvantages
         • WiFi is slower compared to Ethernet because there isn't a cable that is there and that means that the data transfer speed is not as fast
         • WiFi has the shortest range because it is not made to reach as far as Eternet
         • People can hack into the WiFi and is easier to get into because it has a password and you don't have to plug into a wire
     • Ethernet
       • Wired connection
       • Adventages
         • Ethernet has a faster data transfer speed compared to WiFi therefore there is nothing blocking the data transfer
         • Ethernet is not as easy to hack into because you would have to plug into a cable but WiFi is easy to get into
         • Has a range of 100 meters
         • It has a range of 100 meters
       • Disadvantages
         • It is not wireless so you can't move around with it
         • It's more expensive than WiFi
         • You can't plug it into a phone or tablet it has to be a laptop or computer
         • You can't plug it into a phone or tablet it has to be a laptoop or desktop computer
         • It is more expensive than WiFi

2. WAN (wide area network)

   • Hardware needed
     • Modem
     • Telephone line
     • Router (with modem built in)
     • Satellite link
   • Networks connected over a large geographical area
   • Advantages
   • Disadvantages