networks hardware and commercial usage

networks hardware and commercial usage

1. ict network consists of

   • hardware/communicatin devices
     • routers
       • switches
         • hubs
   • network software
   • data transfer media-wires
     • fibre optic cable
       • metal

2. data transfer media

   • metal wire
     • fibre optic cable
       • wireless

3. communication devices

   • network interface card
     • prepares data for sending over the network
       • send the data
         • controls the flow of data

4. communication devices

   • a hub
     • used to join computers in a network
       • allows the connection of cables
         • allows sharing of files and internet access
   • a switch
     • similar to hub but not as intelligent
       • looks at packet of data and decides where it should go
         • reduces the amount of packets of data on a network so it speeds it up
   • a router
     • wired or wireless
       • used to join several networks together
         • joins several computers in the home to a network

5. network software

   • network operating systems-specialist designed specifically for networks
   • network management software-used to help a network manger run a network by keeping track of software

6. point of sale systems

   • where you pay for goods at shop/store
   • can use networks to automatically record stock levels and work out what out is what selling well

7. POS-Hardware

   • bar code reader
   • keyboard
   • touch screens
   • swipe card readers
   • chip and pin readers

8. POS netwroks

   • payment systems
   • loyalty systems
     • automatic stock control

9. advantages

   • can share hardware
   • software installed in one place which can save money
   • improved security
   • cost

10. disadvantages

    • network manager needed
    • security problems
    • breakdown problems
    • expensive