Networks

Networks

1. Star

   • Star-bus
     • Advantages
     • Disadvantages
   • Advantages
     • If one cable/computer breaks, the rest will continue to work normally
     • Direct access to the file srver means a fast connection
   • Disadvantages
     • Expensive to install the necessary cables
     • If the hub fails, all computers lose data
   • A switch can be used to speed up the transfer of data through the hub

2. Bus

   • Advantages
     • Cheap network to set up
     • If one computer fails, the rest will continue to work
   • Disadvantages
     • Speed of data is slow
     • If the network cable breaks, none of the computers can access the network

3. Ring

   • Disadvantages
     • If one cable breaks, the whole network is affected
     • If one device breaks, the whole network will fail
   • Advantages
     • Chep network to set up
     • Data speed is continuous - no data collision

4. WAN/LAN

   • Gateway
     • Transfers data between a LAN and a WAN
     • Normally uses a router
   • Intranet
     • A network providing similar services to the Internet but only available within ne company/organisation
   • Extranet
     • Part of an Intranet that can be accessed by authorised members of the public
   • Bridge
     • Connects a LAN to another LAN

5. Advantages

   • Hardware can be shared
   • Software can be shared
   • Data can be shared
   • Networked comuters can communicate
   • Networked computers can be controlled by a network manager
   • Files on a server can be backed up more easily

6. Disadvantages

   • Costs of cabling/setting up can be high
   • Viruses can quickly spread through the network
   • It is easier for hackers to gain access to files through a network
   • Networks can be faulty resulting in loss of data

Images and files in the map