Networks

Networks

1. Bus network topology

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

2. Star network topology

   • Advantages
     • All the computers are connected to a central hub which directs the flow of data.
     • Each computer has its own connection to the hub, so if one computer cable breaks down, it doesn’t affect any of the other computers so they will still be able to access the file server.
     • Direct access to the file server which means the access is fast.
   • Disadvantages
     • Expensive to install due to cabling needs.
     • If the hub or file server at the centre of the network fails. All the computers are affected.

3. Ring network topology

   • Advantages
     • Cheap network to setup.
     • Data speed is continuous (no data collision)
   • Disadvantages
     • If any computers or the network cable breaks, it can affect the whole network.

4. Servers

   • A file server is a computer on a network that holds files that can be used by other computers on the same network.
   • A client-server network has one computer acting as a file server.
   • In a peer-to peer network all computers are of equal importance.

5. LAN

   • A LAN covers a small area such as one site or building, eg a school or a college.
   • Lan stands for local Area Network

6. WAN

   • A WAN covers a large geographical area. Most WANs are made from several LANs connected together.
   • WAN stands for wide Area Network

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