Networks

Networks

1. LAN

   • Local Area Network
   • used for connecting and communicate all computer/ devices in a small area e.g in schools
   • Cheap to maintain, update, run and build

2. WAN

   • Wide Area Network
   • Most WANs are made up of multiple LANs
   • They cover a large geographical area
   • Expensive to update, run, build and maintain
   • can be used in different buildings

3. Ring

   • Each device within the network is connected to each other this forms a ring for signals to travel around
   • can transfer data quickly
     • As data travels in one direction
     • No collisions as data travels in one direction
   • If the main cable fails/ gets damage the whole network goes down

4. Star

   • Each device within the network has its own cable connected to the hub
   • Expensive to install and build
   • If the hub or switch does down the network also does

5. Bus

   • Advantages
     • Easy and cheap to install
     • doesn't require much cables
   • Disadvantages
     • if the main cable goes down then the whole networks goes down
     • low security as the whole network see all
   • servers, printers computer are joined to one cable at each of the cable there is a terminator fitted

6. Key Term

   • Hub
     • sends every packet of data to every device connected
   • Switch
     • sends packet of data to destinated device
   • Network
     • A number of computer/ devices linked together to allow them to share resources e.g. printers, data, software, hardware .etc
   • Peer to peer Network
     • A network where every computer connected act as a client and server
   • Client Server
     • A network where a powerful computer act as a centrelised computer connected to less powerful computer
   • Terminator
     • Role: is to absorb signals so that they do not reflect
   • Extranet
     • A network that used internet to link to several intranets
   • Gateway
     • When dissimilar networks are connected together (e.g. a WAN and a LAN)
   • Bridge
     • when similar networks are connected (e.g. 2 LANs)