Networks

Networks

1. Types

   • LAN
     • Local area network
       • a network covering a small area
   • WAN
     • Wide area network
       • a network covering a large area

2. advantages

   • share files
     • so the same files are avalible whichever computers you use.
   • share resources
     • such as printers and internet connection
   • share logins
     • so the same username and password can be used on every computer on the network

3. Disadvantages

   • cost
     • networks are expensive to set up
   • increased risk
     • problems such as viruses can affect every computer on the network.
   • difficulty
     • expertise is needed to set up and maintain the network

4. topologies

   • star
     • more expensive
     • best and most common
     • no collisions
   • ring
     • no collisions
     • easily severed
   • bus
     • cheapest
     • oldest
     • most likely to fail
     • collisions happen

5. IP addresses

   • a unique value assigned to every computer on a network.
   • IP addresses are used to identify a computer
   • houses and businesses that run their own mini-network inside with different IP addresses