Local Area Network

Local Area Network

1. Switches

   • Switches are a primary hardware component in LANS'S,enabling network communication.
   • Switches are used to interconnect the hardware cabling throughout the LAN and permit the flow of data.
   • Switches run 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
     • Advantages (Switch)
       • Switches reduce the workload on individual computers
       • Switches increase network performance
       • Disadvantages (Switch)

2. Wireless Access Points

   • To provide greater flexibility and reduce cabling requirements, wireless access points can be introduced into the LAN.
   • This hardware device uses antennas to send out radio waves to computers, enabling workplace mobility.
   • The access point connects to a LAN switch to extend network services.
     • Advantages (wireless access points)
       • An ordinary wireless router can only support 10-20 users access, while AP is able to allow over 50 or even hundreds of users access, and what’s more, it has stronger ability to send and receive signals.
       • an AP can cover further distances, up to 100-300 meters

3. Servers

   • Servers are enterprise class computers providing the workplace with services ranging from messaging, virus protection, applications and collaboration tools.
     • Advantages (server)
       • Since servers contain larger cache memories in their CPU's,they can fetch frequently requested faster
       • Servers have a higher storage capacity as multiple disk can be inserted
       • Disadvantage (server)
         • Running a Server-based network is the increased cost. Servers are much more expensive than PC’s to acquire

4. Routers

   • In order for devices on the network to connect to the internet,the router must be connected
     • Advantages (routers)
       • Routers can connect different network architectures, such as Ethernet and Token Ring
       • Routers reduce network traffic by creating collision domains
       • Disadvantages (routers)
         • Routers are more expensive than other devices
         • Dynamic router communications (inter-router communication) cause additional network overhead, which results in less bandwidth for user data

5. Phone line

   • You need a phone line so you can access the internet
   • Telephone overhead lines are connected to the public telephone network

6. WPAN (Wireless Personal Area Network)

   • What is WPAN?
     • Wpan is pairing devices over a short range.This is called Bluetooth
   • Hardware needed to connect to wpan
   • Advantages
     • Travels at 25 MB PS
       • Has a range of 30 meters
   • Hardware needed to connect to WPAN
     • Desktop Machines
     • Smart phones

7. WAN

   • Wide Area Network