Networks

Networks

1. LAN (Local area Network)

   • hardware needed
     • wifi extender
     • ethernet cable
     • network interface card
     • server
     • router
   • Devices that connect over a small geographical area
   • advantages
     • makes computers exchange data easier and quicker
   • disadvantages
     • its limited to a small area
   • wifi
     • advantages
       • good for portable devices
       • cost
     • disadvantages
       • low data transfer speed
       • can be accessed by unauthorised users
       • has short range
   • ethernet
     • advantages
       • high data transfer speed
       • has long range
     • disadvantages
       • portability
       • its more expensive than wifi because of the cost of the cables even though they are cheap

2. WAN (Wide area Network)

   • networks connected over a wide geographical area
   • hardware needed
     • router (with modem built in)
       • modem
     • satellite link
     • telephone line
   • advantages
     • covers a large geographical area
     • makes sharing resources easier because of it allows you to share sensitive data with sites without sending info over the internet
   • disadvantages
     • expensive with a private LAN