Networks

Networks

1. A set of connected computers and other devices in order to share resources

2. Advantages

   • Brings people and data together
     • Improves productivity
   • Work groups
     • Databases can be queried and updated by many people at the same time
     • Documents passed between workers to edit and update them
   • Shared databases
     • A single master copy of data is maintained on a central server
   • Distributed systems
     • Data and software can be stored or held on different computers in different locations but can share the results
   • Communications
     • Good for sharing data
       • E.g: Email, sound, video
   • Device sharing
     • All users can access periherals such as printers
   • Software sharing and maintainance
     • Common software can be stored on a server
       • Updates can be done on the server copy so that it doesnt have to be updated on all machines using it
   • Security
     • Servers can restrict the access that users have

3. Disadvantages

   • Expertise
     • You have to employ experts
       • Can be expensive
       • A solution is to outsource the running of the network
   • Security
     • Networks can help unauthorised people gain access to data
     • Can be minimised by
       • Using strong passwords
       • Changing passwords frequently
       • Logging out after use
       • Be wary of trojans
       • Not visiting certain websites (Enforced by firewall)