Networks

Networks

1. Type of Networkds

   • LAN
     • Local Area Network
     • Used to connect devices within a small geographical area
       • Most likely a building/site
     • Connects computers together and allows a shared access over devices such as printer
       • Most commonly using an Ethernet cable but could use Wi-Fi connection as well
     • Advantages
       • Saves money on peripherals due to shared access
       • Files could be accessed from any linked devices within the network as data is stored in a central location
       • Computers are centrally managed
         • Good for back up and installing softwares
   • PAN
     • Personal Area Networks
     • Used to connect devices within the range of a single person
       • Via USB or Bluetooth
     • Advantages
       • Allows automatic synchronisation
       • More secure as it covers a smaller area
       • Reduced need for cabelling
   • WAN
     • Wide Area Network
     • Allows user to share files while in different locations
     • Used to connect devices within a large geographical area
       • Multiple buildings
     • Advantages
       • High level of security so confidential data could be shared across the network
       • Files can be shared/accessed from different locations
       • Faster data transfer speed as it uses private leased lines not broadband internet
         • These are called Dedicated WANs
   • VPN
     • Virtual Private Network
     • Encrypts data between shared networks
       • It runs through a public network such as WAN or LAN to make it secure/private
     • Advantages
       • Cheaper than WAN
       • More Secure
       • Data will remain secure even when using a public/unsecured network due to data encryption

2. Factors affecting the choice of network

   • Network choice factors
     • User experience
       • Ease of use
         • How simple it is for the user to connect to the network
       • Performance
         • How fast the network is at transferring
       • Availability
         • How easily available it is for the users
       • Accessibility
         • How suitable the network is for access from someone with a disability
     • User needs
       • What will the network be used for?
       • Why is it required?
       • What task are going to be completed while using it?
     • Specification
       • Specific requirements for the network
         • Such as data transfer speed, maximum bandwidth, power consumption and functionality
       • It depends on the needs of the user
     • Connectivity
       • How will be the network connected to devices?
         • Wi-Fi or cable broadband
       • Depends on user needs for speed, capacity, user experience and reliability
     • Cost
       • How much will it cost financially to setup and maintain the network
         • Huge range depending on the technologies used
     • Efficiency
       • Based on how effectively the network allows the users to complete tasks with as little wastage of resources
         • Time and Staff
     • Compatibility
       • Is the network compatible with the devices connecting to the network
     • Implementation
       • Timescales
         • The time it takes for the new network to be delivered
       • Testing
         • Extensive testing of the network
       • Downtime
         • The length of time the user will be without access to the network services
     • Productivity
       • How quickly could tasks be completed when making use of the network
         • Important for those who rely on the network
     • Security
       • How safe the network is from security threats
         • Such as hackers
         • Important for those who transmit data across a country or the world
   • Network performance factors
     • A server's CPU and memory could be overwhelmed by heavy usage
       • Could lead to the server crashing
       • This could prevent the access to network services
     • Limited bandwidth in the data transmission method
       • Means slow data transfer speed
       • Could lead to the log in process and saving/loading files to take extremely long time
     • Firewalls used for security on the network can slow down data transfer
       • This could be because of the firewall checking packets for threats
     • SOHO Networking equipment being used cannot provide the same performance of a professional equipment
       • SOHO means Small Office Home Office