networks

networks

1. hardware

   • router
     • this is used so that all devices can connect to a central point in a local area network
   • switch
     • switches can connect to other switches and routers to build large local area networks for example a school.
   • ethernet cable
     • So that you can connect your device to a router, switch or another computer. They allow high data transfer speeds across your local area network of up to 1000Mbps.
   • network interface card
     • Any device which connects to a LAN or a WAN must have a network interface card! The card will connect your device to a switch, router or a wireless access point. In portable devices a network interface card will be wireless. Desktop PCs will normally have a network interface with an Ethernet port and an antenna to connect wirelessly.
   • wireless access point
     • This is commonly known as a WiFi range extender. They are used to connect portable devices to your local area network.
   • server
     • a server is really just a powerful computer which controls the network!
   • modem
     • A modem is used to connect you to a wide area network such as the Internet. Your router normally has this built in so that many devices can share the same internet connection.
   • Peripherals
     • These are any devices which connect to your computer system.

2. network types

   • lan
     • Devices which are connected together over a small geographical area
   • wan
     • a network which is connected together over a large geographical area
   • wapan
     • A WPAN (wireless personal area network) is a personal area network - a network for interconnecting devices centered around an individual person's workspace