Topic 1 - Networks

Topic 1 - Networks

1. Types of Network

   • Client Server
     • Computers are not all equal status
     • Uses one or more servers
     • Centralised Administration
     • Centralised storage of programs and data
     • Improved Security
     • Backups taken centrally
     • Fast access to programs and data
     • Specialist knowledge needed
     • Used for small or large networks
   • Peer to Peer
     • Only used with small networks
     • No server needed
     • Cheap
     • Users can specify what resources to make available
     • Poor Security

2. Factors affecting choice

   • Cost
     • Server
     • Cabling
     • Routers
     • Software
     • Third Party Communications
   • Security Issues
     • Virus Prevention
     • How hackers can be prevented
     • Restrictions
       • Access to internet
       • Access to programs
       • Access to data
   • Performance Required
     • Cost
     • Speed
     • Reliability
     • Usability
   • How system will be used
     • WAN
     • LAN
   • Existing Systems
     • Need to work with existing software
     • Need to work with existing hardware
   • Size of organisation
     • LAN
     • WAN

3. Network Software

   • Management of User Accounts
     • User logs
     • Access Rights
     • Allocation of passwords
   • Security
     • Passwords and user IDs
     • Virus checkers
     • Firewalls
     • Encryption
   • Configuration management
     • Repair, expand, upgrade
     • Optimisation
     • Reduce Downtime
     • Security optimised
     • Roll back changes
     • Restore settings
   • Remote Managment
     • Check for unauthorised software
     • Guide users through problems
     • Check installed software
     • Check hardware
     • Check on use of email
   • Backup
     • Taken Automatically
     • Use of RAID