Network

Network

1. a group or system of interconnected people or things.

   • a computer connected to a network is known as a 'work-station'

2. a lan

   • local area network
     • interconnects computers within a limited area
       • home
       • school
       • computer laboratory
       • office building

3. a wan

   • a wide area network
     • a network that covers a broad area
       • metropolitant
       • regional
       • national
       • international

4. disadvantages

   • viruses
     • if a virus is introduced to the network it will spread rapidly and cause havoc to peoples files
   • network failure
     • if the file server fails then no one can access any files or folders
   • slow service
     • the network can slow down
       • requesting files
       • more users
       • sending things to be printed
       • more software applications opened
   • expert support is required
     • networks need constant monitoring

5. advantages

   • cheaper
     • sharing devices
       • printers
     • site licences
   • files can easily be shared
   • network users can communicate
     • instant messenger
     • email
   • security
     • files cant be seen
       • unlike on a standing computer
   • data is easy to backup