Network Basics

Network Basics

1. What is needed to connect ?

   • Hardware
     • A switch - a network device used to connect computers in a network using cables so that communication can occur.
     • Every computer that connects to a network using cables - has to have a Network Interface Controller (NIC). Network cable - plugged into NIC on computer - allow communication of computer on network. Network Interface Controllers - built into the motherboard of all computers.
     • Hardware in a network - includes computers & cellphones/smartphones that are linked in the network, as well as - other hardware that can be shared such as : printers and scanners.
     • A modem or modem-router is a network device - enables devices to communicate wirelessly in a network & to allow Internet connectivity using a telephone line.
   • Connection Methods
     • Wired Connection
       • With a wired connection, cables are used - as communication media to connect computers and other devices in a network.. The cable that is commonly used - UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair)
     • Wireless Connection
       • Another method of connecting computers and devices in a network would be to connect them wirelessly. A base station, such as a wireless modem/router is installed and all the devices would connect wirelessly using this device.
   • Network Operating System
     • Network operating system : software that controls all communication & securities in a network. Most operating systems have built-in networking capabilities.

2. Types Of Small Networks

   • Home Area Network
     • This is a small network within a persons home environment and connects devices such a computers, printers, cellphones and gaming devices.
     • These networks can use either wired or wireless technologies for communication. If the network uses wireless technology, the people can access the network form any room in the house and access is not limited by cables.
     • An internet connection using a telephone line can be shared by all the computers in the home if they are on the network.
     • Home security systems, garden irrigation systems and lighting systems can be connected to the HAN and can be controlled remotely via telephone or the internet.
     • Main Advantages:
       • Efficienet communication between devices in the HAN, which leads to flexibility.
       • Resources such as printers can be shared amongst all the users.
       • Data saved on the different computers can be shared and transferred easily.
       • Games can be played with other people using the network.
   • Personal Area Network
     • These typically involve a laptop and a cellphone or a smartphone and even a printer.
     • Connections with other people in close proximity can be made, this can be made through using bluetooth on their cellphones.
     • PAN is used for short exchange of data or simple tasks like printing, downloading files from a cellphone to a laptop or exchanging files with another devicein close proximity. a PAN can connect to another network such as the internet for checking e-mail or browsing the internet.
     • Main Advantages:
       • Files can be backed up from a cellphone to a laptop and vice versa.
         • A user can e-mail and browse the internet by connecting the PAN to the internet whilst on the move.
           • Small files can be easily transferred between devices.
       • A main disavdantage of a PAN is its limited range.
     • This is a computer network organised around an individual with a range of a few metres.