Networks

Networks

1. LAN (Local Area Network)

   • Devices that are connected in a small geographical area.
   • Advantages
     • Lets you connect to different devices around the house (not always a house). (Allows devices to communicate).
   • Disadvantages
     • Can't connect to other Local Area Networks without a telephone cable.
   • Hardware required
     • Router
     • Server
     • Ethernet cable
     • Wifi extender
     • Network interface card
   • Wifi
     • Advantages
       • More reliable than an ethernet cable. Also wireless.
     • Disadvantages
       • Slower data transfer speed than ethernet. (250Mbps)
         • People can hack into your wifi. (Because there's a password)
   • Ethernet
     • Advantages
       • Ethernet has a fast transfer speed (1000Mbps) compared to wifi (250Mbps).
       • Can't be hacked because you can't hack a wire.

2. WAN (Wide Area Network)

   • 2 or more LAN's connected over a large geographical area.
   • Hardware required
     • Telephone connection/cable
     • GPRS
     • Satellite
     • Modem
   • Advantages
     • Allows people to play games and/or do work together over the internet.
     • Can connect to LAN's a long distance away.
   • Disadvantages
     • More issues because it's spread over a large geographical area.
     • Unless a firewall is used, it can be hacked by unauthorised users.

3. WPAN (Wireless Personal Area Network)

   • Also known as bluetooth: Used to connect devices over short distances (10 metres).
   • Advantages
     • It can pair up to 7 bluetooth devices at one time.
     • Good for shorter range connection.
   • Disadvantages
     • Not good for long range connection.
     • Can be hacked by unauthorised users (hackers).