Networks

Networks

1. What are they?

   • A collection of connected computer systems
     • PC's
     • Printers
     • Speakers

2. 4 Basic Elements

   • Communication devices
   • Network software
   • Data transfer media
   • Network standards and procedures

3. Components of a network

   • Network interface card
     • Allows a device to connect to a network and connect and send data to other devices over the network.
   • HUB
     • Using cables to connect computers to a network
       • Allows the sharing of files and internet access
   • Switch
     • Can co-ordinate the movement of data
       • Reduces the number of packets of data on a network
         • Increasing the speed
   • Router
     • Can be wired or wireless
       • Allows several devices to connect to the internet
   • Networking Software
     • Specific networks work with specific software
       • There is also network managing software
         • Allows a network manager to manage the network
       • Windows, IOS, Linux ect

4. Data transmission medium/methods

   • Metal Wires
     • High transmission speed but expensive to install
       • Two types
         • Shielded Twisted Pair
           • Wires are twisted with copper brailing
             • To try to protect against interference
               • More expensive but higher transmission speeds
         • Un-Shielded Twisted Pair
           • Thin wires are twisted
             • Cheaper and easier to install
   • Fibre Optics
     • Data is passed through a reflective tube
       • At the speed of light
         • Much faster than metal wires
       • Large amounts of data travels through a reltaivley small tube
       • No electrical interference
     • Very expensive
       • Requires special connectors at either ends
     • Used over quite long distances most commonly
   • Wireless
     • Uses radio waves to connect multiple devices
       • To a network such as the internet