Topic 20 Networks

Topic 20 Networks

1. Computers on a network share:

   • Hardware
   • Software
   • Data
     • allow to communicate easier

2. network interface card (NIC)

   • to use the network

3. Servers

   • File
     • programs/data files stored on backing storage
   • Print
   • Database
     • stores large database & can be searched/monitored by anyone on network
   • Mail
     • manages email traffic

4. Advantages

   • data can be shared
   • Software shared
   • can communicate quickly

5. Disadvantages

   • costs can be high to set up
   • viruses spread quickly
   • hacking

6. Types of network

   • peer-to-peer
     • equal status, office environment
   • Client-server network
     • one computer acts as server
   • Local area Network (LAN)
     • same building/site, connected with cables
   • WAN
     • telephone & satellite connection (e.g. internet)

7. Topologies (how network is laid out)

   • Bus
     • if one computer breaks, others dont (simple &cheap to install, but slow)
   • Star
     • all computers connected to central hub
       • if hub fails, computers affected
       • data transfer is fast as direct link
         • more realiable than bus
           • expensive
   • Ring
     • computers connected in a loop
       • if one computer fails, all fail
         • inexpensive but unrealiable

8. Actions protecting data

   • passwords
   • back-ups
   • encryption
   • firewall