Networks

Networks

1. Computer Network

   • Networks are systems that are formed by links.
   • Networks share information and use various methods to direct the manner in which information flows.
   • A host is any device that sends and receives information on the network.
   • Network can share many different types of resources and data: Services, Storage space on removable devices, Applications, Documents, Calendars...
   • The benefits of networking computers and other devices include lowered costs and increased productivity.
   • Resources can be shared to reduce data duplication and data corruption.
   • Each computer on the network does not need to have its own printer or backup device.
   • Networks provide several different collaboration tools that can be used to communicate between network users.

2. Types of Networks

   • Lan
     • A LAN can be as small as a single local network installed in a home or small office.
     • . An individual network usually spans a single geographical area, providing services and applications to people within a common organizational structure. A LAN can be made up of multiple local networks.
   • WLAN
     • A Wireless LAN (WLAN) is a LAN that uses radio waves to transmit data between wireless devices.
     • In a WLAN, wireless devices connect to access points within a specified area. Access points are typically connected to the network using copper cabling.
   • PAN
     • A personal area network (PAN) is a network that connects devices, such as mice, keyboards, printers, smartphone, and tablets within the range of an individual person.
     • Bluetooth is a wireless technology that enables devices to communicate over short distances. A Bluetooth device can connect up to seven other Bluetooth devices.
   • MAN
     • A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a network that spans across a large campus or a city. The network consists of various buildings interconnected through wireless or fiber optic backbones.
     • A MAN can act as a high-speed network to allow sharing of regional resources.
   • WAN
     • A wide area network (WAN) connects multiple smaller networks such as LANs that are in geographically separated locations.
     • The Internet is a large WAN that is composed of millions of interconnected LANs.
   • Peer To Peer
     • In a peer-to-peer network, there is no hierarchy among the computers, nor are there any dedicated servers.
     • Peer-to-peer networks work best in environments with ten or fewer computers.

3. Data Flow