Networks- Hardware and Commercial Usage

Networks- Hardware and Commercial Usage

1. ICT Network

   • Consists of...
     • Hardware/Communication Devices
       • Routers
       • Switches
       • Hubs
     • Network Software
     • Data transfer media-wires:
       • Fibre optic Cables
       • Metal

2. Data transfer media

   • Metal wire
   • Fibre optic cable
   • Wireless
   • High speed

3. Communication Devices

   • Network Interface Card
     • NIC
     • Prepares data for sending
     • Sends data
     • Controls flow of data
   • Hub
     • Connection of cables
     • Join computers in a network
     • Allows sharing of files and internet access
   • Switch
     • Look at packet of data
       • Decides where it should go/end up
     • Similar to a HUB
       • But more intelligent
     • Reduces packets of data which speeds the network up
   • Router
     • Often used in the home to connect devices such as: a computer to the internet
     • Used to join several networks together
     • Can be wired or wireless

4. Network software

   • Consists of network consists of network operating systems- specialist operating systems designed specifically for networks
   • Network management software- Used to help a network manager manager run a network by keeping track of software, keeping software up-to-date, installing software security patches and helping to manage the help-desk.

5. POS- Point of sale systems

   • Where you pay for products at a shop/store
   • Use network to automatically record stock levels an work out what is selling well.