3) Communication Flashcards
What is a Network?
A network is defined as two or more computers connected together in order to share and transfer data.
Advantages of a network
Share Hardware Share software Share data/files Easier for internal communication Central backup Easier to monitor network activity Centrally controlled security Can access data from any computer
Disadvantages of a network
A network manager may need to be employed - expensive
Easy spread of malware
Easier to hack than a stand alone PC
If server is down, all workstations are affected
Initial cost to setup
LAN VS WAN
LAN = Local Area Network WAN = Wide Area Network
Network topology types
Bus Network
Star Network
Ring network
Bus network
All nodes connected to a single cable
Terminators on both ends
Packets check destination address, if address matches it processes the data.
If not, it ignores that system.
Advantages of Bus network
Easy to implement and add more Computer systems
Quick to set up
Cost effective - less cabling
Disadvantages of Bus network
Difficult to troubleshoot
Limited cable length and number of stations
Problem with main cable = whole network down
Low security
Proper termination is required
Data collisions are more likely
Ring network
Computer systems are connected in a ring
Packets sent around the ring, computer to computer
Advantages of Ring network
Data is quickly transferred without a bottleneck
The transmission of data is relatively simple
Adding additional nodes has very little impact on bandwidth
Prevents network collisions
Disadvantages of Ring network
If 1 computer fails, ring is broken and data cannot be transmitted efficiently.
Difficult to troubleshoot
To add another node you must take down the whole network
Star network
Each computer system is connected to a central node, know as the hub
Advantages of Star network
Good performance Easy to set up Possible to add new computer systems whilst keeping network up Minimal network collisions Better security
Disadvantages of Star network
Expensive to install - more cabling required
Extra hardware required - hub
Connectivety
You need:
1) Network interface card (NIC)
2) Physical hardware port allowing a cable to connect to your computer
3) Connection medium
