Module 2.1 - Introducing Networks

Question 1

What is a network?

Answer 1

When two or more coputers are connected to each other.

A network is therefore:

1. a collection of computers or other computing devices such as smare phones
2. Connected by some sort of communication media (either via cable or wirelessly)

Question 2

What does LAN and WAN stand for?

Answer 2

LAN - Local Area Networks

WAN - Wide Area Networks

Question 3

What is a LAN?

Answer 3

Local Area Network - connecting computers in a small area such as a school

Question 4

What is a WAN?

Answer 4

Wide Area Network - connecting computers which are spread over wide geographical areas

Question 5

Draw a simple network

Answer 5

Question 6

Why have a network? What are the reasons of having a network?

Answer 6

1. to make communication amoung users possible
2. to enable users to share resources such as information, Hardware and software

Question 7

What are the advantages of using Networks (SHORT ANSWERS)?

Answer 7

1. Fast efficient communication
2. Sharing of hardware resouces
3. Centralisation of data
4. Transfer of files
5. Leisure
6. Increased control and security
7. Flexible access

Question 8

What are the disadvantages of having a network (SHORT ANSWERS)?

Answer 8

1. Expertise necessary
2. High level of security necessary
3. Harmful software can spread
4. Network problem can imply that users cannot access their data
5. Central fault can cuase loss of data

Question 9

What are the disadvantages of having a network (LONG ANSWERS)?

Answer 9

1. A higher level of expertise is necessary to manage a network and an organisation will have to hire a network administrator to manage the network.
2. A high level of security needs to oe set up to ensure that information is kept confidential and data cannot be stolen. Folder access needs to be strictly controlled.
3. Harmful software such as viruses can spread quickly via a network.
4. If the network develops a problem, potentially no users can work, print or access their data.
5. A central fault in the network such as the server crashing can cause a loss of data.

Question 10

What are the advantages of using Networks? (LONG ANSWERS)

Answer 10

1. Fast efficient communication, people can communicate using e-mail, chat and video conferencing
2. Sharing of hardware resouces - equipment such as disk drives, printers, DVD players and scanners can be shared amongst users on the network. Is a lot cheaper than buying these devices for each computer
3. Centralisation of data - often more than one person needs access to the same information. By networking you can allow other users to access and use files of folders on a central computer as if the file or folder was actually on their own computer. It also becomes easier to maintain the integrity of data.
4. Transfer of files - allows people to transfer files without the limitations of using flash drives or CD’s from computer to computer. Files can be transferred using the network.
5. Leisure - LAN parties or “LANing” are popular activities where people get together and play games on a network
6. Increased control and security - data of an organisation can be centrally stored on one or more computers, making it easier to ensure that the data is backed up and kept secure.
7. Flexible access - users can access their information from any computer on the network.