network Flashcards
what is a network?
a network is two computers connected with a cable (Ethernet).
advantages of the network
Advantages:
It allows communications between workers
It allows data to be shared
It allows peripherals to be shared
It allows computers to be upgraded more easily
It allows distributed processing (computers to do jobs together)
disadvantages of the network
Disadvantages:
Expertise required to set up a large network
Cost of buying network equipment
Security issues from unauthorised access to data
Measures to secure a network include:
Passwords – strong passwords use a range of character types;
Changing passwords frequently;
Do not allow users to install software;
With wireless access, use encryption.
LAN (Local Area Network)
It is a connected set of computers and other devices (printers, servers etc)
A LAN covers a small geographical area
All the hardware/cables/computers etc are owned by the organisation or individual who owns the LAN
WAN (Wide area network)
Computers are connected over a large geographical area. This could be several buildings/sites, town wide, county wide or even country wide.
WANs are normally made up of multiple smaller networks or LANs connected together.
Network Interface Card (NIC)
Each device needs a NIC to connect to the LAN
Produces the electrical signals that carry data via Ethernet cable
hub
A device that connects nodes together to make them act as a single segment
Not smart – all data packets are transmitted to all devices
Cheap – USB hubs useful in home computer installations
switch
A smart device that can create and connect to different segments of the network.
This reduces network traffic because data is confined to the segment where it is needed rather than being broadcast to the whole network.
routers
Routers work with data packets to send data between different networks.
wireless access point
Wireless access points allow you to connect a device to a network without having to use a physical wire.
The most common way of connecting your device is by using Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi may seem like a great to avoid trailing wires all over your house, but there are good points and bad points to using a wireless network.
Client – Server
A high specification machine
It offers services to client machines, such as centrally held software, data, file storage and peripheral access
A server controls network traffic
Provides security
Peer to Peer
- There is no server in a peer-to-peer network
- All computers have the same status
- May be very slow because of
- data collisions
- shared processor power
- Only suitable for small networks
