Network Types

Question 1

Benefits of using a computer network over a stand alone computer

Answer 1

Share hardware
Share software
Share data/files
Easier for internal communication/can send email
Central backup
Easier to monitor network activity
Centrally controlled security
Can access data from any computer

Question 2

Drawbacks/Disadvantages of using a computer network over a stand alone computer

Answer 2

A network manager may need to be employed which means it can be expensive
Security problems – files sent between computers could spread a virus
Hackers can gain access to data more easily
If the server is down, all workstations on the network are affected
Initial cost of servers, communication devices, etc. can be expensive

Question 3

What are the two main types of network?

Answer 3

LAN - Local area network

WAN - Wide area network

Question 4

What is WAN?

Answer 4

A WAN is a network, in which the computers systems are all located relatively distant from each other, for example, in different buildings all over the country or in different countries.

Question 5

What is LAN?

Answer 5

A LAN is a network in which the computer systems are all located relatively close to each other, for example, in the same building or on the same site, such as a school.

Question 6

Give an example of LAN

Answer 6

A ‘LAN party’ is a gaming term for multiple users playing together on the same local network.

Question 7

Give an example of WAN

Answer 7

The Internet is an example of a WAN. Many LANs could be linked using a WAN.