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Networks

A network is two or more computers connected together. Computers in a network can pass data to each other. THe simplest network would be two computers linked by a USB cable. The internet is also a type of network. Usually a network involves using a Network Ineterface Card (NIC).

LANs

A LAN is a Local Area Network. A LAN is the most common type of network found in schools offices and small business.

WAN

A Wide Area Network. is distinguihed from the internet by the fact that all the machines in it belong to a single organisation. It used to be easy to distinguish a WAN from a LAN a WAN the signal is passed in an analogue mode. But the use of wireless connections ruled that distinction out.

A Network may contain the following components:

A Network File Server Not an essential component but many of the advantages come from its use. There are several sorts of server the file server is the most common and is used to store data. THe server is a specialised machine with backup tapes and often more than one CPU. it is configured for multitasking. Application servers are used to supply rarely used software packages. Printer servers are not as common now as they once were see below. Server
Terminals or workstations These are usually present in the largest numbers. They give users access to the various facilities. Computer
Print Server (or network enabled printer) A print server was a computer with a shared printer attached then specialist devices were connected to the network and the printer attached to them. Now printers come network enabled - they have software to que the print jobs in thier own dedicated memory. printer
Wire /fibre optic Cables The school has a mixture of these components Fire is used between buildings and between sites.
A radio transmitter / reciever(s) Available for less than £100 and many homes now have a wireless network. The school has several wireless transmitters radio transmitter
A Modem This is an important component. it translates between digital and analogue signals. If the network has this component it is a WAN rather than a LAN. modem

Exercise : Networks
  • The smallest network contains
  • A NIC is
  • A modem
  • A print server is
  • In a network which medium CANNOT used to transfer data
  • The difference between a LAN and a WAN could NOT be described as
(Green indicates success)

 
   

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