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Transfer of data in ICT systems

Using ICT networks

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Basic elements of an ICT network

There are four basic elements of an ICT network.These are:• communication devices• network software• data transfer media• network standards and procedures

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Communication devicesA network interface card:• prepares data for sending

over the network• sends the data• controls the flow of data

from the computer terminal to the transmission medium

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Communication devicesA hub:• is used to join computers in

a network• allows the connection of

cables• allows the sharing of files

and Internet access

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Communication devicesA switch:• is a similar device to a hub

but more intelligent• can look at a packet of data

to decide where it should go• reduces the number of

packets of data on a network, which speeds the network up

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Communication devicesA router:• can be wired or wireless• is used to join several

networks together• is often used to connect

several computers in the home to the Internet

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Networking softwareNetwork software consists of:• network operating systems – specialist operating

systems designed specifically for networks• network management software – used to help a network

manager run a network by keeping track of software, keeping software up-to-date, installing software security patches, helping to manage the help-desk, etc.

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Data transmission medium

The medium/method bywhich the data is transmitted in a network can be:• metal wire• fibre optic cable• wireless

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Standards and protocols

• communication software manages the flow of data across the medium

• it also establishes certain rules, called protocols, by which computers can communicate

• standards are needed so that all network devices work in a similar way