Networking

By Nachiket Agrawal 10DD

NetworkA Network consists of more

than one computer that are interconnected in order to share files, resources, web and more.

Stand AloneA stand alone device is one

which does not require any other devices to function. For example a fax (facsimile) device does not require a modem or a computer to function while a printer needs to be connected to a device, a computer, to function. A Stand alone

deviceNot a stand alone device

LANThe Local Area Network is a

computer network that interconnects devices in a limited area.

For example a LAN can be over a school, office, home, etc.

Advantages and disadvantages of LAN

Advantages:1. Hardware can be

shared.2. Network software is

cheaper than individual packages.

3. The users can access the same files.

4. A single internet connection can be shared between the users.

Disadvantages:1. Can be expensive to set

up and maintain.2. A virus can spread to all

computers if one is infected.

3. Can be more prone to hacking as there are multiple access points.

4. If the file server goes down, the entire network can go down if it is a star network.

Cabled LANCabled LAN is used to connect a network device

to multiple network devices and depending on the size of the network, different cables are used which are:

1. Twisted pair: is a form of wiring in which two conductors are twisted and this is usually used for home and office uses.

2. Coaxial cable: uses electromagnetic waves inside the cable and is usually used for televisions.

3. Optical fiber: is the latest form of cabled LAN and uses light impulses to transfer information.

LAN TopologiesThere are different types of

network called topologies:1. The bus topology2. The ring topology3. The star topology

RouterA router is a device that

transfers data between computer networks.

WANThe WAN is a communication

network that covers a broad area.For example between countries,

regional area and more.

ClientsA client is an application that can

access a service which is made available by a server.

The two main types of clients are:

1. The Fat client: Performing the bulk of data processing operations itself.

2. The Thin client: Mostly uses the resources of the hosts.

ServerA server is a computer program

running to serve the requests of the clients.

For example a server in a school would be controlling and storing the data.

Client/server networkA client/server network is one

which deals with the requests of their clients and the servicers of the servers to transfer information and more.

Peer to Peer NetworkA peer to peer network is one in

which each computer in the network can act as a client and a server. These can be for allowing shared access to files and peripherals.

Bibhttp://

fcit.usf.edu/network/chap1/chap1.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peer-to-peer

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Client%E2%80%93server_model

http://education.mu/forum/index.php?topic=306.0

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Networking_cables