INFORMATION SHEET 1

LO4 Install peripherals to a network

Title: Plan peripheral location

Title: Plan peripheral location

4.1.1 Identifying computer network &types

A computer network is a system in which computers are connected to share information and
resources. The connection can be done as peer-to-peer or client/server. This web site reviews the
techniques you can use to set up and possibly manage a network for home or a small business.
A computer network can be two computers connected:

 
A computer network can also consist of, and is usually made for, more than two computers:
The primary purpose of a computer network is to share resources:
 You can play a CD music from one computer while sitting on another computer
 You may have a computer that doesn’t have a DVD or BluRay (BD) player. In this case, you can
place a movie disc (DVD or BD) on the computer that has the player, and then view the movie
on a computer that lacks the player
 You may have a computer with a CD/DVD/BD writer or a backup system but the other
computer(s) doesn’t (don't) have it. In this case, you can burn discs or make backups on a
computer that has one of these but using data from a computer that doesn’t have a disc writer or
a backup system
 You can connect a printer (or a scanner, or a fax machine) to one computer and let other
computers of the network print (or scan, or fax) to that printer (or scanner, or fax machine)
 You can place a disc with pictures on one computer and let other computers access those pictures

A network is any collection of independent computers that communicate with one another over a
shared network medium. A computer network is a collection of two or more connected computers.
When these computers are joined in a network, people can share files and peripherals such as modems,
printers, tape backup drives, or CD-ROM drives.

Every network includes:

 At least two computers Server or Client workstation.
 Networking Interface Card's (NIC)
 A connection medium, usually a wire or cable, although wireless communication between
networked computers and peripherals is also possible.
 Network Operating system software, such as Microsoft Windows NT or 2000, Novell NetWare,
UNIX and Linux.

Characteristics of a Computer Network

  You can create files and store them in one computer, then access those files from the other
computer(s) connected to it

Types of computer network

A network is a group of two or more computer systems linked together. There are many types of
computer networks, including:
 local-area networks (LANs) : The computers are geographically close together (that is, in the
same building).
 wide-area networks (WANs) : The computers are farther apart and are connected by telephone
lines or radio waves.

LANs (Local Area Networks)

A network is any collection of independent computers that communicate with one another over a
shared network medium. LANs are networks usually confined to a geographic area, such as a single
building or a college campus. LANs can be small, linking as few as three computers, but often link
hundreds of computers used by thousands of people. The development of standard networking
protocols and media has resulted in worldwide proliferation of LANs throughout business and
educational organizations.
 WANs (Wide Area Networks)

Wide area networking combines multiple LANs that are geographically separate. This is
accomplished by connecting the different LANs using services such as dedicated leased phone lines,
dial-up phone lines (both synchronous and asynchronous), satellite links, and data packet carrier
services. Wide area networking can be as simple as a modem and remote access server for employees
to dial into, or it can be as complex as hundreds of branch offices globally linked using special
routing protocols and filters to minimize the expense of sending data sent over vast distances.

Self-Check 1 Written Test

Name________________________________ Date_________________
Instruction: Answer all the questions listed below, if you have some clarifications- feel free to ask your
teacher.
1. Define computer network?(1point)

2. What are the characteristics of computer network?(5pont)

3. Writ 6 types of computer networking?(6 point)

4. Explain Local Area Network and give at least 3 example ?(3 points)
 5. Explain Wide Area Network and give at least 3 example ?(3 points)

INFORMATION SHEET 2

LO4:-Install peripherals to a network

Title: Types of topology

Topology: - It is the physical layout of the workstations, servers, gateways, hubs and cabling. The
physical configuration of network, including the types of cable and connectivity devices used.
There are 6 types of topologies and are as follows.
1. Ring Topology,
2. Bus Topology,
3. Star Topology,
4. Mesh Topology,

Bus topology

A bus topology is a type of network setup where each computer and network device is connected to a
single cable or backbone. Below, is a visual example of a simple computer setup on a network using the
bus topology?

Advantages (benefits) of Linear Bus Topology

1. It is easy to set-up and extend bus network.

 2. Cable length required for this topology is the least compared to other networks.
3. Bus topology costs very less.
4. Linear Bus network is mostly used in small networks. Good for LAN

Disadvantages (Drawbacks) of Linear Bus Topology

1. There is a limit on central cable length and number of nodes that can be connected.
2. Dependency on central cable in this topology has its disadvantages. If the main cable (i.e. bus)
encounters   some problem, whole network breaks down.
3. Proper termination is required to dump signals. Use of terminators is must.
4. It is difficult to detect and troubleshoot fault at individual station.
5. Maintenance costs can get higher with time.
6. Efficiency of Bus network reduces, as the number of devices connected to it increases.
7. It is not suitable for networks with heavy traffic.
8. Security is very low because all the computers receive the sent signal from the source.

Ring topology

Ring topology is a computer network configuration where each network computer and device is
connected to each other forming a large circle (or similar shape). Each packet is sent around the ring
until it reaches its final destination. Today, the ring topology is seldom used. Below is a visual example
of a simple computer setup on a network using a ring topology?

Advantages of Ring Topology

1. This type of network topology is very organized. Each node gets to send the data when it
receives an   empty token. This helps to reduces chances of collision. Also in ring topology
all the traffic flows in only one direction at very high speed.
2. Even when the load on the network increases, its performance is better than that of Bus
topology.
3. There is no need for network server to control the connectivity between workstations.
4. Additional components do not affect the performance of network.
 5. Each computer has equal access to resources.

Disadvantages of Ring Topology

1. Each packet of data must pass through all the computers between source and destination.
This makes it slower than Star topology.
2. If one workstation or port goes down, the entire network gets affected.
3. Network is highly dependent on the wire which connects different components.
4. MAU’s and network cards are expensive as compared to Ethernet cards and hubs.

Star topology

Alternatively referred to as a star network, a star topology is one of the most common network setups
where each of the devices and computers on a network connect to a central hub. A major disadvantage
of this network topology is that if the central hub fails, all computers connected to that hub would be
disconnected. Below is a visual example of a simple computer setup on a network using the star
topology?

Star Topology Advantages

• A Star Network Topology is very easy to manage because of its simplicity in functionality.
• The problems can be easily located logically in a Star Topology and therefore is easy to troubleshoot
also.
• The Star Topology is very simple in format so it is very easy to expand on the Star Topology.

Star Topology Disadvantages

• The Star Topology is fully dependent on the hub and the entire working of the network depends on the
hub or the switch.
• If there are many nodes and the cable is long then the network may slow down.

Mesh topology
A network setup where each computer and network device is interconnected with one another, allowing
for most transmissions to be distributed, even if one of the connections goes down. This topology is not
commonly used for most computer networks as it is difficult and expensive to have redundant
connection to every computer. However, this topology is commonly used for wireless networks.

Advantages of Mesh topology

1. Data can be transmitted from different devices simultaneously. This topology can
withstand high traffic.
2. Even if one of the components fails there is always an alternative present. So data transfer
doesn’t get affected.
3. Expansion and modification in topology can be done without disrupting other nodes.

Disadvantages of Mesh topology

1. There are high chances of redundancy in many of the network connections.

2. Overall cost of this network is way too high as compared to other network topologies.
3. Set-up and maintenance of this topology is very difficult. Even administration of the
network is tough

Self-Check 1 Written Test

Name________________________________ Date_________________
Instruction: Answer all the questions listed below, if you have some clarifications- feel free to ask your
teacher.
1. Define topology?(1point)
2. Write three types of topology?(3 points)
 3. Define Bus topology and show by diagram?(2 points)
4. Define Ring topology and show by diagram?(2 points)
5. Define Star Topology and show by diagram?(2 points)
6. Define Mesh topology and show by diagram?(2 points)
7. Write advantage of Bus topology?
8. Write advantage of Ring topology?
9. Write advantage of Mash topology?
10. Write advantage of star topology?

INFORMATION SHEET 3
LO4:- Install peripherals to a network
Title: Network Media

What is Network Cabling?

Cable is the medium through which information usually moves from one network device to another.
There are several types of cable which are commonly used with LANs. In some cases, a network will
utilize only one type of cable, other networks will use a variety of cable types. The type of cable chosen
for a network is related to the network's topology, protocol, and size. Understanding the characteristics
of different types of cable and how they relate to other aspects of a network is necessary for the
development of a successful network.

The following sections discuss the types of cables used in networks and other related topics.

 Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cable

 Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) Cable
 Coaxial Cable
 Fiber Optic Cable

Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cable

Twisted pair cabling comes in two varieties: shielded and unshielded. Unshielded twisted pair (UTP)
is the most popular and is generally the best option for school networks (See fig. 1).

Fig.1. Unshielded twisted pair

The quality of UTP may vary from telephone-grade wire to extremely high-speed cable. The cable has
four pairs of wires inside the jacket. Each pair is twisted with a different number of twists per inch to
help eliminate interference from adjacent pairs and other electrical devices.

Categories of Unshielded Twisted Pair

Category Speed Use
1 1 Mbps Voice Only (Telephone Wire)
2 4 Mbps Local Talk & Telephone (Rarely used)
3 16 Mbps 10BaseT Ethernet
4 20 Mbps Token Ring (Rarely used)
5 100 Mbps (2 pair) 100BaseT Ethernet
1000 Mbps (4 pair) Gigabit Ethernet
5e 1,000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet
6 10,000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet

Unshielded Twisted Pair Connector

The standard connector for unshielded twisted pair cabling is an RJ-45 connector. This is a plastic
connector that looks like a large telephone-style connector (See fig. 2). A slot allows the RJ-45 to be
inserted only one way. RJ stands for Registered Jack, implying that the connector follows a standard
borrowed from the telephone industry. This standard designates which wire goes with each pin inside
the connector.

Fig. 2. RJ-45 connector

Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) Cable

Although UTP cable is the least expensive cable, it may be susceptible to radio and electrical
frequency interference (it should not be too close to electric motors, fluorescent lights, etc.). If you must
place cable in environments with lots of potential interference, or if you must place cable in extremely
sensitive environments that may be susceptible to the electrical current in the UTP, shielded twisted pair
may be the solution. Shielded cables can also help to extend the maximum distance of the cables.
Shielded twisted pair cable is available in three different configurations:

1. Each pair of wires is individually shielded with foil.

2. There is a foil or braid shield inside the jacket covering all wires (as a group).
3. There is a shield around each individual pair, as well as around the entire group of wires
(referred to as double shield twisted pair).

Coaxial Cable

Coaxial cabling has a single copper conductor at its center. A plastic layer provides insulation between
the center conductor and a braided metal shield (See fig. 3). The metal shield helps to block any outside
interference from fluorescent lights, motors, and other computers.

Fig. 3. Coaxial cable

Although coaxial cabling is difficult to install, it is highly resistant to signal interference. In addition, it
can support greater cable lengths between network devices than twisted pair cable. The two types of
coaxial cabling are thick coaxial and thin coaxial.

Thin coaxial cable is also referred to as thin net. 10Base2 refers to the specifications for thin coaxial
cable carrying Ethernet signals. The 2 refers to the approximate maximum segment length being 200
meters. In actual fact the maximum segment length is 185 meters. Thin coaxial cable has been popular
in school networks, especially linear bus networks.

Thick coaxial cable is also referred to as thick net. 10Base5 refers to the specifications for thick coaxial
cable carrying Ethernet signals. The 5 refers to the maximum segment length being 500 meters. Thick
coaxial cable has an extra protective plastic cover that helps keep moisture away from the center
conductor. This makes thick coaxial a great choice when running longer lengths in a linear bus network.
One disadvantage of thick coaxial is that it does not bend easily and is difficult to install.

Coaxial Cable Connectors

The most common type of connector used with coaxial cables is the Bayone-Neill-Concelman (BNC)
connector (See fig. 4). Different types of adapters are available for BNC connectors, including a

 T-connector,
 Barrel connector, and
 Terminator.

Connectors on the cable are the weakest points in any network. To help avoid problems with your
network, always use the BNC connectors that crimp, rather screw, onto the cable.
Fig. 4. BNC connector

Fiber Optic Cable

Fiber optic cabling consists of a center glass core surrounded by several layers of protective materials
(See fig. 5). It transmits light rather than electronic signals eliminating the problem of electrical
interference. This makes it ideal for certain environments that contain a large amount of electrical
interference. It has also made it the standard for connecting networks between buildings, due to its
immunity to the effects of moisture and lighting.

Fiber optic cable has the ability to transmit signals over much longer distances than coaxial and twisted
pair. It also has the capability to carry information at vastly greater speeds. This capacity broadens
communication possibilities to include services such as video conferencing and interactive services. The
cost of fiber optic cabling is comparable to copper cabling; however, it is more difficult to install and
modify. 10BaseF refers to the specifications for fiber optic cable carrying Ethernet signals.

The center core of fiber cables is made from glass or plastic fibers (see fig 5). A plastic coating then
cushions the fiber center, and kevlar fibers help to strengthen the cables and prevent breakage. The outer
insulating jacket made of teflon or PVC.

Fig. 5. Fiber optic cable

There are two common types of fiber cables -- single mode and multimode. Multimode cable has a
larger diameter; however, both cables provide high bandwidth at high speeds. Single mode can provide
more distance, but it is more expensive.

Specification Cable Type

10BaseT Unshielded Twisted Pair
10Base2 Thin Coaxial
10Base5 Thick Coaxial
100BaseT Unshielded Twisted Pair
100BaseFX Fiber Optic
100BaseBX Single mode Fiber
100BaseSX Multimode Fiber
1000BaseT Unshielded Twisted Pair
1000BaseFX Fiber Optic
1000BaseBX Single mode Fiber

Self-Check 1 Written Test

Name________________________________ Date_________________
Instruction: Answer all the questions listed below, if you have some clarifications- feel free to ask your
teacher.
1. Define cabling ?(2pt)

2. Write the three types cable

3. Write two type of Twisted pair cable

4. Write types of coaxial cable

5. Write the two common types of fiber optic cable

INFORMATION SHEET 4

LO4: - Install peripherals to a network

Title: Connecting peripheral to a network

INFORMATION SHEET 1
LO5: - Configure peripheral services
Title: Install required software to configure/manage local area network

 What is a Hub?

A hub is used in a wired network to connect Ethernet cables from a number of devices together. The hub
allows each device to talk to the others. Hubs aren't used in networks with only wireless connections,
since network devices such as routers and adapters communicate directly with one another.

Hubs are such simple devices — they require no configuration, and have no manuals — that their
function is now included in other devices such as routers and modems.  NETGEAR no longer sells
stand-alone hubs.  If you require a stand-alone appliance, use a switch instead.  Switches provide better
performance and features than hubs.
Networking hardware refers to equipment which typically enables computers to network, includes
hardware such as, routers, switches, access points, network interface cards and other hardware devices.
With respect to the modern trend in these technologies, it is important to mention that the most common
kind of hardware used today are copper based Ethernet adapters, which are included in many modern
computer systems.

The importance and the integration of networking hardware in modern devices can be understood better,
as these devices are also included in day to day utilities such as mobile phones, PDAs and even modern
coffee machines.

 Routers
A router is referred to a computer which has the ability to perform such tasks as routing and forwarding
information with use of software and hardware. Routers are regarded to generally contain a specialized
operating system, along with such devises as RAM, NVRAM, flash memory, and one or more processors.

 Switches
According to simple theoretical terms, switches are defined as devices which join multiple computers together,
with better facilities offered than hubs. And hubs can be defined as, small, uncomplicated, economical devices
that join multiple computers, with a lower or basic level of networking facilities.

 Modems
A modem enables a computer to transmit data over long distances using a cable or telephone line. As Computer
data is in digital form, it needs to be converted for transmission over the cable/telephone line, which only
carries analog waves. This task or conversion is facilitated by a modem.

 Network Adapters

This piece of networking hardware is one of the most essential pieces of equipment for any computer
network, since it has the function of providing access between a computer and a network connection.
When considering the theoretical aspects of network adapters, it is common to discuss the importance of
another essential component, the network interface card or NIC.

The term NIC refers to network adapter hardware in the form of a card.
  Network Cables
 Patch Cables - A patch cable connects two network devices
 Ethernet Crossover Cables - A crossover cable directly connects two network devices of the
same type to each other over an Ethernet. Crossover cables are useful for temporary networking
of devices when a network router, switch or hub is not present.
 Fiber Optic Cable - Fiber optic cables carry information using light pulses. These cables are
typically designed for long distance networking use, although they are soon becoming popular
for home use today.

INFORMATION SHEET 5
LO 5 Configure peripheral services
Title: Install required software to configure/manage local area network
Network peripherals

Network Interface Basics

Network interface devices for computers and printers typically take one of three common forms:

 Printed circuit boards (network interface cards or NICs) designed to be installed into an
expansion slot inside the computer or printer.
 Interface devices directly integrated into the circuitry of the computer or printer - i.e. built-in by
the manufacturer.
 External devices which connect to a port on the outside of the computer or printer.

Each node (workstation, file server, or printer) on your network needs a network interface card and/or
connector. The card or connector works together with the network operating system software and
network applications to supply networking capability to the node. Additional wiring and components
connect the nodes to create the LAN.

Most network interface devices are installed inside workstations. There are currently a few exceptions:

 External SCSI (Small Computer Systems Interface) devices for Macintoshes which have no
available internal slots.
 External devices are sometimes needed to convert from one interface type or network type to
another. These are needed for some printers, and in some cases, to convert from one port type to
another, i.e. AUI (Attachment Unit Interface) to RJ-45 interface conversions.

When you install NICs, you should be aware that:

1. Improper grounding or handling of internal components can cause damage to your workstation.
2. If you are installing cards in Windows-based computers, you may need to know the addresses
used by other adapter cards already in the workstations.
Configuring and Customizing Network Software

Workstation Software

Each workstation on your network must have network software installed on it. The software varies
according to platforms and operating systems, but all programs require network-related information such
as IP addresses, gateway addresses, domain name information, and subnet addresses

1. Find out how to set up network software on the Ethernet Connections page.
2. Some of your users may use portable computers and use the same computer at home, at work,
and on the road. If this is the case, they may need to change the network software on the
computer when they change work locations. For example, they may use an Ethernet connection
at work and an EZ-Remote connection at home, which necessitates some changes. Find out how
to switch between Ethernet and EZ-Remote.
3. As part of setting up the network software on workstations, you or your users need to ensure that
the Domain Name Service entries are correct. Refer to Updating Your Computer's DNS
Information for details.

5.1.1 Local peripherals

Network layers and standards OSI 7 layers

Transferring of data between different communication devices is divided into logical layers called
OSI layers, these layers are seven in number. OSI model stands for Open Systems Interconnection,
it was designed by Xerox Corporation and Intel in 1984 and later ISO (International Standard
Organization) standardized it. OSI is logical framework for standards for computer networks and
data communication. OSI model is used as set standards for computer networking world wide. Major
networking protocols are specifically designed keeping OSI model in view.

These layers are as follow

1. Physical layer
2. Data Link layer
3. Network layer
4. Transport layer
5. Session layer
6. Presentation layer
7. Application layer

These layers helps dividing different tasks of communication and transferring data with in the network
into subtasks, that’s how one completes cycle of communications between network(s) is completed.
Each layer completes its tasks independently. These layers are also divided into upper and lower layers.

1. Physical Layer: Layer 1

Physical layer handles all sorts of physical aspects including, networking cables, networking cards/adaptors and
other physical devices require for networking. It defines bit steam on physical media. It is responsible for
providing interfaces between networks and network communication devices.

2. Data Link Layer: Layer 2

This layer takes the data frames or message from the network layers and provides for all their actual
transmission. The data link layers also provide error free delivery of data between the two computers by using
physical layers.

3. Data link layers

- has divided in two sub layers

 Media Access Control (MAC)

MAC sub layers:-communicates with network card and delivers error free delivery between 2
computers

Example of MAC layers are Enter net 802.3 and Token Ring 802.5

Bridges are an example of devices which works at the MAC layers

 Logical link control (LLC)

LLC sub layers: - defines services access points (SAPs) which are used to transfer
information to the upper layers to the OSI Model

4. Network Layer: Layer 3

Network layer is of great importance when it comes to talk about communication between networking
devices. This layer helps in determining the data being transferred between different network devices.
Network layer also translate logical address into actual physical address for example, converting computer
name in to MAC address. The layer is held responsible for controlling the core processes of networking, for
example, routing, managing network and its problem, addressing etc. Router/Switches are the hardware
which work on network layers, if sending devices are unable to break down data into packets similar to
receiving devices then network layer comes in and breakdown the data into smaller unites and then re-
assemble the data at receiving end.

5. Transport Layer: Layer 4

Transport layer handles the delivery of data packets at their respective ends and destinations. It is also
responsible for identifying errors and duplication of data through out with in the network. Once data is
transferred to their respective ends successfully it provides acknowledgement about it and resends the data
on receiving errors during transferring.
 6. Session Layer: Layer 5

Session layer is designed to manage established sessions between two different nodes (users) with in the
network. Session layer is also responsible to establish connection then identifies who and how much data is
to be sent how much time is required for it. Session layers keeps the connection alive, incase if it is
disconnection during the transfer, it re connects and continues the session. Example of session layers can be
Login system or time taking in file transferring between two different users is one session.

7. Presentation Layer: Layer 6

Presentation layers works as interfacing layer between different formats. It present data into similar format
and update the difference of formats among two different systems. It also provide interface between
application data to network data format. It is used for protocol conversions, encryptions, decryptions and
data compressions.

7. Application Layer: Layer 7

This is upfront layer that helps in interfacing for communication and data transfer with in the network. It
also provides support services like transfer services, handles network access, e-mailing, error management
and user application support.
Protocols that can be used in this layer are

o FTP ( file transfer protocol),

o DNS, SNMP, SMTP (emailing),
o FINGER, TELNET, TFTP, BOOTP SMB etc whereas gateway are used for network
devices.

Network peripherals

Network Router

Network router is a device or a piece of software in a computer that forwards and routes data packets
along networks. A network router connects at least two networks, commonly two LANs or WANs or a
LAN and its ISP network. A router is often included as part of a network switch. A router is located at
anywhere one network meets another, including each point-of-presence on the Internet. A router has two
key jobs:

 The router ensures that information doesn't go where it's not needed. This is crucial for keeping
large volumes of data from clogging the network.
 The router makes sure that information does make it to the intended destination.

Routing is a function associated with the Network layer (layer 3) in the Open Systems Interconnection
(OSI) model. Routers use network layer protocol headers, such as IP header where the source and
destination addresses are included and routing tables to determine the best path to forward the packets.
For the communication among routers and decide the best route between any two hosts, routing
protocols such as ICMP are used.  

Network switch

A network switch is a small hardware device that joins multiple computers together within one local
area network (LAN). Technically, network switches operate at layer two (Data Link Layer) of the OSI
model

Network switches appear nearly identical to network hubs, but a switch generally contains more
intelligence (and a slightly higher price tag) than a hub. Unlike hubs, network switches are capable of
inspecting data packets as they are received, determining the source and destination device of each
packet, and forwarding them appropriately. By delivering messages only to the connected device
intended, a network switch conserves network bandwidth and offers generally better performance than a
hub.

Hub - Network Hub (Concentrator / Repeater Hub)

A Network hub is a device which enables more than one computer (host) to interconnect on a network.
They are widely used for creating home, office and other networks.

Hub, sometimes referred to as a concentrator or repeater Hub, refers to a networking component which
acts as a convergence point of a Network, allowing the transfer of data packets.
In its simplest form, a hub works by duplicating the data packets received via one Port, and making it
available to all ports, therefore allowing data sharing between all devices connected to the hub.

A passive hub simply allows the data packets to flow through it,

a manageable hub allows the data transfer to be monitored and the ports to be configured individually.

Types of Hub:

 On the basis of working and the performance networking hub is differentiated into the three
different types. The brief descriptions of these three types are as follows

1. Passive Hub:

The first type of the networking hub is the passive hub. Passive hub does not perform any particular function but
it just behaves like a bridge between the cables of connection and just receives the information and forwards it
without any change in topology.

2. Active Hub:
Second type of the networking hub is the active hub. This type of hub is quite similar to that of the passive hub
but can perform the additional tasks. Active hubs are those hubs that can work as connector between two
regions but also has ability to regenerate the information with the help of strong electrical signals. it is also
called as the multi-port repeater. It helps in the communication and can upgrade the properties of the signals
before delivery.