1 - Computer Network Notes
1 - Computer Network Notes
What is a network?
Example resources being shared are: printers, les, or to enable and allow electronic
communications.
There are two main types of network used by organisations and the average person:
An intranet (‘intra’ meaning ‘inside of’) and the internet (‘inter’ meaning ‘between’), you need only
be aware of the characteristics of an intranet for now.
Characteristics of an intranet:
• Used for local users in certain areas or organisations
• Is not open to all
• Used to share les, software, information, and communication only when computers
are linked to this closed network.
• Resource sharing: Resources such as printers, les, scanners, modems, storage, etc can be
shared between computers on the same network which saves space and money.
• Speed: Files can be sent and recovered quickly by making use of a computer network. This
saves time and is more convenient than manual data delivery.
• Cost e ciency: Software licences may be charged per computer. By installing a single case of
software on the server which allows use by connected computers, license fees can be saved
and costs reduced.
• Security: Sensitive les and programs on a network can be password protected (encrypted) and
can also be made available as “read only” which helps to protect unwanted copying of les or
programs.
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Disadvantages of computer networks:
• Server errors (both software or hardware) present the following risks:
• You may be unable to run the application programs
• You are faced with an increased risk of data loss.
• Network failure will result in not being able to access data/peripherals on the network.
• Increased network tra c results in worse network performance, unless the network has been
properly designed.
• Network management becomes more di cult when more computers are added to a network.