Networks; 4.

1
What is a Computer Network?

A network is two or more computers, or other electronic devices, connected together so that
they can exchange data.

A network allows:
– Computers to share files
– Users to message each other
– Share Resources

Network connections between computers are typically created using cables (wires) or via
wireless signals.

Advantages of using Networks

– Easily share files and data.
– Share resources such as printers and Internet connections.
– Communicate with other network users (e-mail, instant messaging, videoconferencing,
etc.)
– Store data centrally (using a file server) for ease of access and back-up.
– Keep all of our settings centrally so we can use any workstation.

Disadvantages of using Networks

– Greater risk of hackers.
– Greater risk of viruses (spreading and disabling network).
– The significant cost of extra equipment.
– When the network is down computers can not be used as standalone computers.
– Print queues can be long.

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻
how a router works and its purpose
– Connects network/computers to the internet
– Connects LANs/networks together
– Transfers data between networks (Receives and Sends Data Packets)
 – Router can connect to devices using cables or wireless signals.
– It stores information about which computer is connected to which
– network

Common Network Devices

A Hub and a Switch both connect a number of computers together to make a LAN (local area
network)

Switch
– Sends specific packets of data to specific computers on the LAN using workstations
unique MAC addresses.
– Normally used in larger networks found in schools, offices etc.
– More secure however more expensive
Hub
– Sends data packets to all the workstations on the network which causes network traffic.
– Only would be suitable for a small
– home networks.
– Poor Security

Switch Ports
– Workstation connect to switch ports. Each Network Card has a unique address
(MACADDRESS) which switch can use to identify a workstation.
Switch Table
– You always start Switch Table with an empty switch table.The switch willlearn each
Workstations MacAddress when it sends a packet of data 4 across the network.
Modems
– Modems convert analogue signals from a telephone line to digital signals which can be
– read by the computer.
– The Modem also converts digital signals back into analogue for transmission over
telephone line.
Network Interface Card
– Network Interface Card (NIC) allows you to connect a device to the network. The NIC will
contain the MAC address which will be used to identify the computer to the network.
Bridge
– A bridge is used to connect two parts of a LAN network together
 – so they function as a single LAN. Two Switches can be connected
– using a the Bridge Device.

Understand the use of WiFi and Bluetooth in networks

WiFi is a wireless networking technology makes it possible to connect devices with a wireless
connection to a network or to a single computer .

Advantages
– Reduced cost of cabling/Safer – won’t trip over wires
– Easier to connect other devices to the network
– Makes the computer portable as long as it’s within range of the wireless access point
Disadvantages
– Limited area of network
– Strength of signal is weaker
– Possible slow data transfer speeds
– Easier to hack into/less secure
– Physical obstacles can interfere with signal/can
– cause disconnection

Bluetooth is a wireless networking technology designed for very short-range connections.

Advantages
– Connecting wireless devices such as mouse, phone, headset to a computer which are
close in proximity.
– Transferring files between devices.
– Printing Wirelessly from a Tablet or Mobile Phone.
Disadvantages
– Very slow data transfer speeds
– Short distance of coverage/limited signal strength
– Greater risk of interception of data/less secure
– Supports a limited number of devices in a network

Methods which can be used to connect computers to networks.

– WiFi: Using WIFI can allow you to connect to the internet from any room in a house without
 – WiFi: Using WIFI can allow you to connect to the internet from any room in a house without
the use of cables.In addition multiple devices can be connected at the same time.

– 3G / 4G: 3G and 4G are used in smart phones to connect wirelessly to Internet. Allows for
access on the move even within areas with no WiFi. 3G and 4G is not affected by rain or
snow as it as a form of satellite communication.

– Satellite: Satellite can be used almost anywhere in the world. Since it connects via
satellites it has better coverage. Its general use is for the internet.

Setting up a Network
Web Browser: To browse the internet.

Email: To send email messages including attachments to other users.

Security:Anti Virus/Spyware software to protect your computer from external threats (Viruses/
Hackers)

Router: To connect your LAN to the Internet (WAN)

Switch/Hub: To connect Network Devices together using cables.

Network Cables: To create physical connections.

Firewall: To keep network secure from external threats.

Servers: To manage network functions such as network security, network file storage, share
resources etc.

Intranets and the Internet

Internet
– Internet is Public (available to all users)
– Internet is network of networks
– Internet is global
– Internet has more information than an intranet
 – Internet has more information than an intranet

Typical uses of an internet would be:

– Viewing web pages
– Sending and receiving e-mail messages
– Sharing files
– Communicating using voice (VOIP)
– and video (video-conferencing)
– Playing multi-player games
– Streaming Video/audio Content
– Online Shopping/Banking

Intranet
– Intranet is within one organisation Private)
– Intranets tend to be policed/managed
– Intranet has an extra layer of security
– Data found in an intranet is likely to be more reliable/relevant than that found on the
Internet

Typical uses of an intranet would be:

– Viewing internal web pages (e.g. company schools, university's etc.)
– Internal e-mail and instant-messaging between workers
– Sharing of internal documents

Accessing the Internet

Device Advantages Disadvantages

Desktop • More portable and • Touch pad may be
smaller in size difficult to use to
compared to desktop navigate webpages.
computers. • Processors are not
Bigger screens as fast as desktop
compared to tablets computers.
and phones.
 as fast as desktop
compared to tablets computers.
and phones.
Desktop • Stable internet • Has to be connected
connection since the to a power supply at
connection is normally all times.
wired. • Not portable.
• Use of input devices Signal strength
including pointing dependent on
devices to make
navigation easier.
Smart phone and • Tablet: More • Signal strength
tablets portable than dependent on
desktops/laptops location.
however less than • Smaller display
phones. screen.
• Mobile: Portable: Not all websites
Easy to carry around designed to be used
and use whilst on the by mobiles/tablets.
move. • Touch screen may
• Mobile: Always likely be difficult to use.
to have a mobile • Limited battery Life.
phone at all times.