NETWORK

A networkis a collection of interconnected devices that can communicate and share resources with each
other. These devices can include computers, servers, switches, routers, and other hardware that
facilitate data exchange..

Components of a Network

1. Devices- Includes computers, servers, printers, and other hardware that participate in the network.

2. Networking Hardware-Devices like routers, switches, and access points that manage and facilitate
data flow within the network.

3. Transmission Media-The physical mediums (e.g., cables, fiber optics, wireless signals) that carry the
data between devices.

4. Protocols-Sets of rules and standards (e.g., TCP/IP, Ethernet) that govern how data is transmitted and
received over the network.

Functions of a Network

1.Communication-Enables devices to exchange information and messages.

2.Resource Sharing-Allows multiple devices to access shared resources, such as files, printers, and
internet connections.

3.Collaboration-Facilitates teamwork and collaboration through shared applications and services.

4.Centralized Management-Provides a framework for managing user access, security, and data storage.

Types of networks

Personal Area Network (PAN)

A Personal Area Network (PAN) is a small-scale network designed for personal devices within a limited
range, typically within a few meters. It is commonly used to connect devices like smartphones, tablets,
laptops, and wearables.

Advantages of PAN

Convenience-Easy to set up and use, allowing for quick connections between devices.

Mobility-: Supports wireless connections, enabling users to move freely within the range.

Low Cost-Typically requires minimal investment in hardware and infrastructure.

Energy Efficiency-Many PAN technologies, especially Bluetooth, are designed for low power
consumption.
Disadvantages of PAN

Limited Range-The small coverage area restricts connectivity to nearby devices.

Lower Data Transfer Rates- Slower speeds compared to LANs and WANs.

Security Risks-PANs can be vulnerable to unauthorized access if not properly secured.

Local Area Network (LAN)

A Local Area Network (LAN) is a network that connects computers and devices within a limited
geographL

ic area, such as a home, office, or school.

Types of LAN

Wired LAN -Uses physical cables (Ethernet) for connections.

Wireless LAN (WLAN)-Uses wireless technology (like Wi-Fi) to connect devices.

Advantages of LAN

-Cost-Effective- Setting up a LAN is generally less expensive than wider area networks.

- High Speed and Performance- LANs offer high-speed data transfer rates.

- Resource Sharing-Devices on a LAN can easily share resources such as files, printers, and internet
connections.

- Easy to Manage- LANs are easier to configure and manage compared to larger networks.

- Security-Greater control over access and security measures within a confined area.

Disadvantages of LAN

- Limited Range-LANs cannot cover large distances without additional equipment.

- Scalability Issues-As the number of devices increases, performance may degrade unless properly
managed.

- Vulnerability- LANs can be susceptible to local attacks if not secured properly.

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

Advantages of MAN

- High-Speed Connectivity-Offers higher speeds than typical broadband internet connections.

- Resource Sharing-Facilitates easy sharing of resources, such as servers and printers, among connected
LANs.

- Scalability-Can be expanded to include additional users and devices as needed.

Disadvantages of MAN

- Limited Coverage-While broader than LANs, MANs do not cover vast distances like WANs.

- Infrastructure Costs-Establishing the necessary infrastructure can be expensive, especially with fiber
optics.

- Maintenance Complexity-Requires technical expertise to manage the network effectively.

- Security Risks-Vulnerable to security threats, necessitating robust security measures.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a telecommunications network that extends over a large geographic
area, often covering cities, countries, or even continents. WANs are used to connect multiple local area
networks (LANs) and are essential for global communication.

Advantages of WAN

- Global Connectivity-Enables communication across vast distances, connecting offices and branches
worldwide.

- Resource Sharing-Facilitates access to centralized resources and applications from remote locations.

- Scalability-Easily expanded to accommodate additional locations or users.

- Redundancy and Reliability-Can implement backup connections to ensure continuous operation.

Disadvantages of WAN

- High Costs-Setting up and maintaining WANs can be expensive due to infrastructure and service fees.

- Complex Management-Requires specialized knowledge to configure and manage effectively.

- Security Risks-Greater exposure to security threats, necessitating robust security measures.

Network Topology

Network Topology refers to the physical arrangement of devices in a network.

1. Bus Topology

- All devices are connected to a single central cable, known as the bus or backbone.

- Data is transmitted in both directions along the bus.

Advantages

- Simplicity- Easy to set up and understand.

- Cost-effective-Requires less cable than other topologies.

- Easy to extend- New devices can be added easily.

Disadvantages

- Single Point of Failure-If the bus fails, the entire network is disrupted.

- Limited cable length-The maximum length of the bus limits the number of devices.

- Performance Issues-Increased traffic can lead to network slowdowns.

2. Star Topology

- All nodes are connected to a central hub or switch.

- The hub acts as a repeater for data flow.

Advantages

-Robustness-If one cable fails, only the connected device is affected.

- Easy Troubleshooting-Problems can be isolated to individual nodes.

- Scalability-New nodes can be added without disrupting the network.

Disadvantages

- Central Point of Failure-If the hub fails, the entire network goes down.
- Higher Cost-More cabling and hardware are required compared to bus topology.

3. Ring Topology

- Each device is connected to two other devices, forming a circular pathway for data.

- Data travels in one direction (unidirectional) or both (bidirectional).

Advantages

- Consistent Performance-Data packets travel at high speeds and in a predictable manner.

- Easy to Identify Faults-Identifying the source of a failure is simpler than in bus topology.

Disadvantages

- Single Point of Failure-A failure in any device or cable can disrupt the network.

- Difficult to Add/Remove Devices-: Changes can require taking down the entire network.

4. Mesh Topology

- Every device is connected to every other device, creating multiple paths for data transfer.

- Can be either full mesh (every device connected to every other) or partial mesh (some devices
connected).

Advantages

- High Reliability- Multiple pathways ensure data can reach its destination even if one link fails.

-Robustness- Suitable for critical applications where uptime is essential.

Disadvantages

- Complexity- Difficult to set up and manage due to the number of connections.

- Cost- Requires significant cabling and hardware resources.

5. Tree Topology

- A hybrid topology that combines characteristics of star and bus topologies.

- Hierarchical structure with a central root node and sub-nodes.

Advantages

- Scalability-Easy to expand by adding new nodes.

Disadvantages

- Dependency on Backbone- If the backbone fails, segments can go down.

- Complex Management-More complex than simpler topologies.

6. Hybrid Topology

- A combination of two or more different topologies.

- Can be designed to meet specific needs of the organization.

Advantages

- Flexibility-Tailored to the specific requirements of the network.

- Efficiency-Can optimize performance based on the strengths of different topologies.

Disadvantages

-Complex Design-Requires careful planning and implementation.

- Higher Costs-Can be more expensive due to the combination of different technologies.