North Ridge Lyceum

Computing Basic 6 Term:3

Topic:

Network Over view

 What is a Network?
A Network is a connection of computers in order to share resources.

Reasons for Networking Computers.

1. To share resources: When computers are connected in a network, users gain access to information
on other computers connected to that network.

2. For easy communication: It is easy for users to communicate with one another

3. To save cost: Devices connected to a network can be accessed by all computers in that network

Types of Networks

1. Local Area Network (LAN)

This is a computer network that links devices within a building

2. Wide Area Network (WAN)

This is a computer network in which the computers connected may be far apart. It can cover a region
or nation.

3. Personal Area Network (PAN)

This is a computer network that interconnects electronic devices centered on an individuals workspace

4. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

This is a computer network that interconnects users with computer resources in a geographic region
like a metropolis. It covers a city or big institutions.
 International Network (Internet)
This is a connection of many networks all over the world to form one network.

What is an Intranet?
An intranet is a computer network for sharing information, collaboration tools, operational systems, and
other computing services within an organization

A Local Area Network A Wide Area Network

An International Network
 Devices used for Network connection
1. Modem 3. Router
2. Ethernet cables 4. Computer (Desktop, Laptop etc.)

A Modem

The full meaning of Modem is Modulator – Demodulator.

The function of a modem is to convert analogue signal to
digital signal and digital signal to analogue signal

A Router
A Routers are devices used on a network to direct
network traffic from the source of network to
other destinations which are computers
connected to that network.

An Ethernet Cable
An Ethernet cable is a standard wire that
connects a computer to a network.
 A Computer System
A Computer System in a network stores
information which are shared within a network

Common Terms in Networking

1. Server – A server is a computer in a network which gives network access and resources to other
computers connected to that network.
2. Client – A client is a computer in a network which receives internet access and resources from a server
in a network
3. Download – Download is when a client in a network receives information from a server.
4. Upload – Upload is when a client sends information to a server in a network

The internet

Uses of the internet

5. For sending and receiving information.

6. For entertainment: The internet is a source of entertainment

7. For research: We can use the internet to find information on any topic

8. For advertisement: Goods and services can be advertised in a network thereby making it possible for

users in that network to know about the product.

9. E-commerce: E stands for Electronics whiles Commerce is the act of buying and selling of goods and

services. Users in a network can buy and sell goods and services among themselves.
 Things needed to connect to the internet

1. A Computer

2. A Web browser: A Web browser is software used to access the internet. Examples are MS Internet
Explorer, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox etc.

3. An Internet Service Provider: An Internet service provider is a Telecommunication Company that gives
internet access to computer users examples are MTN, Vodafone etc.

4. An Ethernet cables

5. A Modem

6. A Router
Features of the internet

7. The Internet is not owned by anyone or any country.

8. The Internet contains lots of social vices which can be misleading.

9. There are no policemen on the Internet to arrest offenders.

10. There are dubious people on the Internet who are out to defraud innocent people.
11. The Internet does not have borders.

12. The internet is not free. You have to pay before you are connected.
13. The Internet covers the whole world.
14. The Internet is known as Information Super Highway. This means the Internet is loaded with
information on numerous topics which can be accessed at will.
 Exercise 5

1. Write down one use of the Internet apart from the ones listed in this document.

2. Write down two disadvantages of the Internet you know.

3. What is your view of the internet. Does it have good or bad influence on young people. Give one
reason for your answer.

4. Differentiate between WAN and LAN

5. What is the difference between the function of a Router and a Modem

6. If you are asked to suggest a type of network for your school, which of the networks explained in
this document will you suggest?

7. Which type of network can make it possible to connect with friends and families in foreign
countries?