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Computer networks

A computer network consists of two or more connected devices that can exchange data, either wirelessly or through cables. The document outlines the advantages and disadvantages of networks, including resource sharing and security risks, as well as descriptions of networking devices like routers, switches, hubs, modems, and network interface cards. It also discusses Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies, highlighting their benefits and limitations.

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Vicckyblinks Gbesimi Odele
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4 views

Computer networks

A computer network consists of two or more connected devices that can exchange data, either wirelessly or through cables. The document outlines the advantages and disadvantages of networks, including resource sharing and security risks, as well as descriptions of networking devices like routers, switches, hubs, modems, and network interface cards. It also discusses Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technologies, highlighting their benefits and limitations.

Uploaded by

Vicckyblinks Gbesimi Odele
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Computer

networks
What is a computer network?

A computer network is two or more computers, or other electronic


devices connected together so they can exchange data.

Network connections can be wireless or wired (using cables/wires).


ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF
USING NETWORKS

ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES
Greater risk of hackers.
One can:
• Share resources such as printers Greater risk of viruses (spreading and disabling
networks).
and internet connections.
• Easily share files and data. Print queues can be long.
• Communicate with other network
users (via E-mails, instant When the network is down computers cannot be used
messaging, video-conferencing Etc). as standalone computers.

• Keep all settings centrally.


The significant cost of extra equipment.
ROUTERS
A router is a networking device that forwards data packets between
computer networks. Routers perform the traffic directing functions
between networks and on the global internet. Data sent through a
network, such as a web page or email, is in the form of data packets.
COMMON SWITCHES

NETWORK A switch connects devices in a network to each other, enabling them to


talk by exchanging data packets Switches send specific data packets to
ING specific computers on a network using workstations’ unique MAC
addresses. A switch is a ‘’smart device’’ because it can isolate data

DEVICES transmissions to specific devices and so the network is more efficient.


HUBS
A hub is a node that broadcasts data to every computer or Ethernet-
based device connected to it. It is less sophisticated than a switch and is
called a ‘‘dumb device’’ because it cannot isolate data transmissions to
specific devices.
Some other network devices include:
Modems – Modems convert analogue signals from a
telephone lines to digital signals which can be read by
the computer. The modem also converts digital signals
back into analogue for transmission over telephone
lines.

Network Interface Card (NIC)- This allows you to


connect a device to a network. The NIC will contain
the MAC address which will be used to identify the
computer to the network.

Bridges- 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 bridge.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth in Networks
What is Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is a wireless What is Bluetooth?
networking technology Bluetooth is a wireless
makes it possible to connect networking technology
devices with wireless designed for very short range
connection to a network or connections
to a single computer.
Advantages and Disadvantages of
Wi-Fi
ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES
• Reduced cost of cabling . • Limited area of network
• Easier to connect other devices • Strength of signal is weaker
to the network. • Possible slow data transfer
• Makes the computer portable as speeds
long as its within range of • Easier to hack into
wireless access point.
• Physical obstacle interference
Advantages and Disadvantages
of Bluetooth
ADVANTAGES DISADVANTAGES
• Connecting wireless devices such • Very slow data transfer speed
as mouse, phone, headset to a • Short distance of coverage
computer.
• Great risk of interception of data
• Transferring files between
devices • Supports a limited number of
devices in a net work
Question:
List methods which can be used to
connect computers to networks?

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