1. Networks

2. Learning Objectives
Understand what a network is and the advantages and disadvantages
Know the difference between wired and wireless networks

3. Networks What is a Network? What hardware do you need to make one?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a network?

4. Networks There are 2 main types of network…
A network is two or more computers connected together so they can communicate which each other.
There are 2 main types of network…

5. Networks: LANs LAN stands for: LOCAL AREA NETWORK
LANs are networks that are found where computers within a building need to communicate.
They are Small and Local!

6. Networks: WANs WAN stands for: WIDE AREA NETWORK
WANs are networks that are found where computers in different areas or countries need to communicate.
They are long range and not local!

7. Networks: WANs How a modem works…
What extra hardware do you need for a WAN network?
Modems : To connect up to a telephone system (instead of cable).
How a modem works…

8. LANs - HW and SW
By the end of this section, you will know and understand the hardware and software involved in making a network

9. File Server - HW Main computer on the network.
More powerful than other computers on the network.
Contains a large amount of RAM and Hard Disk space.
Holds the networks OS e.g. Windows XP
Holds the application software e.g. Microsoft Office Suite.
Stores the user files created on the system.

10. Network Interface Card - HW
Also known as NIC.
Each computer MUST have one of these.
It communicates with the file server and other computers on the network.
an RJ-45 NIC

11. Network Cables - HW
These plug into the back of each computer and link them together.
They go straight into the Network Interface Card inside the computer.
This is an RJ-45 cable, otherwise known as an Ethernet Cable.

12. Switches - HW
A switch is a single connection point for a group of computers.
The switch is then connected to the file server and organises the communication.

13. Wireless Router

14. Phone Line

15. Ethernet

16. Wireless Network

18. WANs HW and SW
By the end of this section, you will know and understand the additional hardware and software involved in making a WAN!

19. Modem - HW Stands for Modulator – Demodulator.
First created to take digital signals from a computer and convert them to analogue so that they can be transmitted down a telephone line.
Speed at which a modem operates will affect the download time of web pages and files.

20. ISP - Internet Service Provider
An ISP sells Internet access to companies and individuals.
It provides web servers which connect to the Internet.
An ISP will provide it’s customers with a wide range of services…
Bandwidth options.
service.
Web Hosting.
Online and Telephone assistance.

21. Browser Software
Browser software allows users to view and use the web pages on the Internet.
Features include:
An Address Bar.
A Navigation Bar.
A Bookmark/Favourites Option.
A Search Engine.
A History Button.
Browser Setting and Internet Options e.g. Filtering.

22. Networks: Some advantages of a network are:
Resources (Hardware and Software) can be shared.
Allows more effective communication between users e.g. via .
Networks are cheaper than “stand-alone PCs.”
Information held on the network can be accessed by all users with authorised access.

23. Networks: Some disadvantages of a network are:
The set-up and maintenance costs can be expensive.
A fault with the network server can cause difficulties with the organisation.
Networks need security measures to restrict access to users.
WANs are vulnerable to hackers and viruses.