Introduction to Computer Networks Introduction to Computer Networks

Introduction to Networking This lesson introduces some basic principles of computer-based networking, discusses advantages of networking, and presents the idea of connecting computers together to form a local area network and a wide area network.

What Is a Network? (1) A system in which a number of independent computers are linked together to share data and peripherals, such as hard disks and printers.A system in which a number of independent computers are linked together to share data and peripherals, such as hard disks and printers. Sharing is the purpose of computer networking.Sharing is the purpose of computer networking. The ability to share information efficiently is what gives computer networking its power and its appeal.The ability to share information efficiently is what gives computer networking its power and its appeal.

What Is a Network? (2) Another way to think of networking is to envision a network as a team.Another way to think of networking is to envision a network as a team. Managing a computer network is like managing a team of people.Managing a computer network is like managing a team of people. Sharing and Managing can be simple and easy or complex.Sharing and Managing can be simple and easy or complex.

What Is a Network? (3) At its most elementary level, a computer network consists of two computers connected to each other by a cable that allows them to share data.At its most elementary level, a computer network consists of two computers connected to each other by a cable that allows them to share data.

Why Use a Computer Network? Networks are needed for:Networks are needed for: Sharing information (or data)Sharing information (or data) Sharing hardware and softwareSharing hardware and software Centralizing administration and supportCentralizing administration and support

Sharing Information (or Data) The ability to share information quickly and inexpensively has proven to be one of the most popular uses of networking technology. ( , scheduling)The ability to share information quickly and inexpensively has proven to be one of the most popular uses of networking technology. ( , scheduling)

Sharing Hardware and Software Networks make it possible for several people to share peripherals simultaneously.Networks make it possible for several people to share peripherals simultaneously.

Centralizing Administration and Support Networking computers can simplify support tasks as well.Networking computers can simplify support tasks as well.

The Two Major Types of Networks: LANs and WANs Computer networks are classified into one of two groups, depending on their size and function.Computer networks are classified into one of two groups, depending on their size and function. A local area network (LAN) is the basic building block of any computer network. The distinguishing feature of a LAN is that it is confined to a limited geographic area. A LAN usually it has a distance limit such as within a building or a campus.A local area network (LAN) is the basic building block of any computer network. The distinguishing feature of a LAN is that it is confined to a limited geographic area. A LAN usually it has a distance limit such as within a building or a campus.

The Two Major Types of Networks: LANs and WANs A wide area network (WAN), on the other hand, has no geographical limit.A wide area network (WAN), on the other hand, has no geographical limit. It can connect computers and other devices on opposite sides of the world. A WAN is made up of a number of interconnected LANs. Perhaps the ultimate WAN is the Internet.It can connect computers and other devices on opposite sides of the world. A WAN is made up of a number of interconnected LANs. Perhaps the ultimate WAN is the Internet.