Networks Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is a network
Computer network refers to a group of two or more computing devices that are connected by a communication medium allowing the computers to communicate electronically
What are reasons for using networks
communication
Accessing resources such as data information, software, money, other hardware resources
Centralisation of data - data can be stored on one server instead of several devices
Transfer of files-through emails or uploading on websites
Increase productivity-use of network allows people to work and study more productively
Leisure-access to the Internet provides access to large amount of entertainment such as games books and multimedia
What is a node
A computing device on a network
Advantages of connecting to a network
Networks allow people to share resources and expensive devices
Connect individuals located in different places
Increases opportunities for self improvement by providing access to information and knowledge
Disadvantages of connecting to a network
Can expose you to online crime such as identity and credit card theft and scams such as email phishing
Can expose to cyber bullying and abuse especially on social media platforms
Can be addictive and waste large amounts of time
4 types of network
WAN
LAN
HAN
PAN
Personal area network
Covers a very small area
Connect devices within a certain range and if you move outside that range connection can be lost
E.g. wireless speaker, headphones, or wireless devices
 home area network
Network that covers a larger area like your home
for example connecting to a printer anywhere in your house
Local area network
Covers a large area like an office or bigger premises
Computers can be connected using either a wired or wireless connection media and one’s connected the computer computers can share resources, information, transfer files and communicate with each other via email or web based instant messaging channels
Network LEN usually have a limited amount of computer computers connected to them between 2 and 25
Wide area network
Covers a very large area that could include all people in a suburb, city or a country
It is often used to refer to the Internet the world largest WAN
You’re not private but in order to join a WAN you need permission from a company and you get this by paying for a subscription or a mobile network provider like Vodacom or MTN
Network architecture
Refers to the differences in the way that the network is built
2 types of network architecture
P2P and Client server
What happens in a client server network
Computers (nodes) connect to a server and the server makes sure authorised users have access to certain resources
