networks

• Network


  • Connected by a wired medium such as cables, or by a wireless medium such as Wi-Fi
  • A computer or device that is not connected to a network is called a stand-alone
• Devices that can be connected to a network


  • Desktop computers
  • Laptops
  • Smartphones
  • Smartwatches
  • Fitness trackers
  • Car engine management systems
  • Internet-enabled fridges
  • Intelligent personal assistants
  • Media boxes
• Advantages of using networks

  • Software and file sharing
  • Hardware sharing
  • Communication via email, chat, or video
  • Roaming access
• Additional advantages of larger networks

  • Centralised maintenance and updates
  • Centralised security with anti-virus software and firewalls
  • User monitoring
  • Levels of access
• Disadvantages of networks


  • Cost of additional equipment
  • Management by specialist staff
  • Spread of malware
  • Hacking
• What is a network?


  A network is two or more devices connected together that exchange data and share resources.
• What are the two different types of networks?

  • Local Area Networks (LANs)
  • Wide Area Networks (WANs)
• What are the advantages of having a network?


  • Users can share resources like printers and internet connections.
  • Users can access files from any computer on the network.
  • Easier communication via email and social networks.
  • Easy sharing of files and folders.
  • Centralized backups, updates, and security through servers.
• What are the disadvantages of having a network?


  • Increased security risk to data.
  • Malicious software can infiltrate the network.
  • Central point of failure can occur with servers and switches.
  • Network performance can be impacted by the number of users and data.
• What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?

  A LAN is a network that has a small geographical area, typically under 1 mile.
• Who owns the hardware in a Local Area Network (LAN)?

  All of the hardware is owned by the company, organization, or household using it.
• What types of cables are used in a Local Area Network (LAN)?


  LANs use unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable, fibre optic cable, or wireless connections (Wi-Fi).
• What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?


  A WAN is a network that has a large geographical area, typically over 1 mile.
• How are computers connected in a Wide Area Network (WAN)?


  The computers on a WAN are connected via routers.
• Who owns the hardware used to connect networks in a Wide Area Network (WAN)?


  The hardware used to connect the networks is not all owned by the company, organization, or household using it.
• In a scenario where a travel agent has offices 10 miles apart, what type of network would they be using?

  They would be using a Wide Area Network (WAN).
• What is the difference between a LAN and a WAN?

  • LAN: small geographical area (under 1 mile), usually has dedicated infrastructure.
  • WAN: large geographical area (over 1 mile), uses external/shared infrastructure.