SS 3 Week 1

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SS 3 WEEK 1

NETWORKING

Definition of a Network

A computer network often simply referred to as a network, is a collection of


computers and devices interconnected by communications channels that facilitate
communications among users and allows users to share resources.

A computer network allows sharing of resources and information among


interconnected devices.

Network exists for one major reason: to share information and resources.

TYPES OF NETWORK
Networks sizes can range from tiny to very large.

Personal Area Network (PAN): consists of two to five computing


devices. This not very
common term would apply to the network typically found in the home, and
may be based
on wireless technology e.g. Bluetooth..

Local Area Network (LAN): the most common type of network. It


consists of from about
four up to as many as a couple of hundred of computers linked together
with one set of
cables, usually within the same building. Most LANs are controlled by a
central file
server that takes care of network communications, security control and the
storage of data
files. A student computer laboratory typically constitutes one LAN.

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): a network infrastructure linking


various local
businesses within a large city area. This is now almost completely
superseded by the
Internet.

Wide Area Network (WAN): the opposite of the LAN. It links


computers over large
geographical areas. This network usually makes use of the public
telecommunications
network. The widely dispersed Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) network
of a
commercial bank is typically part of the bank’s WAN.

Value-Added Network (VAN): although not relating to size (but it rhymes


with the
others!), it refers to the provision of a network infrastructure service to
other businesses.
The service goes beyond the physical cabling and includes “value-added
services” such as
limited data and transaction processing or message routing. An example
for the banking
industry is the provision of an inter-bank Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT)
and clearing
service, linking the computers of different commercial banks (and,
possibly, retailers)
together.
WLAN: {Wireless wide area network}
WLAN use a high frequency radio technology similar to digital technology.
WLAN also uses spread spectrum technology to enable
communication between multiple devices in a limited area

NETWORK TOPOLOGY

In computer networking, topology refers to the layout of connected devices. There


are two types of network topology, a physical topology and a logical topology.

The physical topology of a network refers to the layout of the cables and networks
devices; and logical topology refers to the method of communication of the
network devices.

Network topologies are categorized into the following basic types:

 Star topology
 Bus topology
 Ring topology

STAR TOPOLOGY

In a star topology network, the network devices are connected to a central point
like a STAR.

The Central point may be a hub, a switch or a router. All the individual network
devices communicate with the central point.

Thus once the hub falls, the whole network is grounded but if any other network
device fails, the network will still be operating without the failed device. Also, the
star topology requires more cables because cables are laid from all the network
devices to the hub.

A star topology is designed with each node (file server, workstations, and
peripherals) connected directly to a central network hub, switch, or concentrator.

Data on a star network passes through the hub, switch, or concentrator before
continuing to its destination. The hub, switch, or concentrator manages and
controls all functions of the network.
It also acts as a repeater for the data flow.

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