Week 1

Define a computer network.

Discuss advantages of networking

Describe local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN)

Identify the primary difference between a LAN and a WAN.

An openwork fabric; netting

A system of interfacing lines, tracks, or channels

Any interconnected system; for example, two or more computer and/or devices over a certain medium

A system in which a number of independent computers are linked together to share data and peripherals, such as hard disk and printers

Stand-alone environmentPC are powerful tools that can process and manipulate

data quickly, but they do not allow users to share that data efficiently. If others made changes to the document, there was no easy way to merge the changes.

The sneakernet environmentCopying files onto disks and giving them to others to

copy onto their computer.

Networking environmentThis connecting together of computers and other devices.

(sharing resources)

Sharing information (or data)The ability to share information quickly and

inexpensively.

Reduced need to move around

Working on a paperless environment

Sharing hardware and softwareNetworks make it possible for several people to

share data and peripherals simultaneously.

Elimination of redundant peripherals

Centralizing administration and supportNetworking computers can simplify support

tasks as well. Support one version of one OS or application and to set up computers in the same manner than to support many individual and unique systems and setups.

Increase in security

Increase in productivity

Sharing a meeting with Microsoft Outlook

LANs configuration1. A local area network is the basic building

block of any computer network2. A LAN can range from simple (two

computers connected by a cable) to complex (hundreds of connected computers and peripherals.)

WANs configuration1. A wide area network has no geographical

limit. It can connect computers and other devices on opposite sides of the world.

2. A WAN is made up of a number of interconnected LANs. Perhaps the ultimate WAN is the Internet.

NT

Server

TCP/IP

Router

Node

Hub

Legacy

Host

SNA

Novell

Server

IPX/SPX

Client – Server environment◦ Distribution of server load to client terminals

Multimedia has become mainstream◦ Graphics◦ Video combines with audio

More options for high-speed transfer◦ Fiber optic technology◦ Mature satellite technology

Convergence◦ Multi-services over a single technology platform.

Video

Audio

data

Network Server + Network Resources◦ Provide network services and resources

Network Clients◦ User interfaces to the computer network

Connectivity devices◦ Hubs: expand network length/distance. (Usually

4/12 ports; without software)

◦ Switches: regulate network traffic. (Usually 24/48 ports; with software)

◦ Routers: facilitate connection to other networks

The primary reasons for networking computers are to share information, to share hardware and software, and to centralize administration and support.

A local area network (LAN) is the smallest form of a network and is the building block for larger networks.

A wide area network (WAN) is a collection of LANs and has no geographical limitation.

1. What is a computer network?

2. What are three advantages of using a computer network?

3. Give two examples of a LAN configuration

4. Give two examples of a WAN configuration