5. ADVANTAGES OF LAN
expensive hardware can be shared e.g.
laser printer.
users can access the same files.
messages can be sent between users.
a single Internet connection can be shared
among many users.
network software is cheaper than buying
individual packages.
6. WAN
Wide area network.
WAN covers a large geographical area.
Crosses metropolitan, regional, or national
boundaries.
Uses routers and public communications links. e. g.
Internet.
Used to connect LANs and other types of networks
together.
Option for WAN connectivity
1. Leased Line
2. Circuit switching
3. Packet switching
8. ADVANTAGES OF WAN
These are similar to those of LAN's except the scale of
sharing.
Covers a large geographical area so long distance
businesses can connect on the one network.
Shares software and resources with connecting
workstations.
Messages can be sent very quickly to anyone else on
the network.
Share information/files over a larger area.
9. LAN & WAN COMPARISON
LAN WAN
Small area covered Large area covered
Use public Use public
communication links communication links
Usually a low speed Usually fast speed
Uses Wi-Fi, Ethernet Uses optic wires,
cables microwaves, satellites
Networking software differs from software applications in that the software does not perform tasks that end-users can see in the way word processors and spreadsheets do. Instead, networking software operates invisibly in the background, allowing the user to access network resources without the user even knowing the software is operating
A leased line is a service contract between a provider and a customer, provider agrees to deliver a line connecting two or more locations in exchange for a monthly rent (hence the term lease) Private Circuit“1.) there are various nodes used in the network through which the signals are passed from one system to another.2.) number of nodes are available between two devices and hence multiple paths are available to pass a signal.telephony systems.4.) transmission of audio signals and not suitable for data transmission.Packet Switching:the data is sent over the network in the form of packets i.e. a large unit of data items wrapped into a single bigger unit.the packets follows the same path that is defined for them before passing into the network.4.) It is best used for sending data over the network and audio and video signals can also be sent over the network in the form of packets.
