2. 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.
3. 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
4. Stand-alone environment
PC 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 environment
Copying files onto disks and giving them to others to
copy onto their computer.
Networking environment
This connecting together of computers and other devices.
(sharing resources)
5.
6.
7.
8. 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 software
Networks make it possible for several people to
share data and peripherals simultaneously.
Elimination of redundant peripherals
9. Centralizing administration and support
Networking 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
12. LANs configuration
1. A local area network is the basic building
block of any computer network
2. A LAN can range from simple (two
computers connected by a cable) to complex
(hundreds of connected computers and
peripherals.)
WANs configuration
1. 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.
15. 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
16. 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
17. 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.
18. 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
