This document defines and describes different types of computer networks. It explains that a local area network (LAN) connects devices within a small geographic area like a building using cables and network interface cards. A wireless local area network (WLAN) uses radio waves instead of cables. The basic components of a network include cables, network interface cards, switches, and operating system software. Networks provide benefits like sharing resources, software, data, and information across connected computers.

1. Computer Application Technology
Topic: Network LAN

2. Lesson Content
• Definition Networks
• LAN & WLAN
• Basic components of computer network
• Network benefits
• Network Topologies

3. Define the term Network
• A computer network is:
 any set of computers or devices
connected
exchange data

4. Different Network Methods are:
• Local area network (LAN),
• Metropolitan area network (MAN)
• Wide area network (WAN)
• Wireless LANs and WANs

5. LAN Network
• Is usually a small network constrained to a small geographic
area.
 An example of a LAN would be a computer network within a building.

6. WLAN Network
• is a wireless distribution
method for two or more
devices
• use high-frequency radio
waves
• often include an access point
to the Internet

7. COMPONENTS OF COMPUTER
NETWORK
• Cables as links between the computers
• A network interfacing card(NIC) on each computer
• Switches
• Software called operating system(OS)

8. NIC

9. Network Switch

10. Network benefits
 Sharing of resources such as printers
 Sharing of expensive software's and database
 Communication from one computer to another computer
 Exchange of data and information among users via network
 Sharing of information over geographically wide areas.

11. Slides Adapted from slide share.
1. Agrawal A (2014). Introduction to computer Network.
2. Habib HJ (2012). Basic concepts of Computer Network and
Communications: Network Topology