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Network Definitions

By: Bihu Malhotra 10DD

A group of interconnected computers and peripherals that is capable of sharing software and hardware resources between many users. 

Network

Device that is capable of performing its own task, without the need of any other device or component.

Standalone

(local area network) is a group of interlinked computers which can communicate and share resources wirelessly.

LAN

A network that is able to communicate and allow devices such as telephone lines and satellites to work on a larger geographical area than LAN.

WAN

An individual or an organization utilizing the help of a professional(s) such as a lawyer.

Clients

It is a software program that is dedicated to do a specific type of service.

Server

A place where a few programs, files etc. are located on a computer’s server, but are also available to various systems on the client network.

Client Server Network

It is a network which can enable communication services between two individuals.

Peer to Peer Network

A few peripherals can be shared between all workstations, instead of individual computers.

Files and documents can be uploaded on the server, and can be accessed by any workstation.

The transfer of data is much simpler between all users.

Single application packages can be shared between all workstations.

LINK: http://education.mu/forum/index.php?topic=306.0http://computer-networks.blurtit.com/q372184.html4 Advantages of LAN

If one computer receives a virus or a serious fault, it is transferred to the other computers connected to the network.

Networks are difficult to set up and are required to be maintained by technicians.

A powerful/good LAN is compulsory at all times for the network to run.

The workstations are more prone to hacking due to more access points.

LINK: http://education.mu/forum/index.php?topic=306.0http://computer-networks.blurtit.com/q372184.html4 Disadvantages

A cabled LAN is when a wire is connected to the computers in order for them to use the network.

The three types are; - Twisted pair cable: two individual

wires twisted around each other to make one. - Optical fibre cable: made up of

transparent material that carry beams of light.

- Coaxial cable: transmission line for high frequency signals.

Cabled LAN

It is essential for all computers to have LAN interfaces in order for them to work in the network. The port has to be connected to the appropriate socket.

LINK: http://www.ehow.com/about_5443702_lan-network-requirements.html

LAN Interface

It describes the arrangement of systems which are located on a computer network.

LAN Topologies

There are structures for this including;- Star: A central node connected to

the rest and interlinking them together- Ring: Each node is connected to

two other nodes exactly, forming the shape of a ring.

- Line: Nodes arranged in a straight, only linking between the one in front and behind.LINK: http://www.techterms.com/definition/networktopologyLAN Topologies Structure