Local area

networks

What does LAN stand for? Local Area Network.

A LAN supplies networking capability to a

group of computers close to each other. A LAN

is useful for sharing resources.

WHAT IS A LAN?

PEER TO PEER A peer to peer handle up to 10 computers any more than 10 it starts to slow down. Peer to peer is equal with each other. It is mainly used for small businesses.

CLIENT/SERVERA client

CHARACTERISTICS OF A PEER TO PEER

Cost: A peer to peer is the least expensive to run. For example you can setup a home network for less than ?? ADSL router/modem+2 computers+switch

Performance: It works fine with a small amount of computers – like what you could have at home - but the more you add, the slower it will get.

Size: It connect up to 5-10 computers.

Security: A peer to peer only has the basic features that come with the operating system, for example, XP only allows you to make file shares read only.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A CLIENT/SERVER

Cost:

Performance:

Size:

Security:

WHAT NETWORK COMPONENTS ARE BEST?Peer to Peer Client server

Hub Switch

Modem/Router Router

Network storage

Can be used on both LANs

PCs

Laptops

Mobile devices

Wireless devices

Printer

Cables

Definitions of eachWhat they do on a LANWhy best for each LAN

HUB Does two things – splits the

number of ports into “many” e.g. four.

Also, connects devices you want to share resources e.g. printer.

This hub can connect up to four devices on this network.

For example, a computer and printer could be connected.

This is best for a peer to peer network because it can only take up to 4 devices and is not as clever as a switch.

SWITCH VS ROUTER

Is a better alternative to a hub, its more intelligent and efficient at connecting devices.

You can connect more. Its faster and more secure. When you use a switch, you create a LAN. Switches are good for client/server LANs because

it can have 24 or 48 ports i.e. devices. When you use a router, you connect two LANs or it

can be used to connect users to the internet.

ADVANTAGES & DISADVANTAGES OF CABLING

Coxial

Cat5 – most commonly used at home and in the work place because ? Reliable; Secure ;

Fiber

Speed

Distance

Interference

Cost

CONNECTION TECHNOLOGIES

Wired vs wireless? Why choose to use it at home i.e. convenience, no messy cables etc.

Why use it at work, wireless is less reliable. You need stable constant access to resources. For example Thursday last week the entire school had no internet access. Unpredictable disconnections.