Networking

A network can be defined as two or more computers connected together in such a way that they can share resources. A resource can be: File Folder Printer Disk Drive Anything that exists on a computer

Two Types of Networking Configuration Peer-to-peer Networks

A Peer-to-peer network is a network where the computers act as both workstations/clients and servers Great for small, simple and inexpensive networks Can be implemented on a wide range of operating systems More time consuming to maintain software being used Low levels of security Demands a moderate level of skill to administer the network easy to set up

Client-Server Networks

In this network configuration, a small number of computers are designated as centralized servers and given the task of providing services to a larger number of user machines called clients More expensive to install A variety of operating system can be supported on the client computers, but the servers needs to run an operating system that supports networking Less time consuming to maintain the software being used (most of the maintenance is on the server) High levels of security are supported, all of which are controlled from the server. Such measures prevent the deletion of essential file systems or the changing of settings Demands a high level of IT skills with good working knowledge on a server operating system

Topologies Topology is a way of laying out the network. Topologies can be Physical topologies that describe how the cables are run and Logical Topologies describe how the network messages travels. 1. Bus use a common backbone to connect all devices.

Advantages: Easy to connect a computer or peripheral Requires less cable

Disadvantage: Entire network shuts down if there is a break in the main cable Terminator are required at both end of the backbone cable Difficult to identify the problem if the entire network shuts down

2. Ring each computer connects to two other computers. All messages travel through a ring in the same direction. Its seldom being used this days.

Advantages: Very organize Performance is the same even when the load/data being transferred is increased

Disadvantages If one workstation or port goes down the network goes down Expensive

3. Star star network features a central connection point called a hub node that may be a network hub, switch or a router.

Advantages: Easy to install and wire No disruptions to the network when connecting or removing devices Easy to detect faults and to remove parts

Disadvantages: Requires more cable to length than a linear topology If the hub, switch fails networks fails More expensive than bus topologies

4. Tree (Expanded Star) - A tree topology combines characteristics of bus and star topologies. It consists of groups of star-configured workstations connected to a linear bus backbone cable.

Advantages: Expansion of network is possible and easy Network are divided into segments which can be easily managed and maintained Error detection and correction is easy If one segment is damaged, other segments are not affected

Disadvantages: If the main bus cable breaks the whole network is crippled More segments are added, the maintenance become difficult Scalability of the network depends on the type of cable used

5. Mesh Topology each of the network node, computer and other devices are interconnected to each other. Every node not only sends its own signals but also relays data from other nodes.

Advantages: Data can be transmitted from different devices simultaneously Even if one of the component fails there is always an alternative Expansion and modification in topology can be done without disrupting other nodes

Disadvantages: There are high chances of redundancy of many network connections Over all cost of the network is way too high as compared to other topologies Set-up and maintenance of this topology is very difficult

Classification of Network LAN (Local Area Network) A computer network that spans a relatively small area. Example: Office, room or a building. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) MAN is a high speed network that connects local area networks in a metropolitan area. Example of metropolitan is a city or town WAN (Wide Area Network) WAN is a network that covers a large geographic area (such as a city, country or the world) using communication channels that combines many types of media such as telephone lines, cables and radio waves. Devices for Networking Switches are used to connect multiple devices on the same network within a building or campus. Routers used to connect multiple networks together. It is used to connect to the internet to share internet connection. The router will act as a dispatcher, choosing the best route for your information to travel so that you receive it quickly. They can protect your information from security threats, and can even decide which computers get priority over others. Wired Routers uses wire for connections Wireless Routers does not use wires Access Point wireless connection or distributor only Modem modulator demodulator Wireless Modem used by broadband internet connection Wired Modem uses wires Ethernet Wires How does the internet Works?

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