Research Activity

A. Discuss or explain the following types of computer networks:

A.1 Types of Networks (According to roles of host devices)

Peer to Peer Network

A peer-to-peer network is an information technology (IT) infrastructure allowing two or more computer
systems to connect and share resources without requiring a separate server or server software
Workplaces may set up a P2P network by physically connecting computers into a linked system or
creating a virtual network. 

In a peer-to-peer network, computers on the network are equal, with each workstation providing access
to resources and data. This is a simple type of network where computers are able to communicate with
one another and share what is on or attached to their computer with other users. 

Client-Server Network

A client-server network is a system where one or more computers called clients connect to a central
computer known as server to share or use resources. Each client computer must use an operating
system that allows it to be identified to participate in the network.

In a client-server environment, each computer still holds some resources and files. Other computers can
also access the resources stored in a computer, as in a peer-to-peer scenario. One of the particularities
of a client-server network is that the files and resources are centralized. This means that a computer, the
server, can hold them and other computers can access them. Since the server is always ON, the client
machines can access the files and resources without caring whether a certain computer is ON.

The client/server type of network provides many advantages such as centralized backup, Intranet
capability, Internet monitoring and establish secure connections.

A.2 Types of Networks (According to Geographical Area)

PAN

Personal Area Network is the smallest and most basic network. It’s meant to cover a very small area
typically a single room or building. A PAN is most commonly used for one individual and to connect just
a handful of devices such as a computer, smart phone, and print. network connections can either be
wired or wireless. The most well-known PAN technology is a wireless Bluetooth connection. Wired
connection methods include USB and FireWire.

While devices within a PAN can exchange data with each other, PANs typically do not include a router
and thus do not connect to the Internet directly.
LAN

A local area network is a group of computers and peripheral devices that share a common
communications line or wireless link to a server within a distinct geographic area. A local area network
may serve as few as two or three users in a home office or thousands of users in a corporation's central
office. Regardless of size, a LAN's characteristic is that it connects devices that are in a single, limited
area.

There are two primary types of LAN: wired LANs and wireless LANs. A wired LAN uses switches and
Ethernet cabling to connect endpoints, servers and internet of things (IoT) devices to the corporate
network. For small businesses with only a handful of devices, a wired LAN can consist of a single
unmanaged LAN switch with enough Ethernet ports to interconnect all devices.

On the other hand, a wireless local area network is a wireless distribution method for two or more
devices. WLANs use high-frequency radio waves and often include an access point to the Internet. A
WLAN allows users to move around the coverage area, often a home or small office, while maintaining a
network connection.

WAN

A wide area network is a large computer network that connects groups of computers over large
distances. WANs are often used by large businesses to connect their office networks; each office
typically has its own local area network, or LAN, and these LANs connect via a WAN. These long
connections may be formed in several different ways, including leased lines, VPNs, or IP tunnels

WANs do the same thing as LANs but across a larger area while connecting more devices. Even when
miles apart, a WAN can connect devices together remotely. In fact, the most basic example of a WAN is
the Internet which connects computers and devices worldwide. Since it’s much larger, this type of
network is typically maintained by multiple administrators and ownership is distributed across various
organizations. 

B. What is Network Topology?

Network topology is used to describe the physical and logical structure of a network. It maps the way
different nodes on a network--including switches and routers--are placed and interconnected, as well as
how data flows. Diagramming the locations of endpoints and service requirements helps determine the
best placement for each node to optimize traffic flows. Topologies may define both physical and logical
aspect of the network. Both logical and physical topologies could be same or different in a same
network.
C. Differentiate Physical Topology and Logical Topology and provide an example for each type of
Topology.

A Physical topology explains about how network devices are physically connected or how devices are
actually plugged into each other, for example cables, wireless connectivity and more. It is a diagram
which shows the structure of how devices are connected physically inside a network. It refers to how a
network looks and functions. One of its examples is the Tree Topology, it is the combination of star and
bus topologies. It has multiple access points that are connected to bus topology while others are
connected to their respective access points.

While Logical Topology tells about a network that should be configured for the transfer of information.
This is different from physical topology as it does not explain the physical wiring of a network, but
instead, it describes the flow of data, information, and back, from one system to another and the routes
it takes. One of the examples of Logical Topology is Logical Ring Topology which described as one node is
allowed to transfer data in a network at a time. This is implemented by using a token system so that only
one is allowed at a time.

D. Discuss the Mode of Transmission (Network Communication modes): Simplex, Half-Duplex, and Full-

Duplex Transmission

Simplex Mode

o This transmission mode is not very popular as mainly communications require the two-way
exchange of data. In Simplex mode, the communication is unidirectional, i.e., the
data flow in one direction. A device can only send the data but cannot receive it
or it can receive the data but cannot send the data.

E. Develop a comparison table of Baseband and Broadband Transmission.

Baseband Transmission Broadband Transmission

1. Digital Signal 1. Analog Signal

 2. Frequency division multiplexing is not possible 2. The transmission of data is unidirectional.

3. Baseband is the bi-directional transmission. 3. Signal traveling distance is long.

4. A short-distance signal traveling. 4. Frequency division multiplexing is possible.

5. The entire bandwidth is for single signal 5. Simultaneous transmission of multiple signals
transmission. over different frequencies.
6. Ethernet is using Basebands for LAN. 6. Example: Used to transmit cable TV to
premises.Basebands for LAN.

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Don't forget to list out your SOURCES(Cite your references here):

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/computer-science/peer-to-peer-networks

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/what-is-a-peer-to-peer-network

http://www.functionx.com/networking/Lesson06.htm

https://www.sierraexperts.com/7-types-of-computer-networks-explained

https://www.cloudflare.com/en-gb/learning/network-layer/what-is-a-personal-area-network/

https://www.techtarget.com/searchnetworking/definition/local-area-network-LAN

https://www.techopedia.com/definition/5107/wireless-local-area-network-wlan
https://www.cloudflare.com/en-gb/learning/network-layer/what-is-a-wan/

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/solutions/automation/network-topology.html

https://www.tutorialspoint.com/data_communication_computer_network/
computer_network_topologies.htm

https://www.tutorialspoint.com/what-are-the-differences-between-physical-and-logical-topology

https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/difference-between-broadband-and-baseband-transmission/