LAN
is a network that connects computers and devices in a limited geographical area such as homes.
WLAN
is a LAN that uses no physical wires. A wireless LAN must have built-in wireless compatibility or the appropriate wireless network card.
WAN
is a network that connects computers and devices from wide geographic areas (such as a city, country or the world) It can be one large network or consist of two or more LANs connected together.
Client/server
On a Client/Server network, one or more computers act as a server (also known as a host computer). All the other computers (also known as clients) on the network request services from the server. The server controls access to the all the resources on the network, which include the hardware, software and central storage areas.
Peer to peer
Peer-to-peer is also known as P2P. It is an inexpensive network that often connects less than 10 computers so it is ideal for small business and home use.
Star network
In this layout, all computers and devices (also known as nodes) link to a central device, which forms a star shape. easy to maintain and nodes can be added or removed with almost no disruption to the network.
Bus network
This network features a single cable (the bus), on which all devices on the network connect to. Bus networks are inexpensive and easy to install. An advantage of this type of network is that devices can be attached and detached at any point along the cable with no disruption. Also, if one device fails, it has no affect on the rest of the network.
Ring network
A Ring Network features a closed loop cable where all devices are arranged along the loop. Data moves in a one way direction traveling from device to device. The network can be disabled if one device along the loop fails. An advantage of a Ring Network is that it can be implemented for networks in large distances however it is more difficult to install
Protocols
Protocols are the set of rules computers follow when communicating across a network. Without them, no information can be transmitted or interpreted.
TCP/IP
TCP/IP is a network standard, that defines how data is routed/transmitted from one end of the network to the other end.
Characteristics of TPI/IP
Packet data transfer
Recovers data:
Flow control:
TCP/IP consists of
HTTP
defines how messages are formatted and transmitted on the World Wide Web
HTTPS
A widely-used communications protocol for secure communication over a computer network.
802.11x wireless
Used over a small geographical area – used on wireless lan technology
Used by mobile devices on a network
Range of frequency bands
802.3 ethernet
uses cables for faster more reliable connectivity
enables efficient delivery of data.
Advantages of ethernet
Disadvantages of ethernet
Firewall
Prevents unauthorised or malicious data packets from reaching the network.
Firewall protects u against
A firewall does not do
If you give permission for other computers to connect to yours.
If it is switched off, disabled or contains many exceptions or open ports.
Personal firewall
Hardware firewall
Network passwords
A network security key or password can help protect your wireless network from this type of unauthorized access.