Networks_Introduction_Lesson

• Techniek
• Middelbare school
• havo
• Leerjaar 4

Networks

Exploring Local and Wide Area Networks

(4.1) Edexcel GCSE Computer Science 

By the end of the lesson your should:

At the end of the lesson you will understand the concepts of LANs and WANs, their differences, and their applications.

 In other words: 

1) Understand why computers are connected to a network

2)Understand different types of networks (LAN, WAN)

What is a network? (give an example)

What do you already know about LANs and WANs?

Why Networks?

• They allow us to live in a connected world. 
• Worldwide communication
• Personal Devices can be networked.
• We can share (lots), files information and data.

Definition of LAN

A Local Area Network (LAN) is a network that connects computers and devices in a limited geographical area, such as a home, school, or office building.

LANs are limited to specific geographical areas.

Agree: LANs are meant for localized connections.

Disagree: LANs can extend beyond geographical boundaries.

Local Area Networks (LAN)

Key Points

• LANs are typically high-speed and provide secure and reliable communication within the defined area.
• Covers a small geographical area located on a single site
• All the hardware for a LAN is (usually) owned by the organisation
• LANs are wired with UTP cable, fibre optic or wireless using Wi-Fi

Definition of WAN

A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a network that covers a broad area, often connecting multiple LANs and other networks across long distances.

The use of WAN technology enables businesses to link geographically dispersed offices and provide centralized access to resources.

Agree: WAN technology facilitates centralized access

Disagree: WAN technology does not support centralized access

Support: WAN technology improves operational efficiency

Oppose: WAN technology does not enhance operational efficiency

Wide Area Network WAN

Key Point's  

• Covers a large geographical area, connecting LANs together
• Infrastructure between LANs is leased from telecommunication companies who own and mange it. 
• WANs are connected with telephone lines, fibre optics or satellite links.

Differences Between LAN and WAN

LANs are confined to a limited area, while WANs cover a larger geographical area and often rely on public infrastructure.

Applications of LAN

LANs are commonly used for sharing resources, such as files and printers, within a small area, and for facilitating local communication.

Applications of WAN

WANs enable organizations to connect geographically dispersed offices, access cloud services, and facilitate internet connectivity across regions.

Conclusion and Recap

Summarize the key differences and applications of LANs and WANs, reinforcing the main learning points of the lesson.

Using the Internet find one image of a device you would see in a LAN.

Scenario 1
What type of network connects computers and devices within the same physical location, such as an office building?

Scenario 2
How do branch offices in different cities connect to share data and collaborate?

Scenario 3
Why might a research station in Antarctica use satellite communication for internet connectivity?

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.