Networks

• Computing
• Further Education (Key Stage 5)

Networking

Year 12 

KO: To be-able to identify the different Networks and the concepts associated with Networks.

All 

To know what a 'Network' is and the different types of Networks.

To be-able to describe a Network.

To be-able to identify the different components within a Network.

Most 

To  explain the different Networks that are available.

To be-able to explain the difference between the Networks

To be-able to identify the different network topologies.

Some 

To explain the different topologies which are associated with Networks.

To be-able to explain the different components within a Network.

What is a Network?

Definition of a Network

A network  refers to a group of computers and other devices (such as printers or servers) that are connected together so that they can communicate and share resources, such as files or Internet access.

So, where might we find a 'Network'?

Why do we need a 'Network'?

Research Task

You are going to split up into pairs to research the below components.

NIC (Network Interface Card), Switch, Router, WAP's (Wireless Access Points) , Copper Based Cables, Fibre Optic Cables, Wi-Fi.

What is the component?

What is its function in a Network?

What is a LAN?

A LAN, or Local Area Network, is a computer network that covers a small geographic area, typically within a single building or campus. It is designed to allow computers, printers, and other devices to communicate and share resources with each other. LAN is always a privately owned network environment.

LAN Diagram

Where is a LAN used?

LANs are commonly used in homes, schools, and businesses to enable communication between devices, share files and resources such as printers and scanners, and access the internet. They can be connected using wired or wireless technologies, such as Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi.

How does a LAN work?

In a LAN, all devices are connected to a central hub or switch, which allows them to communicate with each other. This can be set up using a variety of protocols, such as TCP/IP, and can be secured using encryption and authentication methods to ensure that only authorised users can access the network.

What is a WAN?

A WAN, or Wide Area Network, is a computer network that spans a large geographic area, such as a city, country, or even across multiple continents. It is designed to connect multiple local area networks (LANs) and allow devices in different locations to communicate with each other. WAN uses leased lines, which means that the network isn't privately owned.

WAN Diagram

Where is a WAN used?

WANs are typically used by large organisations and businesses with multiple locations or branch offices, as well as by internet service providers (ISPs) to provide internet connectivity to their customers. They use a variety of technologies to connect devices, including leased lines, satellite links, and fibre optic cables.

How does a WAN work?

WANs can be configured in a variety of ways to suit the specific needs of the network, such as using virtual private networks (VPNs) to provide secure remote access to the network, or using cloud-based services to provide network resources and services to users in different locations.

What is a WAN?

What is a LAN?

Client Server 

In a client-server architecture, the server is a centralised system that provides services to multiple clients. The clients communicate with the server to access the resources and services provided by it. This architecture is suitable for applications that require centralised management and control, as well as those that require high scalability and reliability.

Client Server (Diagram)

Peer-to-peer (P2P)

Peer-to-peer (P2P) networking is a computer networking model where two or more computers are connected together directly over a network, without the need for a central server. In a P2P network, each computer can act as both a client and a server, allowing users to share files, resources, and information with each other directly.

The nodes in the network are equal and can act as both clients and servers. Each node can directly communicate with other nodes in the network to share resources and services. This architecture is suitable for applications that require decentralised management and control, as well as those that require high flexibility and resilience.

Peer-to-peer (Diagram)

What is the main difference between client-server and peer-to-peer networks?

1. In client-server, a central server manages resources.
2. Peer-to-peer has a centralized architecture.
3. In peer-to-peer, a central server manages resources.
4. Client-server has a centralized architecture.

What is a Topology?

Network Topologies

In networking, topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of devices in a network. It describes the way in which devices, such as computers, servers, routers, switches, and other network components, are connected to each other and how they communicate and exchange data.

What are the different Topologies?

Star Topology

What is a 'Star' Topology?

In a star topology, devices are connected to a central hub or switch, which acts as a central point of communication. Data is transmitted between devices via the hub or switch, and if one device fails, the rest of the network can still function.

Mesh Topology

What is a 'Mesh' Topology?

In a mesh topology, devices are connected to each other in a complex, interconnected network. Data can be transmitted between devices in multiple paths, making the network highly resilient and fault-tolerant.

What is a Network Topology?

Privately owned network environment

Small geographical area

Large geographical area

WAN

LAN

Leased Lines 

Used at homes

Used in businesses with many sites.

Uses VPN's for secure connectivity.

Can devices communicate directly with each other in a 'Star' topology?

1. No, all communication goes through the central hub or switch
2. Yes, devices can communicate directly with each other
3. Yes, but only if they are connected to the same central hub or switch
4. It depends on the type of devices being used

What is a Peer-to-Peer network?

1. A network where all computers share resources.
2. A network where only one computer shares resources.
3. A network where computers don't share resources.
4. A network where resources are only shared with friends.

What is the advantage of a Mesh Topology?

1. Easy to set up
2. Requires less cabling
3. No single point of failure
4. Highly reliable and fault-tolerant

What is the responsibility of the server in the client server architecture?

1. To provide services to the client.
2. To manage resources and services.
3. To connect multiple devices.
4. To request services from the client.