Computer communication

Networks

What is a network

• A network is formed when a group of computers are connected together.

• Computers in a Local Area Network (LAN) are fairly close together, generally within one building or a site.

• Computers can be connected together using cabling or using radio transmitters to provide a wireless LAN.

Advantages of networks

• Share and exchange information easily.• Workgroups

– Groups sending data to each other– Work collaboratively– Documents edited by multiple users

Advantages of networks

• Shared Databases– Centralised Databases made possible with

networks– Central server has data – Remote Access through terminals or other

computers

Advantages of networks

• Distributed systems– A system is split up into different parts– Low end computers running each part– Problems divided– No single point of failure

- Resources efficiently located (e.g. localised payroll)

Advantages of networks

• Communications– Sharing data– Emails– VOIP software– Video Conferencing– Social networking

Advantages of networks

• Device Sharing– Printers– Servers – Media, Email, File– Routers – Access to internet– Optical Drives– Backup systems

Advantages of networks

• Security– Auditing – Limiting user access– User profiles

Disadvantages of Networks

• Expertise– Highly technical field setting up a network– Expensive to hire and train right staff– Alternative Options

• SAAS• PAAS• IAAS

Disadvantages of Networks

• Security– Unauthorised access– Viruses can spread quickly round a network– Password maintenance

Disadvantages of Networks

• Wiring– Expensive to buy and install.– Ergonomics of the infrastructure difficult to set

up– Updating hardware