4.1 Networks

Network

An arrangement of two or more computing devices connected together in order to communicate with each other and share resources.

Stand-alone

A computer or device that is not connected to a network.

Reasons for connecting computers in a network

1. Share data(files)and software

2. Share hardware peripherals(such as printers)

3. Allow communication（such as asking email)

4. Deploy/Update applications

What are the two types of Network?

1. LAN(Local Area Network)

2. WAN(Wide Area Network)

LAN(Local Area Network)

• A network that connects individual devices together over a small geographic area, usually a single building or site.

• Infrastructure is typically owned by one company (for example a school owns the hardware for its own network, a home network work is owned by the household…)

WAN(Wide Area Network)

• A network that connects multiple LANs together over a large geographic area, usually several buildings or sites.

• Infrastructure is often third party.