GCSE Computer Science: Types of Networks

What is a network?

A network is two or more computers connected together for the purpose of sharing resources

What does LAN stand for?

Local Area Network

What does WAN stand for?

Wide Area Network

What does a LAN cover?

Covers a small geographical area located on a single site

What does a WAN cover?

Covers a large geographical area, connecting LANs together

What does a LAN use?

Only internal network components

What does a WAN use?

Uses external hardware and external infrastructure

3 advantages of a LAN

Sharing files is easier, user accounts can be stored centrally, communication methods are cheaper

3 disadvantages of a LAN

Increased security risk to data, malware/viruses spread more easily, increased traffic on the network may slow down the computer

What is a client-server network?

a client server network is managed by a server. Clients send requests to the server, the server processes and responds.

Where are files and software stored in a client server?

centrally

What is a web server?

A computer dedicated to storing web pages securely and delivering them to users when requested

What is a peer to peer network?

Where all devices are equal, connecting directly without a server