Computer Networks

Computer Networks

By Mr. Anderson

What is a Computer Network?

A computer network consists of two or more computer connected together to communicate with each other and share a resource.

Shared Resources on a Computer Network 

• Printing

• File Storage

• An Internet Connection

• A Web Server

• A Database Server

This is an example of a computer network

Quick Fact

Did you know that you can still share other resources and communicate in a network without an Internet connection?

Two gamers connected to the same network can use the multiplayer LAN feature in a game to play against each other without being connected to the Internet.

Multiple Choice

Complete the statement below

A computer network is where two or more devices are connected together so they can share____

• people

• resources

• cables

Types of Computer Networks

We now look at the various types of networks in technology

Local Area Network (LAN)

A LAN is network is consisting of two or more computers connected together in small geographical area such as a school or small office.

Characteristics of a LAN

• high cost to set up

• may use both wireless and cables

Example of a LAN

Multiple Choice

Question

Two or more computers connected close together in a local area e.g. building or office is called?

• WAN

• LAN

• The Internet

• Virtual Network

Wide Area Network (WAN)

A WAN consists of two or more LANs connected together across large geographical area such as a city or country.

Characteristics of WANs

• used by Internet Service Providers

• used to share information among company branches.

• The Internet is the largest WAN in existence.

Multiple Choice

Complete the statement below

A wide area network (WAN) _____

• connects two or more LANs together

• means Wi-Fi can be used

• is easier to use than a LAN

• connects two or more computers together

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

A MAN is a network with a size greater than LAN but smaller than a WAN. It normally comprises networked interconnections within a city that also offers a connection to the Internet.

Personal Area Network (PAN)

A PAN consists of devices connected very close to each other to share files or communicate.

Characteristics of PAN

• Uses technologies such as Bluetooth, Infrared, NFC or WiFi to connect

• Used by smart devices such as bluetooth headset or smart watch.

• Connects devices wirelessly

Devices Used in a Personal Area Network

Try these Questions!!

Multiple Choice

Canaries Secondary School has computers being used in a number of its buildings within the school compound.

Which network is being used?

• LAN

• WAN

Multiple Choice

What network covers a SMALL geographical area?

• WAN

• JAN

• LAN

• GAN

Multiple Choice

What network covers a LARGE geographical area?

• LAN

• WAN

• BAN

• KAN

Multiple Choice

What type of network is this?

• Star
• Mesh
• LAN
• WAN

Multiple Select

Which technology is used to connect to a smart watch?

• Infrared

• Bluetooth

• WAN

• WiFi

Open Ended

What type of computer network would you use in supermarket and why?