1.3 - Introduction to Networks including LAN and WAN

A computer that is not connected to a network is called a __________ computer.  All data is store on its hard disk locally.

• Standalone
• Workstation
• Network Node
• LAN

A computer that is connected to a network is called a ___________.

• Stand alone
• Mainframe computer
• Workstation or network node
• Personal computer

Describe a disadvantage of a standalone computer?

• Every standalone computer would need a printer to be able to print.

• File servers can be expensive to buy.

Describe an advantage of  a stand alone computer?

• An advantage of a standalone computer is damage control. For example, if something goes wrong, only the standalone will be affected.

• An advantage of a standalone computer is you can share files and resources

Why do we network computers together?

• So they can share files and resources.

• To have sole use of a machine and avoid bandwidth limitations.

A computer network is ___ connected together.

• One computer
• Two or more
• Three or more
• Four or more

Two or more computers connected close together (under a mile) in an office or building is called?

• WAN

• LAN

• The Internet

• Virtual Network

Two or more computers connected together over a large geographical area (over a mile) What type of network is this?

• LAN

• School Network

• WAN

• The Internet

Describe an advantage of a LAN

• You can save money by sharing peripherals like printers.

• It is limited to a small area.

• Can cover near infinite geographical distance.

• Expensive to setup.

Describe a disadvantage of a LAN

• Site (software) licences are likely to be cheaper than buying several standalone licences.

• Security is good - users cannot see other users' files unlike on stand-alone machines.

• if the main cable fails or gets damaged the whole network will fail

• Purchasing the network cabling and file servers can be expensive.