Computer Networks Uses Features UNIT 11 COMPUTER NETWORKS

Computer Networks Uses Features UNIT 11: COMPUTER NETWORKS ASSIGNMENT 1: P 1 Ekroop Athwal

Introduction Computer network: Computer network is a set of computers connected together for the purpose of sharing resources. In this presentation I am going to describe the features and uses of different computer networks.

Different Types Of Computer Networks LAN • WAN •

LAN is A local area network (LAN) of a computer network that interconnects computers within a limited area such as a residence, school, laboratory, or office building. It spans a relatively small area. Most LANs are confined to a single building or group of buildings, however, one LAN can be connected to other LANs over any distance via telephone lines and radio waves. Most LANs connect workstations and personal computers. Each node (individual computer ) in a LAN has its own CPU with which it executes programs, but it also is able to access data and devices anywhere on the LAN. This means that many users can share expensive devices, such as laser printers, as well as data. Users can also use the LAN to communicate with each other, by sending e-mail or engaging in chat sessions. LANs are capable of transmitting data at very fast rates, much faster than data can be transmitted over a telephone line; but the distances are limited, and there is also a limit on the number of computers that can be attached to a single LAN. Reference: google

WAN is a computer network that spans a relatively large geographical area. Typically, a WAN consists of two or more local-area networks (LANs). Computers connected to a wide-area network are often connected through public networks, such as the telephone system. They can also be connected through leased lines or satellites. WANs are as computer networking technologies used to transmit data over long distances, and between different LANs, MANs and other localised computer networking architectures. WANs are used to connect LANs and other types of networks together, so that users and computers are in one location and can communicate with users and computers in other locations. Many WANs are built for one particular organization and are private. WANs are often built using leased lines. WANs are similar to a banking system, where hundreds of branches in different cities are connected with each other in order to share their official data.

How LAN works in small office and multiusers environment Client-server : It is a system where one or more computers are called clients, connect to a central computer called server to share or use resources. Each clients must use an operating system that allows it to be identified in the network. Peer-to-peer: Peer-to-peer networks are designed to make it as easy as possible to share resources. You can create a peer-to-peer network by simply connecting a few computers together, allowing you to move files from one machine to another.

Benefits of computer networks There are many benefits a computer network can bring to you or your business. Some of the benefits are given below: Ø Internet sharing Ø Resources sharing Ø File sharing Ø Data sharing

File Sharing The Computer files can be stored centrally, so that multiple staff members can work on one single copy. The responsibility can be delegated for instance faxing, mailing and printing, etc. Storing the files in a centralised location can also make the data backup easier, and more reliable. It also has a efficient cost. The main benefits of file sharing would be the convenience factor. A person can have instant access to files that would have been previously difficult to obtain. It is as simple as opening a particular program or going to a certain website. This ability has become very important in the business world. It is a quick and easy way to share files. You can send audio, video and Power. Point files quickly and securely, without requiring customers to download any extra software. And the services are easy to use and highly secure.

Internet Sharing LAN will allow the entire office to access the Internet concurrently, especially when you have a broadband internet connection. This means that everyone can exchange messages, do research and monitor business developments. This clearly proves the benefit of internet access.

Resource Sharing It is a computer resource made available from one host to another hosts on a computer network. It is a piece of information on a computer that can be remotely accessed from another computer. Examples: Data, storage devices, scanner and printers.

Data Sharing Certain applications such as accounting, scheduling, contact management and billing management allow users to setup a central data repository for multiple computer access. When the repository is setup, multiple computers can view and modify the same set of data. It increases work efficiency, allows faster decision making, and let you have a quicker and better view of the status of your business.