Types of Networks
What Is a Network?
A network is two or more computers connected together to share resources and communicate. A standalone computer is one not connected to any network, it cannot share files or resources.
Advantages of Networking
| Advantage | Detail |
|---|---|
| File sharing | Users can share documents and data between devices |
| Peripheral sharing | Printers, scanners and internet connections can be shared |
| Remote file access | Users can access their files from any networked device |
| Centralised management | Servers control software updates, security policies and backups |
| Communication | Email, messaging and collaboration tools |
Disadvantages of Networking
| Disadvantage | Detail |
|---|---|
| Security risk | Shared data is more exposed to attack |
| Malware spread | Viruses and worms can propagate across connected devices |
| Server failure | If the central server fails, the entire network may stop working |
| Performance issues | Heavy traffic can slow the network down |
LAN vs WAN
Local Area Network (LAN)
- Covers a small geographical area, a single building, floor or site
- Hardware (cables, switches) is owned by the organisation using it
- Typically uses UTP cables, fibre optic cables or Wi-Fi
- Devices connected by a switch
Wide Area Network (WAN)
- Covers a large geographical area, connects multiple LANs across cities or countries
- Infrastructure between LANs is managed by a telecommunications company
- Uses telephone lines, fibre optic cables or satellite links
- Devices connected by a router
| LAN | WAN | |
|---|---|---|
| Area covered | Small (building/site) | Large (cities/countries) |
| Ownership | Organisation | Telecom provider |
| Connection device | Switch | Router |
| Typical medium | UTP, fibre, Wi-Fi | Phone lines, fibre, satellite |
| Example | School network | The internet |
Network Hardware
| Device | Role |
|---|---|
| Switch | Connects devices within a LAN; sends data only to the intended device (more secure than a hub) |
| Router | Connects different networks together; routes packets between them |
| Wireless Access Point (WAP) | Enables wireless devices to connect to a wired LAN |
| Hub | Older device; broadcasts data to all devices on the network (less secure, less efficient than a switch) |
Home Router
A home router typically combines the functions of a router, switch and wireless access point into a single device. In larger networks, these are separate dedicated devices.
Exam Questions
Q: Describe two advantages of networking computers.
- Users can share files between computers. 2. Peripherals such as printers or an internet connection can be shared across devices.
Q: Explain the difference between a LAN and a WAN.
A LAN covers a small geographical area such as a single building and uses hardware owned by the organisation. A WAN covers a large geographical area, connecting multiple LANs using infrastructure managed by a telecommunications company.
Q: Give two disadvantages of networking.
- Increased security risk because data is shared across the network. 2. Malware and viruses can spread more easily between connected devices.
Exam Tip
Don’t confuse the roles of switch (connects devices within a LAN) and router (connects separate networks). This distinction is frequently tested.