Computer Networks for UK Business
Networking Guide
Here are some definitions of a few network terms that you
are likely to meet.
LAN (Local Area Network)
A network of computers, typically within a single building.
Usually they share the resources of a single server, or perhaps
a small number of servers each of which specialises in particular
tasks such as e-mail, file storage, and so on.
Network
Usually, two or more computers that are connected together
to make communications easier. There are other sorts of networks
as well, such as telephone networks, rail networks, and so
on. What they have in common is interconnectivity, for the
same basic purpose: communication.
WAN (Wide Area Network)
A network of computers spread over more than one site. Communication
between sites usually happens via the telephone network, using
high-speed technologies such as leased-lines.
Ethernet
A also known as IEEE 802.3, Ethernet is the most commonly-used
standard for networking computers using either coaxial or
twisted-pair cables. The computers compete for access to the
network's resources, so on a busy network it may be necessary
to split the network into segments by using a switch.
Switch
A device for controlling network data traffic by dividing
the network into separate segments.
Equipment Guide
Your network will commonly consist of the following basic
parts. Whether you are buying a single part or a whole network
please call us to find exactly what you need.
Servers and Workstations
Servers will store files centrally and run all the services,
security, sharing and storage for the whole network. Workstations
are the computers which use the network.
Hubs and Switches
These are used to direct and limit network traffic. They
are used to divide your network into logical segments so that
data can reach its destination more efficiently, without getting
in the way of data headed elsewhere. If a network is getting
too busy, an appropriately positioned switch can often sort
the problem out.
Cabling
Most small to medium sized networks these days use category
5 or 5e cable. This is the type of cable that is officially
approved for use with so-called Ethernet networks (the most
common type).
Network Software
To run a network, your computers need some network software.
Typically this will be a suitable version of the Windows(TM)
or Unix operating systems.
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