3.4A Types of Computing Networks Notes

Types of Networks

Wired Networks

1. Use physical cables, like copper Ethernet or fiber-optic cables, to connect devices.
2. These networks are known for their reliability and speed, making them a popular choice in offices, schools, and government institutions.
   1. Advantages:
      1. High data transfer speeds.
      2. Minimal interference, ensuring stable connections.
      3. Enhanced security as data travels through physical cables.
   2. Disadvantages:
      1. Limited mobility as devices must stay connected to the cable.
      2. Higher installation costs, especially with fiber-optic infrastructure.

Wireless Networks

1. Use radio waves to transmit data.
2. Do not require the use of cables and are more portable.
3. Devices connect via wireless routers or access points, making these networks highly flexible and accessible.
   1. Advantages:
      1. Mobility as devices can connect anywhere within the network’s range.
      2. Quick and easy setup compared to wired networks.
   2. Disadvantages:
      1. Prone to interference from other wireless devices or physical obstacles.
      2. Slower speeds compared to wired networks, although advancements like Wi-Fi 6 are narrowing this gap.

Cloud Networks

1. Store data and manage networks on remote servers hosted on the internet.
2. They enable scalability and reduce the need for on-site hardware.
   1. Advantages:
      1. Easily scalable to meet changing demands.
      2. Cost-effective as it minimizes the need for extensive infrastructure.
   2. Disadvantages:
      1. Reliant on stable internet connectivity.
      2. Potential security risks if cloud providers lack robust safeguards.

Networks by Size

Personal Area Network (PAN)

1. Connects devices within a very short range, such as a smartphone and a smartwatch.
2. Perfect for personal use.
3. They have very high transmission speeds.

Local Area Network (LAN)

1. Connects devices within a limited area, such as a home, office, or school.
2. Commonly used for sharing resources like printers or internet access.
3. High transmission speeds, but slightly lower than PANs.

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

1. Spans a relatively larger geographical area, connecting multiple LANs.
2. Examples include city-wide public Wi-Fi or networks used by local governments.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

1. Covers vast geographical areas, often connecting multiple cities or countries.
2. The internet is the largest WAN, linking billions of devices worldwide.

Client-Server vs. Peer-to-Peer Networks

Client-Server Networks

1. Data stored on a central server.
2. Client devices request access to it.
3. This model is widely used in businesses and institutions.
   1. Advantages:
      1. Centralized control simplifies resource management and security.
      2. Easier data backups, as all data resides on the server.
   2. Disadvantages:
      1. High setup and maintenance costs.
      2. Vulnerable to a single point of failure as if the server goes down, so does the network.

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Networks

1. Devices share equal responsibility for storing and sharing data.
2. Devices are connected to each other and mutually transmit network data between each other.
3. Decentralized approach, often used for file sharing and online gaming.
   1. Advantages:
      1. No single point of failure.
      2. Cost-effective and easy to set up.
   2. Disadvantages:
      1. Difficult to manage and secure.
      2. Often associated with illegal activities, such as unauthorized file sharing.