![]() Modern networks almost always have one or more servers which allows centralized management for users and for network resources to which they have access. To users, however, a WAN will not appear to be much different than a LAN.Īdvantages of Installing a School Network It uses multiplexers, bridges, and routers to connect local and metropolitan networks to global communications networks like the Internet. Two users a half-world apart with workstations equipped with microphones and a webcams might teleconference in real time. Using a WAN, schools in Florida can communicate with places like Tokyo in a matter of seconds, without paying enormous phone bills. Dedicated transoceanic cabling or satellite uplinks may be used to connect this type of global network. ![]() Wide Area Networks (WANs) connect networks in larger geographic areas, such as Florida, the United States, or the world. See the Topology, Cabling, and Hardware sections of this tutorial for more information on the configuration of a LAN. Workstations which are stationary (desktops) are also usually connected by a cable to the network, although the cost of wireless adapters has dropped to the point that, when installing workstations in an existing facility with inadequate wiring, it can be easier and less expensive to use wireless for a desktop. Nearly always servers will be connected by cables to the network, because the cable connections remain the fastest. A typical WAP might have the theoretical capacity to connect hundreds or even thousands of wireless users to a network, although practical capacity might be far less. These WAP devices provide a bridge between computers and networks. Wireless access to a wired network is made possible by wireless access points (WAPs). On a single LAN, computers and servers may be connected by cables or wirelessly. Every computer on a network should be appropriately configured for its use. On the other hand, a workstation might not need as much storage or working memory, but might require an expensive display to accommodate the needs of its user. However, the size and speed of the server's processor(s), hard drive, and main memory might add dramatically to the cost of the system. In such cases, it would be common for the servers to operate without a dedicated display or keyboard. For example, a group of servers might be located in a secure area, away from humans, and only accessed through the network. Servers tend to be more powerful than workstations, although configurations are guided by needs. With the advent of the tablet computer, and the touch screen devices such as iPad and iPhone, our definition of workstation is quickly evolving to include those devices, because of their ability to interact with the network and utilize network services. Workstations were traditionally considered a desktop, consisting of a computer, keyboard, display, and mouse, or a laptop, with with integrated keyboard, display, and touchpad. Workstations are called such because they typically do have a human user which interacts with the network through them. ![]() Services provided can include printing and faxing, software hosting, file storage and sharing, messaging, data storage and retrieval, complete access control (security) for the network's resources, and many others. Servers are generally not used by humans directly, but rather run continuously to provide "services" to the other computers (and their human users) on the network. It is generally limited to a geographic area such as a writing lab, school, or building.Ĭomputers connected to a network are broadly categorized as servers or workstations. You may also see references to a Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN), a Wireless LAN (WLAN), or a Wireless WAN (WWAN).Ī Local Area Network (LAN) is a network that is confined to a relatively small area. Two very common types of networks include: The computers on a network may be linked through cables, telephone lines, radio waves, satellites, or infrared light beams. A network consists of two or more computers that are linked in order to share resources (such as printers and CDs), exchange files, or allow electronic communications.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |