Computer Networks
What is computer network? A network is two or more computers connected together so that they can exchange/share data.
Computer network advantages and disadvantages
Topologies means 'arrangement'. Computer topology means the arrangement of networks
Types of Computer Networks
Disadvantages
Advantages
- Makes it easier to share files/information
- Sharing resources like printers and internet connections
- Storing data so it will be easier to back up.
- If the network breaks, tasks will be difficult to complete
- Can more easily be attacked by a virus and security threats increase
- Vulnerable to hackers
WAN : Wide area network
LAN : Local area network
Ring Topology
Star Topology
Bus Topology
Mesh Topology
Hybrid Topology
Hybrid topology is an combination of two or more
different topologies to form a resultant topology
It is a long, central cable, the ‘bus’ is used to connect all of the computers together. Each computer has a short cable linking it to the ‘bus’.
In this topology, the computers are arranged in a circle/ 'ring' arrangement.
Each workstation is connected by its own cable directly to the server/hub
In mesh topology each device is connected to every other device on the network through a dedicated point-to-point link in a mesh format.