Characteristics of LAN, WAN, intranet, and
wireless networks.
LAN stands for Local Area Network. This would be used for
computers that are very close together. You would use this in offices or
schools where most of the computers are close together either on the same floor
or in the same building. LANs are useful when only a few computers need to
communicate with each other, and not necessarily across the Internet. LANs are
simple to setup, and require only an ethernet cable (or sometimes just a USB
cable), and computers with a network card either built in, or attached to the
motherboard. The networking protocol is simple, as the rules of communication
are governed by the computers and the access they have with each other (sharing
rules/rights), and not by another third party.
- Limited geographic operation
- High speed data transfer rate
- Full time connectivity to local services
- Generally lower in cost than a WAN
- Cabling is primary transmission medium
Information found at: http://www.bpsharma.in/eLearning/Networking/Local_Area_Network.htm
WAN stands for Wide Area Network. This would be used for
computers that are far apart. The internet is an example of WAN since it is
global, it reaches everywhere. WANs are more common, as they allow access
beyond the computers locally oriented, and include access to Internet
resources. These are much more complex networks, because more rules regarding
security, access, and privilege are involved. Groups of users are typically
found in WANs, with varying levels of access based on their common needs. WANs
also rely on wired connections between workstations, and may be limited to a
single server across a range of clients, or may include access to Internet
resources outside of the network firewall.
- Lower bandwidth compared to LANs.
- Typically interconnect multiple LANs.
- Exist in an unlimited geographic area
- Some resources, usually data communication equipment, is managed externally to organizations using the WAN
Information found at: http://www.sqa.org.uk/e-learning/HardOSSupp04CD/page_04.htm
An intranet is a
private network created in many businesses so that only the employees have
access. Intranets can be useful for internal communication in a WAN.
Information is shared with only those with intranet access, across a “normal”
Internet Protocol. Group rights and access apply here as well.
Purpose:
Virtually the same as the Internet, but for internal use
only. Services include
- File transfer
- Real time chat
- World Wide Web
- Video and Audio streaming services
In theory every employee could use the Internet to get the
same services. But an Intranet has the following advantages:
- Commercial data is kept secure
- Emails remain private and may also be encrypted
- High bandwidth. No connection limits unlike the Internet
- Reliable. The company will have dedicated IT personnel to keep things running smoothly. No one owns the Internet so there is no 'Quality of Service' guarantee.
http://www.teach-ict.com/as_a2_ict_new/ocr/A2_G063/333_networks_coms/intranet_extranet_internet/miniweb/pg4.htm
Wireless networks can include LANs and WANs. The big
advantage is not needing cables to connect devices. A wireless security
protocol is used in place of, or in addition to group policies. Examples are
WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy), WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access), and WPA2 (Wi-Fi
Protected Access version 2). Wireless technologies include Bluetooth, WI-Fi,
and cellular data (3G, 4G, LTE, WiMax, etc), among others like RF (Radio
Frequency - common radio waves).
Some benefits include:
- Mobility − A wireless network allows users to access information beyond their desk and conduct business from anywhere without having a wire connectivity.
- Reach − Wireless networks enable people to be stay connected and be reachable, regardless of the location they are operating from.
- Simplicity − Wireless networks are easy and fast to deploy in comparison of cabled network. Initial setup cost could be a bit high but other advantages overcome that high cost.
- Maintainability − In a wireless system, you do not have to spend too much cost and time to maintain the network setup.
- Roaming Services − Using a wireless network system, you can provide service any where any time including train, buses, airplanes, etc.
- Texting − Wireless networks provide various services like SMS and MMS.
Information found at:
http://www.tutorialspoint.com/wimax/wireless_introduction.htm
Visualizing networks with graphics makes understanding them
easier!
Image courtesy Wikimedia
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