NETWORK: A network is a collection of computers connected together.

NETWORKING: is a process of communication between the interconnected devices for the sake of network resources sharing.

Benefits of Networking:



  1. Share resources like hardware , Data etc

  2. Share Software

  3. Sharing of license


Types of Networks:


1) Local Area Network (LAN): Systems connected within the same or limited geographical area is called LAN. A LAN can span 2 kilometers.

Components of LAN:

  1. NIC (Network Interface Card) or Ethernet Card
  2. Cable – Co axial, Twisted Pair cat5 or cat6, Fiber optical

  3. Hubs or Switches.

2) Metropolitan Area Networking: MAN is a combination of LANs or WANS located and connected within the same city.

Components of MAN:


  1. Router

  2. Brouter (Brouter is a combination of bridge or
    router)

  3. ATM Switches

  4. DSL connectivity (DSL – Digital Subscriber Link)
    ex: Star cables


3) Wide Area Networking (WAN): Interconnection of LANs or MANs located within the same geographical area or different area it depends on telecommunication services.


  1. Router
  2. Brouter (Brouter is a combination of bridge or
    router)

  3. ATM Switches

  4. DSL connectivity (DSL – Digital Subscriber Link)
    ex: Star cables