Computer

Networking

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 Computer Networking

Table of Contents
Introduction................................................................................................................................1
Advantages & Disadvantages of Computer Networking.......................................................2

Components of a Network.........................................................................................................4

Types of Networks.....................................................................................................................7
1. LAN - Local Area Network............................................................................................7
2. WAN - Wide Area Network...........................................................................................7
Difference between Local Area Network (LAN) & Wide Area Network (WAN)............8
1. Peer-to-peer networks.....................................................................................................9
2. Client/server networks....................................................................................................9
Difference between Peer-to-Peer Network & Client/Server Network.............................10
I. Topology.......................................................................................................................11
1. Bus topology..........................................................................................................11
2. Ring topology........................................................................................................11
3. Star topology..........................................................................................................12
II. Protocol......................................................................................................................13
Common types of protocols:................................................................................................13
III. Architecture...............................................................................................................14

Wireless Networks...................................................................................................................15
Advantages & Disadvantages of WLAN.............................................................................16

Advantages of Networking in schools/colleges.......................................................................18

 Computer Networking

Introduction
A computer network, often simply referred to as a network, is a collection of computers and
devices connected by communications channels that facilitates communications among users
and allows users to share resources with other users. Networks may be classified according to a
wide variety of characteristics. A computer network allows sharing of resources and
information among devices connected to the network.

Computer networks can be used for several purposes:

 Facilitating Communications
Using a network, people can communicate efficiently and easily via e-mail,
instant messaging, chat rooms, telephone, video telephone calls, and video
conferencing.
 Sharing Hardware
In a networked environment, each computer on a network can access and use
hardware on the network. Suppose several personal computers on a network each
require the use of a laser printer. If the personal computers and a laser printer are
connected to a network, each user can then access the laser printer on the
network, as they need it.
 Sharing files, data and information
In a network environment, any authorized user can access data and information
stored on other computers on the network. The capability of providing access to
data and information on shared storage devices is an important feature of many
networks.
 Sharing Software
Users connected to a network can access application programs on the network.

Fig 1 gives an example of a network in a school comprising of a local area network or LAN
connecting computers with each other, the internet, and various servers.

Access to: File and Print Server

Internet content & learning resources, Scoilnet etc CD or Multimedia Servers
Email communication Printers , Scanners etc
Users
computers
Cache, Proxy,
Filtering, Firewall
Server

School ‘Local Area

Modem or Router
Network’ (LAN)

Other users,
computers

Fig 1: Representation of Network in a school.

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Advantages & Disadvantages of Computer Networking

 Advantages of Computer Networks
Following are some of the advantages of computer networks:

 File Sharing: The major advantage of a computer network is that is allows file
sharing and remote file access. A person sitting at one workstation of a
network can easily see the files present on the other workstation, provided he
is authorized to do so. It saves the time which is wasted in copying a file from
one system to another, by using a storage device. In addition to that, many
people can access or update the information stored in a database, making it up-
to-date and accurate.

 Resource Sharing: Resource sharing is also an important benefit of a

computer network. For example, if there are four people in a family, each
having their own computer, they will require four modems (for the Internet
connection) and four printers, if they want to use the resources at the same
time. A computer network, on the other hand, provides a cheaper alternative
by the provision of resource sharing. In this way, all the four computers can be
interconnected, using a network, and just one modem and printer can
efficiently provide the services to all four members. The facility of shared
folders can also be availed by family members.

 Increased Storage Capacity: As there is more than one computer on a

network which can easily share files, the issue of storage capacity gets
resolved to a great extent. A standalone computer might fall short of storage
memory, but when many computers are on a network, memory of different
computers can be used in such case. One can also design a storage server on
the network in order to have a huge storage capacity.

 Increased Cost Efficiency: There are many softwares available in the market
which are costly and take time for installation. Computer networks resolve this
issue as the software can be stored or installed on a system or a server and can
be used by the different workstations.

 Disadvantages of Computer Networks

Following are some of the major disadvantages of computer networks:

 Security Issues: One of the major drawbacks of computer networks is the

security issues involved. If a computer is a standalone, physical access
becomes necessary for any kind of data theft. However, if a computer is on a
network, a computer hacker can get unauthorized access by using different
tools. In case of big organizations, various network security softwares are used
to prevent the theft of any confidential and classified data.

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 Rapid Spread of Computer Viruses: If any computer system in a network

gets affected by computer virus, there is a possible threat of other systems
getting affected too. Viruses get spread on a network easily because of the
interconnectivity of workstations. Such spread can be dangerous if the
computers have important database which can get corrupted by the virus.

 Expensive Set Up: The initial set up cost of a computer network can be high
depending on the number of computers to be connected. Costly devices like
routers, switches, hubs, etc., can add up to the bills of a person trying to install
a computer network. He will also have to buy NICs (Network Interface Cards)
for each of the workstations, in case they are not inbuilt.

 Dependency on the Main File Server: In case the main File Server of a
computer network breaks down, the system becomes useless. In case of big
networks, the File Server should be a powerful computer, which often makes it
expensive.

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 Computer Networking

Components of a Network

A computer network comprises the following components:

 A minimum of at least 2 computers
 Cables that connect the computers to each other, although wireless communication is
becoming more common (see Advice Sheet 20 for more information)
 A network interface device on each computer (this is called a network interface card
or NIC)
 A ‘Switch’ used to switch the data from one point to another. Hubs are outdated and
are little used for new installations.
 Network operating system software

Structured Cabling
The two most popular types of structured network cabling are twisted-pair (also known as
10BaseT) and thin coax (also known as 10Base2). 10BaseT cabling looks like ordinary
telephone wire, except that it has 8 wires inside instead of 4. Thin coax looks like the copper
coaxial cabling that's often used to connect a Video Recorder to a TV.

10BaseT Cabling
When 10BaseT cabling is used, a strand of cabling is inserted between each computer and a
hub. If you have 5 computers, you'll need 5 cables. Each cable cannot exceed 325 feet in
length. Because the cables from all of the PCs converge at a common point, a 10BaseT
network forms a star configuration.
Fig 4a shows a Cat5e cable, with a standard connector, known as an RJ-45 connector.
Fig 4b shows a standard Cat5e Wall Outlet socket which the cables are connected to.
Fig 4c shows a standard Cat5e Patch Panel Wall Outlet socket which is used to terminate the
cables from various points in the school bank to a central point.
Fig 4d shows a wall mounted cabinet used to house and protect patch panel cables and
connectors.

Fig 4a: Cat5e Cable and a close up of RJ-45 connector

Fig 4b: Cat5e Wall Outlets

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Fig 4c: Cat5e Patch Panel

Fig4d: Wall Mounted Cabinet

10BaseT cabling is available in different grades or categories. Some grades, or "cats", are
required for Fast Ethernet networks, while others are perfectly acceptable for standard
10Mbps networks--and less expensive, too. All new networks use a minimum of standard
unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) Category 5e 10BaseT cabling because it offers a performance
advantage over lower grades.

Network Interface Card (NIC)

A NIC (pronounced 'nick') is also known as a network card. It connects the computer to the
cabling, which in turn links all of the computers on the network together. Each computer on a
network must have a network card. Most modern network cards are 10/100 NICs and can
operate at either 10Mbps or 100Mbps.
Only NICs supporting a minimum of 100Mbps should be used in new installations schools.
Computers with a wireless connection to a network also use a network card (see Advice
Sheet 20 for more information on wireless networking).

Fig 5: Network Interface Cards (NICs)

Hub and Switch

A hub is a device used to connect a PC to the network. The function of a hub is to direct
information around the network, facilitating communication between all connected devices.
However in new installations switches should be used instead of hubs as they are more
effective and provide better performance. A switch, which is often termed a 'smart hub'.
Switches and hubs are technologies or ‘boxes’ to which computers, printers, and other
networking devices are connected. Switches are the more recent technology and the accepted

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way of building today's networks. With switching, each connection gets "dedicated
bandwidth" and can operate at full speed. In contrast, a hub shares bandwidth across multiple
connections such that activity from one PC or server can slow down the effective speed of
other connections on the hub.

Now more affordable than ever, Dual-speed 10/100 autosensing switches are recommended
for all school networks. Schools may want to consider upgrading any hub based networks
with switches to improve network performance – i.e. speed of data on the network.

Fig 6a: An 8 port Hub

Fig 6b: 2 Examples of 24 port Switches

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Types of Networks
There are many categories under which networks can be classified into.

The following types of network are categorized on the basis of the number of systems or
devices that are under the networked area:

1. LAN - Local Area Network

A LAN connects network devices over a relatively short distance. A networked office
building, school, or home usually contains a single LAN, though sometimes one
building will contain a few small LANs (perhaps one per room), and occasionally a
LAN will span a group of nearby buildings. In TCP/IP networking, a LAN is often
but not always implemented as a single IP subnet.

In addition to operating in a limited space, LANs are also typically owned, controlled,
and managed by a single person or organization. They also tend to use certain
connectivity technologies, primarily Ethernet and Token Ring.

2. WAN - Wide Area Network

As the term implies, a WAN spans a large physical distance. The Internet is the
largest WAN, spanning the Earth.

A WAN is a geographically-dispersed collection of LANs. A network device called a

router connects LANs to a WAN. In IP networking, the router maintains both a LAN
address and a WAN address.

A WAN differs from a LAN in several important ways. Most WANs (like the
Internet) are not owned by any one organization but rather exist under collective or
distributed ownership and management. WANs tend to use technology like ATM,
Frame Relay and X.25 for connectivity over the longer distances.

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Local Area Network v/s Wide Area Network

 Local Area Network
(LAN)
•Small networks usually within an
office
•Usually used in office, data and
office resources are shared between
the network workstations
•LAN’s are small networks
•LAN’s do not rely on common
carriers
•LAN’s are faster
•Major focus is sharing of hardware
resources
•Topology is peer-to-peer
•Each client shares its resources
with other workstations in the
network
•Much cheaper to set up as
compared to WAN
 Wide Area Network
(WAN)
•Broader geographic networks
•They are between cities
•LANs collectively can be linked to
create the WAN using routers and
bridges
•WAN’s rely on common carriers
•WAN’s are slower than LAN
•Main focus is on communications
•Topology is client-to-server
•Resources are requested from the
central server
•Much more expensive to set up

Difference between Local Area Network (LAN) & Wide Area Network (WAN)

Table 1: Local Area Network vs Wide Area Network

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Another type of network classification is the following,

When a group of two or more computers are linked together, they can broadly be classified
into two types of networks:

1. Peer-to-peer networks are more commonly implemented where less then ten
computers are involved and where strict security is not necessary. All computers have
the same status, hence the term 'peer', and they communicate with each other on an
equal footing. Files, such as word processing or spreadsheet documents, can be shared
across the network and all the computers on the network can share devices, such as
printers or scanners, which are connected to any one computer.

Peer to Peer
Network

Fig 2: Peer to Peer Networking

2. Client/server networks are more suitable for larger networks. A central

computer, or 'server', acts as the storage location for files and applications shared on
the network. Usually the server is a higher than average performance computer. The
server also controls the network access of the other computers which are referred to as
the 'client' computers. Typically, everybody will have access to use the client
computers for their work but only the network administrator will have access rights to
the server.

File Server

Other equipment

Fig 3: Client - Server Networking

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Peer-to-Peer Networks v/s Client/Server Networks
 Peer-to-Peer Networks
•Easy to set up
•Less expensive to install
•Can be implemented on a wide
range of operating systems
•More time consuming to
maintain the software being used
(as computers must be managed
individually)
•Very low levels of security
supported or none at all. These
can be very cumbersome to set up,
depending on the operating system
being used
•Ideal for networks with less than
10 computers
•Does not require a server
•Demands a moderate level of
skill to administer the network
Difference between Peer-to-Peer Network & Client/Server Network
Table 2: Peer-to-Peer Networks vs Client/Server Networks
Computer Networking
 Client/Server Networks
•More difficult to set up
•More expensive to install
•A variety of operating systems can be
supported on the client computers, but the
server needs to run an operating system that
supports networking
•Less time consuming to maintain the
software being used (as most of the
maintenance is managed from the server)
•High levels of security are supported, all of
which are controlled from the server. Such
measures prevent the deletion of essential
system files or the changing of settings
•No limit to the number of computers that
can be supported by the network
•Requires a server running a server operating
system
•Demands that the network administrator has
a high level of IT skills with a good working
knowledge of a server operating system
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 Computer Networking

In addition to these types, the following characteristics are also used to categorize different
types of networks:

I. Topology
The shape of a local-area network (LAN) or other communications system is known as its
topology. There are three principal topologies used in LANs:-

1. Bus topology: All devices are connected to a central cable, called the bus or
backbone. Bus networks are relatively inexpensive and easy to install for small
networks. Ethernet systems use a bus topology.

 Advantages of bus topology:

 Easy to implement and extend

 Well suited for temporary networks that must be set up in a hurry
 Typically the least cheapest topology to implement
 Failure of one station does not affect others

 Disadvantages of bus topology:

 Difficult to administer/troubleshoot
 Limited cable length and number of stations
 A cable break can disable the entire network; no redundancy
 Maintenance costs may be higher in the long run
 Performance degrades as additional computers are added

2. Ring topology: All devices are connected to one another in the shape of a closed
loop, so that each device is connected directly to two other devices, one on either side
of it. Ring topologies are relatively expensive and difficult to install, but they offer
high bandwidth and can span large distances.

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 Advantages of ring topology:

 Growth of system has minimal impact on performance

 All stations have equal access

 Disadvantages of ring topology:

 Most expensive topology

 Failure of one computer may impact others
 Complex

3. Star topology: All devices are connected to a central hub. Star networks are
relatively easy to install and manage, but bottlenecks can occur because all data must
pass through the hub.

 Advantages of star topology:

 Easy to add new stations

 Easy to monitor and troubleshoot
 Can accommodate different wiring

 Disadvantages of ring topology:

 Failure of hub cripples attached stations

 More cable required

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These topologies can also be mixed. For example, a bus-star network consists of a high-
bandwidth bus, called the backbone, which connects a collection of slower-bandwidth star
segments.

II. Protocol
An agreed-upon format for transmitting data between two devices. The protocol
determines the following:
i. The type of error checking to be used data compression method,
ii. If any how the sending device will indicate that it has finished sending a
message
iii. How the receiving device will indicate that it has received a message.

There are a variety of standard protocols from which programmers can choose. Each
has particular advantages and disadvantages; for example, some are simpler than
others, some are more reliable, and some are faster.

From a user's point of view, the only interesting aspect about protocols is that your
computer or device must support the right ones if you want to communicate with
other computers. The protocol can be implemented either in hardware or in software.

Common types of protocols:

 Internet Protocol
 Transmission Control Protocol
 Hypertext Transfer Protocol
 Post Office Protocol
 File Transfer Protocol

Importance of Protocol

The protocols in human communication are separate rules about appearance, speaking,
listening and understanding. All these rules, also called protocols of conversation, represent
different layers of communication. They work together to help people successfully
communicate. The need for protocols also applies to network devices. Computers have no
way of learning protocols, so network engineers have written rules for communication that
must be strictly followed for successful host-to-host communication. These rules apply to
different layers of sophistication such as which physical connections to use, how hosts listen,

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how to interrupt, how to say good-bye, and in short how to communicate, what language to
use and many others. These rules, or protocols, that work together to ensure successful
communication are grouped into what is known as a protocol suite.

III. Architecture
The term architecture can refer to either hardware or software, or to a combination of
hardware and software. The architecture of a system always defines its broad outlines, and
may define precise mechanisms as well.

An open architecture allows the system to be connected easily to devices and programs made
by other manufacturers. Open architectures use off-the-shelf components and conform to
approved standards. A system with a closed architecture, on the other hand, is one whose
design is proprietary, making it difficult to connect the system to other systems.

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The difference between a topology and an architecture. A topology is concerned with the
physical arrangement of the network components. In contrast, an architecture addresses the
components themselves and how a system is structured (cable access methods, lower level
protocols, topology, etc.). An example of an architecture is 10baseT Ethernet which typically
uses the start topology.

Wireless Networks
The term 'wireless network' refers to two or more computers communicating using standard
network rules or protocols, but without the use of cabling to connect the computers together.
Instead, the computers use wireless radio signals to send information from one to the other. A
wireless local area network (WLAN) consists of two key components: an access point (also
called a base station) and a wireless card. Information can be transmitted between these two
components as long as they are fairly close together (up to 100 metres indoors or 350 metres
outdoors).

Fig 7a: Wireless Access point or Wireless Basestation

Suppliers would need to visit the schools and conduct a site survey. This will determine the
number of base stations you need and the best place(s) to locate them. A site survey will also
enable each supplier to provide you with a detailed quote. It is important to contact a number
of different suppliers as prices, equipment and opinions may vary. When the term 'wireless
network' is used today, it usually refers to a wireless local area network or WLAN. A WLAN
can be installed as the sole network in a school or building. However, it can also be used to
extend an existing wired network to areas where wiring would be too difficult or too
expensive to implement, or to areas located away from the main network or main building.
Wireless networks can be configured to provide the same network functionality as wired
networks, ranging from simple peer-to-peer configurations to large-scale networks
accommodating hundreds of users.

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Fig 7b: Desktop PC Wireless LAN card Fig 7c: Laptop PC Wireless LAN card

 Advantages & Disadvantages of WLAN

Wireless LANs have advantages and disadvantages when compared with wired LANs. A
wireless LAN will make it simple to add or move workstations, and to install access points to
provide connectivity in areas where it is difficult to lay cable. Temporary or semi-permanent
buildings that are in range of an access point can be wirelessly connected to a LAN to give
these buildings connectivity. Where computer labs are used in schools, the computers
(laptops) could be put on a mobile cart and wheeled from classroom to classroom, providing
they are in range of access points. Wired network points would be needed for each of the
access points.

A WLAN has some specific advantages:

 It is easier to add or move workstations

 It is easier to provide connectivity in areas where it is difficult to lay cable

 Installation can be fast and easy and can eliminate the need to pull cable through walls
and ceilings

 Access to the network can be from anywhere in the school within range of an access
point

 Portable or semi-permanent buildings can be connected using a wireless LAN

 Where laptops are used, the ‘computer suite’ can be moved from classroom to
classroom on mobile carts

 While the initial investment required for wireless LAN hardware can be similar to the
cost of wired LAN hardware, installation expenses can be significantly lower

 Where a school is located on more than one site (such as on two sides of a road), it is
possible with directional antennae, to avoid digging trenches under roads to connect
the sites

 In historic buildings where traditional cabling would compromise the façade, a

wireless LAN can avoid drilling holes in walls

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 Long-term cost benefits can be found in dynamic environments requiring frequent

moves and changes

 They allows the possibility of individual pupil allocation of wireless devices that
move around the school with the pupil.

WLANs also have some disadvantages:

 As the number of computers using the network increases, the data transfer rate to each
computer will decrease accordingly

 As standards change, it may be necessary to replace wireless cards and/or access

points

 Lower wireless bandwidth means some applications such as video streaming will be
more effective on a wired LAN

 Security is more difficult to guarantee, and requires configuration

 Devices will only operate at a limited distance from an access point, with the distance
determined by the standard used and buildings and other obstacles between the access
point and the user

 A wired LAN is most likely to be required to provide a backbone to the wireless

LAN; a wireless LAN should be a supplement to a wired LAN and not a complete
solution

 Long-term cost benefits are harder to achieve in static environments that require few
moves and changes

 It is easier to make a wired network ‘future proof’ for high data transfer.

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Advantages of Networking in schools/colleges

 Speed
Networks provide a very rapid method for sharing and transferring files. Without a network, files
are shared by copying them to floppy disks, then carrying or sending the disks from one
computer to another. This method of transferring files in this manner is very time-consuming.

 Cost
The network version of most software programs are available at considerable savings when
compared to buying individually licensed copies. Besides monetary savings, sharing a program
on a network allows for easier upgrading of the program. The changes have to be done only once,
on the file server, instead of on all the individual workstations.

 Centralized Software Management

One of the greatest benefits of installing a network at a school is the fact that all of the software
can be loaded on one computer (the file server). This eliminates that need to spend time and
energy installing updates and tracking files on independent computers throughout the building.

 Resource Sharing
Sharing resources is another area in which a network exceeds stand-alone computers. Most
schools cannot afford enough laser printers, fax machines, modems, scanners, and CD-ROM
players for each computer. However, if these or similar peripherals are added to a network, they
can be shared by many users.

 Flexible Access
School networks allow students to access their files from computers throughout the school.
Students can begin an assignment in their classroom, save part of it on a public access area of the
network, then go to the media center after school to finish their work. Students can also work
cooperatively through the network.

 Security
Files and programs on a network can be designated as "copy inhibit," so that you do not have to
worry about illegal copying of programs. Also, passwords can be established for specific
directories to restrict access to authorized users.

 Main challenges of installing a School Network Costs

Although a network will generally save money over time, the initial costs can be substantial, and
the installation may require the services of a technician.

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 Requires Administrative Time

Proper maintenance of a network requires considerable time and expertise. Many schools have
installed a network, only to find that they did not budget for the necessary administrative support.

 File Server May Fail

Although a file server is no more susceptible to failure than any other computer, when the files
server "goes down," the entire network may come to a halt. When this happens, the entire school
may lose access to necessary programs and files.

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