Topic Research

Networking

Definition & purpose

A network is the practice of transporting and exchanging data between computers over
a shared medium in an information system. It is most commonly used for the purpose of
businesses, schools and even personal use in an individual’s household. (Rouse, 2018)

Advantages

Networking allows instantaneous file & data sharing between nodes (computers) for
better time efficiency. The sharing of network resources such as printers are also made
much easier, all whilst preventing critical data loss as a result of multiple backups.
Networking eases administration, where the administrator once had to install new
software and updates on each individual computer, they can now do so throughout the
network simultaneously. This in turn results in easier maintenance.

Disadvantages

Networking lacks independence, if the main server were to breakdown the system
would become useless. It poses security risks where users can execute harmful activities
that may also lead to instances where stored files are corrupt due to computer viruses
and malware. The network requires an efficient handler who has experience in
administrations and high technical skills that are quite hard to come by. The initial start
up cost is expensive as multiple devices such as routers, switches and servers are
needed. (Regoli, 2015)

Network Topologies for Local Area Networks (LANs)

Topology definition

Refers to the physical or logical layout of a network. It defines the way different nodes
are placed and interconnected with one another. (Techopedia, n.d.)

Wired star – definition, purpose/use

As one of the most common network setups, in this configuration every

node physically connects to the central hub, switch or computer. This
central network device acts as the server and the peripheral devices act
as the clients. (Computer Hope, 2018)

Wireless – definition, purpose/use

Most commonly used in households, this configuration connects all devices to a network
without the need of cables or wires. This allows flexible use of devices that are not
restricted to one place within the network. (Auguste, 2019)

Client Server - definition, purpose/use

Depicts a computer that is specifically designed to server its clients such as other
computers. This server contains data that can be directed to any clients that requests it.
This means a computer may request information, the server will register it and give
back what the client asked for within seconds. (Auguste, 2019)
Peer to Peer definition, purpose/use

In this configuration, every computer acts as its very own server. This allows the user to
share and host file sharing. This topology is commonly used by torrents, where other
computers use an individual computer to download its files. (Auguste, 2019)

Transmission Media

Optic fibre – definition, purpose and transmission rates

An optical fibre consists of flexible and transparent strands of glass that act as a light
pipe to transmit light to the two ends of the fibre. It is used as a medium for
telecommunication and networking. Both single mode and multi-mode optic fibres have
an average transmission rate of 100 Mbits/s. (Techopedia, n.d.) (Optical Fiber
Transmission, n.d.)

Wired – definition, purpose and transmission rates

Data signals are guided along a physical path such as a wire. Some well known wired
transmission media include Twisted Pair Cable, Coaxial cable and fibre optic cable.
(Studyopedia, n.d.)

Wireless – definition, purpose and transmission rates

Wireless transmission is a form of unguided media that involves no physical connection

between two or more devices, instead doing so wirelessly. This is achieved by the
conversion of digital data into wireless signals that are spread all over the frequency
range. (Tutorials Point, n.d.)

References
Auguste, M. (2019). LAN/Networking Topology. LAN Networking.
Computer Hope. (2018, January 24). Star topology. Retrieved from Computer Hope:
https://www.computerhope.com/jargon/s/startopo.htm
Optical Fiber Transmission. (n.d.). Retrieved from Science Direct:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/optical-fiber-transmission
Regoli, N. (2015, August 26). 14 Main Advantages and Disadvantages of Computer
Networking. Retrieved from Green Garage: https://greengarageblog.org/14-main-
advantages-and-disadvantages-of-computer-networking
Rouse, M. (2018, June). Networking (computer). Retrieved from Tech Target:
https://searchnetworking.techtarget.com/definition/networking
Studyopedia. (n.d.). Wired/ Guided Transmission Media. Retrieved from Studyopedia:
https://studyopedia.com/computer-networks/guided-transmission-media/
Techopedia. (n.d.). Network Topology. Retrieved from Techopedia:
https://www.techopedia.com/definition/5538/network-topology
Techopedia. (n.d.). Optical Fiber. Retrieved from Techopedia:
https://www.techopedia.com/definition/8699/optical-fiber
Tutorials Point. (n.d.). DCN - Wireless Transmission. Retrieved from Tutorials Point:
https://www.tutorialspoint.com/data_communication_computer_network/wireless_tra
nsmission.htm