11.1.2 Network Types

Overview of Network Types

• Selecting the appropriate network setup is crucial for meeting specific needs and ensuring effective configuration.
• Understanding the roles of networking devices, specifically servers and clients, is essential before choosing a network type.

Network Roles

• Servers provide resources such as files and printing capabilities.
• Clients consume these resources and rely on servers for access.

Peer-to-Peer Networks

• In peer-to-peer networks, each host can function as both a server and a client.
• Sharing files involves one host acting as a server, while others access the shared resources as clients.

Peer-to-Peer Network Advantages

• Simple implementation and cost-effective, utilizing existing infrastructure.
• Requires no special software; configuration is done through the operating system.
• Allows easy sharing of printers and storage without extensive setup.

Peer-to-Peer Network Disadvantages

• Scaling becomes challenging due to lack of centralized control.
• If a host goes offline, shared resources become inaccessible to others.
• Backup management requires accessing each individual computer.
• Increased risk of accidental deletion or alteration of shared files, leading to potential data loss.

Client-Server Networks

• Recommended for larger environments; distinct roles are established for servers and clients.
• Servers manage network resources while clients access them as needed.
• Centralized management simplifies user accounts, permissions, and network issues.

Client-Server Operating Systems

• Client workstations run standard desktop operating systems and must have client software.
• Servers use specialized operating systems focused on providing network resources, not general tasks.

Client-Server Network Advantages

• Highly scalable, accommodating numerous hosts with ease.
• Centralized management streamlines troubleshooting and configuration.

Client-Server Network Disadvantages

• Higher costs associated with server hardware and operating systems.
• Requires careful planning for server tasks and user connectivity.

Network Classifications by Size and Use

• Body Area Network (BAN): Comprises wearable devices like smartwatches and medical implants.
• Personal Area Network (PAN): Connects devices in close proximity, commonly seen with Bluetooth devices.
• Local Area Network (LAN): Connects multiple hosts within a building using wired and wireless technologies.
• Campus Area Network (CAN): Connects multiple LANs within a localized area, such as a college campus.
• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): Integrates several LANs within a city, facilitating local connectivity.
• Wide Area Network (WAN): Geographically extends across cities, connecting multiple networks across vast distances.
• Storage Area Network (SAN): Specialized network providing high-speed access to storage, focused on data protection and fault tolerance.

Conclusion

• An understanding of network components and configurations is vital for planning network setups effectively.
• Familiarity with different networks and their advantages/disadvantages is essential for choosing the right system based on size and use requirements.

This quiz explores various network types and their respective roles in a system setup. It will cover the different classifications of networks, their components, and how to effectively utilize each type in various environments. Understanding these concepts is crucial for proper network configuration.