Introduction To Network Types

INTRODUCTION TO NETWORK TYPES

Research Paper #1

Prepared for

Professor Jewett

Prepared by

Anissa Truitt

COOP

Semester: Spring 2007

The article basically describes the different types of networks. It states "nearly every type of design is referred to as an ¬area network". The main networks discussed are, LAN and WANs. According to the article, these were the original categories of area networks. LAN, which stands for Local Area Network, connects devices over a relatively short distance via a network. WAN, which stands for Wide Area Network, spans over a large physical distance; hence the word "wide".

An example of a LAN can be found within a school, office building or even in a home. The main technologies used in this type of network are Ethernet, and Token Ring. Basically, an Ethernet cable connects each computer to the network via a hub tat is connected to the (ISP) Internet Service Provider, through the router of course. LAN is operated in limited space. Token Ring is the topology used within a LAN network. In a Token Ring, uses a ring topology whereby the data is sent from one machine to the next and so on around the ring until it ends up back where it started. It also uses a token passing protocol which means that a machine can only use the network when it has control of the Token; this ensures that there are no collisions because only one machine can use the network at any given time.

WAN is merely a collection of LANs. The difference between a LAN and a WAN are very simple. A LAN is owned by, controlled and managed by a single organization or person. On the other hand, WANs are not owned by one organization. They exist under collective or distributed management and ownership. Both of the networks can be found within the home. Usually a LAN is connected to a WAN (the internet) through a broadband modem which connects to an ISP. Other well known, more recent networks are WLAN, MAN,