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Uci 102 Topic 1 Notes

The document discusses different types of computer networks including peer-to-peer and client-server networks. It describes common network components like servers, clients, and devices that connect them. The document also covers topics like file sharing, printing, and the objectives and advantages of computer networks.

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82 views4 pages

Uci 102 Topic 1 Notes

The document discusses different types of computer networks including peer-to-peer and client-server networks. It describes common network components like servers, clients, and devices that connect them. The document also covers topics like file sharing, printing, and the objectives and advantages of computer networks.

Uploaded by

deety597
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Network

A network is basically an interconnection of various points to make a connected system for the sole
purpose of sharing resources

e.g Road, Telephone, Social

Data Network

A computer network therefore refers to an interconnection of computers and other peripherals by use of
a communication link

Types of Networks

a) Peer to Peer Networks

In a peer-to-peer network, all computers are considered equal; they all have the same abilities to use the
resources available on the network. Peer-to-peer networks are designed primarily for small to medium
local area networks.

Strength (Setup Cost is low, simple to manage)

Weaknesses (Decentralized, Low security)

b) Client/Server Networks

Client/server network operating systems allow the network to centralize functions and applications in one
or more dedicated servers.

Advantages (Centralized, Scalability, Flexibility, Interoperability, Accessibility)

Disadvantages (Cost, maintenance, Dependence one server)

Server Types
A sever in a network is dedicated to perform some specific task in support of other computers on the
network. One server may perform all these tasks, or a separate server may be dedicated to each task.

Common server types

1. File server
2. Print server
3. Application server
4. Message server
5. Database server

File Server

It offers services that allow network users to share files with network .File servers , users can exchange,
read, write and manage shared files and the data contained in them. They are designed specifically to
support the file services for a network.

The file servers include:

a. File transfer
b. File storage
c. File update synchronization
d. File archiving

File Transfer

Networks offer file transfer services by typically transferring files between clients and servers. This calls
for file security. Every network operating systems has its own level of file security. Higher level use
passwords to control system access, File attributes to limit file usage and encryption schemes to prevent
data from being obtained by unauthorized individuals.

File Update Synchronization

It involves keeping all the files up to date. It ensures that changes made to a file are organized in
chronological order in which they actually took place and that files are properly updated. File
synchronization is usually an added option or an upgrade in most network operating systems

File Archiving

This is the process of backing up files on offline storage devices such as tapes or optical disks.

Print Server

A print server on a network will offer the following advantages:

 Allow user to share printers


 Allow users to place the printer where convenient not just near individual computer
 Achieve better performance by using high -speed network data transfer and print queues.
 Allow user to share network fax services.
 Cuts cost by allowing shared access to printing devices.

Network operating systems offers print queues, which are special storage, are where print jobs are
stored and then sent to the printer in an organized fashion. The print jobs are stored in the queue and
then forwarded to the printer when the printer has finished the jobs scheduled ahead of it. At times jobs
may be printed in the order of priority according top other criteria

Network Processing Modes


Distributed networking

In a distributed networking each machine is capable of operating independently. The network is used for
the easier sharing of data.

Centralized Networking

Centralized networks are used in mainframe configurations where the network client devices are actually
dump terminals where all function are done on the server

Collaborative networking

This is where in a busy network having several servers, the server can share their processing
capabilities (if situation demands due to one/more servers being overwhelmed)

Objectives of Networking

 Sharing
 Backup
 Communication
 Security

Advantages of Networks

 Cost
 Security
 Collaboration
 Speed
 Resource sharing

Challenges of setting networks

 Initial costs
 administration/Personnel
 Breakdowns

Network Components/Devices

 Clients
 Server
 NIC
 Media
 Repeater
 Hubs
 Bridges
 Switches
 Routers
 BRouters
 Gateway
 Software
 Users

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