Page 41 - CA_165_V2.0_C9_Flipbook
P. 41
Advantages of Networking
Sharing of Files: Networking is an effective way to share files among different nodes (connected
computers). For example, in a school, if the result file is stored on a network system, the examination
department, class teachers, and the principal can all share and access the same result file from their own
systems (i.e., nodes).
Sharing of Resources: Networking helps in the sharing of common hardware devices. For example,
a printer can be connected to a computer in a network that can be shared by different nodes that are
connected within the same network.
Delivery of Information: Networking helps in quick delivery of information. In conventional system,
sending letter from one place to another takes several days but one can send the same letter or other
files instantly through a network.
Low cost of data transfer: With the help of a network, data or information gets transferred at a very low
cost. Networking has considerably reduced the cost of transfer of information from one node to another.
Types of Network
Based upon geographical area, networks can be classified into four broad categories:
l PAN l LAN
l MAN l WAN
PAN (Personal Area Netwok)
PAN is a type of network in which nodes are connected
over a very small range (which is about 10 metres) for
personal use only. The common connecting devices
in a personal area network are mobile phones, media
devices, laptops, etc.
The common connecting media used in PAN are Zigbee,
Bluetooth, etc. In PAN, communication speeds goes upto
250 kbps in Zigbee and 24 Mbps in bluetooth.
LAN(Local Area Network)
LAN is a type of network in which nodes are connected
in a local unit or in small geographical area, such as the
offices, various departments of a manufacturing unit,
etc. The common connecting media used in LAN are
cables, Wi-Fi, ethernet, etc. LANs are restricted in size
and are convenient to handle.
In LAN, data communication takes place at a rate of
100–1000 mbps. It is privately owned by an individual
or an organisation and provides the user with an access
to share several common hardware resources, i.e,
computers, terminals, printers, servers, etc.
Basics of Information Technology 39

