2. Local Area Networks

Part 0⁣2 of Computer Networking Fundamentals: Local Area Networks

Local Area Networks

At the end of this episode, I will be able to:

1. Describe the components and attributes of a local area network.

Learner Objective: Describe the components and attributes of a local area network

Description: In this episode, the learner will identify the components and attributes of a local area network.

• Introduction to Network Infrastructure
  • Local area networks (LAN)
    • What is a network? - A group of computers, connected to common network links for the purpose of communication and sharing resources.
    • What are LANs? - A network comprising a single geographical region.
    • Components
      • Client workstations
      • Laptops
      • Mobile devices
      • Servers
      • Cabling - bounded transmission media
        • Standardized media
        • Copper or fiber
      • Connectivity or intermediate devices (Access points, switches, routers)
    • Network Models
      • Host-based - a centralized powerful computer performs all storage and processing of data. User inputs are captured from terminals, output is displayed on the terminal.
      • Client/Server - The most popular network model in modern networks, in which computers called clients request services and resources from other computers. Servers are the computers in a client/server network that respond to and provide services based on client requests.
      • Peer-to-peer - a decentralized network model in which every device evenly (peer) shares the various functions of the network (requesting resources and providing resources).