0417 Unit 4 - Network Environments and the use of different devices to connect to the Internet

Advantages of an intranet

Increased security, access rights and usernames and password prevents unauthorised access Enabled secure communication between colleagues Can facilitate collaboration between colleagues Can enhance productivity

Define what the internet is

Interconnected networks which is global. The internet is the infrastructure which is used to transfer data around the world. Including web pages, emails, banking transactions etc

Define what an intranet is

It is an internal network (LAN) which provides services to its users. The Intranet will require users to logon to it to gain access and different features may not be available due to different access rights existing.

Differences between a LAN and a WAN

LAN stands for Local Area Network whereas WAN stands for Wide Area Network A LAN has a small geographical area whereas a WAN is geographically remote (covers a large area) A LAN uses network components owned by the organisation it was created by whereas a WAN equipment is owned telecommunication companies and it is leased. A LAN is a network for a school or business whereas an example of a WAN is the Internet

Disadvantages of using a laptop to access the internet

Less portable than a mobile phone

Disadvantages of using a tablet to access the internet

Not as potable as mobile phone 4G data can cost a lot. Still difficult to view lots of data on the screen

Disadvantages of using a desktop to access the internet

Not portable

Describe the advantages of networking

Peripherals (printers, scanners) can be shared so less are required Files can be accessed from any computer Software can be updated and managed centrally Internet connection can be shared (only one subscription to ISP) Files can be backed-up centrally

Advantages of using the internet

Can be accessed all around the world Enables research due to the wealth of information it holds Allows you to receive international news reports Provides entertainment (movies, gaming, music) Can use it to stay connected with friend and family around the world Use it for shopping

Advantages of using a laptop to access the internet

Can connect to a Wifi network Has high capacity data storage for downloading files

Advantages of using a desktop to access the internet

Has high capacity data storage for downloading files If using a wired connection (Ethernet), it may have a higher bandwidth

What is a WLAN

Wireless Local Area Network Uses wireless technology to transmit data with a LAN Uses Wireless Access Points (WAPs) connected to a wired network

Advantages of using a tablet to access the internet

Portable Can connect to WIFI and some tablets have 4G connectivity Better at taking notes or viewing files than a mobile phone

Advantages of using a mobile phone to access the internet

Portable Increased access using 4G and WIFI networks Can be used to hotspot (tether) to a larger device such as a laptop.

Disadvantages of the Internet

Security threats (hacking, viruses, lack of privacy) Fake news Age-inappropriate content Cyber bullying, Grooming, Trolling Addictions (Gaming, Gambling etc)

Disadvantages of using a mobile phone to access the internet

Small Screen 4G data can cost a lot.

Disadvantages of an Intranet

Users need to keep passwords safe to maintain good security Cost of maintenance Cost of implementation

Disadvantages of networking computer together

Viruses can spread to all connected machines Network components can be expensive If a main network component fails (server or switch), the whole network may not be available May need to employee extra staff to maintain the network (network technicians\manager)