Network+ Chapter1 - Intro to Networking

A network restricted to a single geographic location. Its purpose is to interconnect workstation computers for the purpose of sharing files and resources. A LAN is typically high speed and cheaper to setup than a WAN.

A WAN is a network that spans more than one geographic location, often connecting separated LANs.

A MAN is confined to a certain geographic area, such as a university campus or city. Almost always bigger than a LAN and usually smaller than or equal to a WAN.

WPAN is a wireless personal area network. WPAN refers to the technologies involved in connecting devices in very close proximity to exchange data or resources.

• Peer to Peer - max of 10
• Client/Server - only limited by server size, network hardware and budget. It can have thousands of connected systems.

• Peer to Peer - Each individual is responsible
• Client/Server - A skilled network admin is often required.

• Peer to Peer - Each individual is responsible
• Client/Server - Security is managed from a central location but a skilled network admin is often required to correctly configure.

• Peer to Peer - Minimal startup cost and easy to configure and setup.
• Client/Server - Requires dedicated equipment and specialized hardware and administration increasing network cost and usually requires skilled staff to setup.

A VPN extends a LAN by establishing a remote connection using a public network such as the internet.

• A client - the computer that initiates the connection
• Server - server authenticates connections from the client
• Access Method - Must be used on an IP based network.
• Protocols - establish, manage, and secure the data over the VPN connection. (PPTP, L2TP)

• Reduced costs - using public internet saves money on dedicated lines.
• Network scalability - Allows an organization to grow its remote client base without having to increase or modify an internet network.
• Reduced support - Using the internet means organizations don't need to employ support personnel to manage VPN infrastuctures.
• Simplified - It's easy for a network admin to add remote clients.

• Security - Although security protocols are used, VPN Administrators must understand data security over public networks to ensure that data is not tampered with or stolen.
• Reliability - Depends on the public network and is not under an organizations direct control.

A group of connected computers that act as if they are on their own network segments.

• Increased security - with logical or virtual boundaries, network segments can be isolated
• Increased performance - Reduces broadcast traffic throughout the network freeing up bandwidth
• Organization - Network users and resources that are linked and communicate frequently can be grouped in a VLAN
• Simplified administration - The network admin's job is easier when moving users between LAN segments, recabling, setting up new stations and reconfiguring new hubs and routers.

• Protocol Based - TCP/IP or IPX
• Port Based
• MAC Address based