WJEC A2 IT3 - Networks

Factors that influence the choice of a network

• cost of network
• size of organisation
• how the system will be used
• existing systems
• performance required
• security issues

Costs associated with a network

• network maintenance costs (e.g. upgrades)
• hardware costs (e.g. cables, routers)
• software costs (e.g. network management software)
• costs of third party communication lines (e.g. BT, Virgin)
• training costs
• staffing costs (e.g. network manager)

Security issues to be considered when choosing a network

• access to inappropriate material (e.g. ***********)
• whether users are free to use unlimited words in search engines or whether they are restricted
• keep hackers out (e.g. firewalls)
• payment details protected (e.g. encryption)
• avoid viruses
• restrict staff access to certain files
• block downloading copyright material (e.g. films, music)

Types of networks

• peer-to-peer (P2P)

Each computer has the same status and are able to communicate with each other. Used at home to share files, share printers etc...

• client server

Used for large networks. All computers are not the same status. A server (central computer), network manager is in charge of this. All other computers are called clients.

Advantages of peer-to-peer networks

• cost saving - no server is needed
• no network manager
• easy to set-up
• no reliance on a server if the server breaks down
• lower operating costs - less set-up and maintenance costs
• peer responsibilty

Disadvantagves of peer-to-peer networks

• back-ups cannot be made centrally - users have their own responsibility
• users need more IT knowledge
• poorer security
• only suitable for very small networks with fewer than 15 networked computers typically

Advantages of client-server networks

• security is better - centralised
• centralised data
• back-ups are taken centrally
• faster access to programs and files
• centralised administration - network manager

Disadvantages of client-server networks

• more expensive
• need specialist knowlege for network manager
• software is expensive
• server may break down

The ring topology