LEARNING AREA 3 : COMPUTER NETWORK & COMMUNICATION

3.1  Basic Concepts of Computer Networks and Communications

Definition

• Define computer networks.
• Define communications.

Importance of Computer Network

• State the importance of computer networks and communications

Types of Networks

• Define types of computer networks:

• Local Area Network (LAN)
• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
• Wide Area Network (WAN)

• Differentiate between the three types of computer networks.

Network Architecture

• Define two types of network architecture:

• Client/Server 
• Peer-to-Peer

Network Topology

• State three types of network topologies:

• bus
• ring
• star 

• State three types of network topologies:

• bus
• ring
• star 

• Differentiate between the three types of network topology.

Protocol

• Define Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) as a protocol to facilitate communication over computer network.

Internet, Intranet, Extranet

• Describe the types of network  communications technology:

• Internet
• Intranet 
• Extranet

3.2  Hardware Requirements

Devices

• Identify the devices needed in computer network communication :

• Network Interface Card (NIC)
• Wireless Network Interface Card
• Modem (internal and external)
• Hub / Switch
• Router
• Wireless Access Point

• State the functions of the following:

• Network Interface Card (NIC)
• Wireless Network Interface Card
• Modem (internal and external)
• Hub / Switch
• Router 
• Wireless Access Point

Medium

• Identify various types of cables such as Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP), Shielded Twisted Pair (STP), Coaxial and Fibre Optic Cable.
• Identify various types of wireless transmission media such as infrared, radio wave and satellite.

3.3 Software Requirements 

Server Software

• Identify various types of cables such as Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP), Shielded Twisted Pair (STP), Coaxial and Fibre Optic Cable.
• Identify various types of wireless transmission media such as infrared, radio wave and satellite.

Client Software

• State the functions of  various client software.

3.4  Setting Network  Facilities

Installation of Network Interface Cards (NIC)

• Insert network interface cards (NIC).
• Install drivers for the NIC.

Cable Crimping and Testing

• Crimp and test UTP cable

• Straight cable
• Crossed cable

• Create awareness of the correct way when crimping a cable.

Configuration and Testing of Network

• Configure  the  workstation to join a Local Area Network :

• Internet Protocol (IP) Address
• Subnet Mask
• Server name

• Test the network connection.

Share Data

• Create a shared folder.

3.5  Current and Future Developments

Latest Development In Networks and Communications

• Describe

• Mobile Computing (specifications, services, frequencies)
• Internet Technology and Services (VOIP, BLOG)
• Types of network (examples: PAN, VPN, WLAN, WIMAX)