Exercise Task 1 ICT – Harry 1. What is a computer network * A group of computers that are interconnected with each other. 2. Describe the benefits of networking computers * It allows PCs to share files and send information back and forth. It also allows PCs to create a server as a means of communication. 3. Describe some of the disadvantages of networking computers * Some of the disadvantages of networking computers is that it spreads viruses across the network and things like network failure, disable the users of the server abilities to do work. Also, problems like slow service and unavoidable cost make networking computers seem kind of unappealing. 4. Describe a LAN * A LAN is when computers are fairly close to one another, in a single office or two buildings that are separated by a road, they can be joined together either by cables or wireless means. 5. Describe a WAN * A WAN is basically the same as a LAN, however spread over a large area. 6. Explain what is meant by peer-to-peer network * Where two or more computers are connected together without needing a file server to be part of the network. 7. Identify the advantages and disadvantages of a peer-to-peer network * The advantage is that it is much easier to set up than a client-server network and it also does not need specialist knowledge. The disadvantage is that ensuring viruses are not introduced to the network is the responsibility of each individual user. 8. Explain what is meant by a client-server network * A client-server network is a type of network that receives information from the host server. 9. Identify the advantages and disadvantages of a client-server network * Advantages include; all files are stored in a central location, network peripherals are controlled centrally, backups and network security is controlled centrally and users can access shared data which is centrally controlled. However, the disadvantages include; a specialist network operating system is needed, the server is expensive to purchase, specialist staff such as a network manager is needed and if any part of the network fails a lot of disruption can occur. 10. What is meant by the term “stand alone computer”? * A computer that isn’t connected to any network and operates by itself. 11. What is meant by the term “workstation”? * A PC intended to be used for technical or scientific applications, commonly used by one person at a time. 12. What is meant by the term “protocol”? * A special set of rules that end points in a telecommunication connection use when PCs communicate. 13. Explain why computers on networks need to follow protocols. * So that PCs can operate properly and function within ethical protocols. 14. List the things that TCP/IP protocol cover * Internet and IP address 15. Find out about at least one other protocol used by computers, for example, HTTP * UDP, (User Datagram Protocol) is an alternative communications protocol to Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), it is used primarily for establishing low-latency and loss tolerating connections between applications on the Internet.