Computer knowledge

In office and schools, computers are usually connected to

make a computer network.

Networks are expensive to run because they need a

trained person to fix problems.

The cost is worth it because a network has many

advantages.

What are Networks for?

The “invisible” Network

•A school network can have
30 or more network
devices.
•It can have 10 kilometres
of cable running around
the school.

Switches

•Switches are like major
junctions in a road traffic
system.
•A switch decides which cable
the data needs to travel down
to reach the right destination.

The advantages of networks

• Communicating: We can send messages and emails over the network.

• Sharing: We can a network to share files and expensive devices like

printers.

• Saving work: We can save files onto network storage drives. Its is easy

to share files with other people.

• Working together: Networks help people to work together.