Summary Information Technology Theory

Module 2.1
Network Configuration
 Buying hardware and software
 Planning and implementing user rights and permissions

Setting up a network
 PAN – WAN
Essential equipment

Network Interface  Allows computer to communicate with network
Controller  On board NIC
Switch  Connect computers in a network to a central location
 Directs traffic between devices connected to the
network
Cables  Connect computers to switch
 Fiber optic cables – fast data transfer
Wireless base station  Access point
 Transmits and receives radio waves


Connecting to the Internet

 Consider needs of users, budget, and availability of service

ADSL  Permanent digital connection using telephone line
Asymmetric Digital  Download speed faster than upload speed
Subscriber Line  Small or large networks
WiFi / WiMax  Wireless base station using radio waves
 WiMax – more secure communication over wider area
 Signal strength drop due to
 Interference of physical objects
 Electromagnetic interference
Cellular  Data connectivity to mobile devices
 Provide connectivity to computers
 Modem that connects to network
 Personal hotspot


Modem: coverts data from computer to a format that can be transferred over a communication
channel e.g., ADSL
Router: makes communication between network over internet possible by directing data to its
correct destination