WHAT IS NETWORK?

NETWORK
A network consists of two or more computers that are linked in order to share resources (such as
printers and CD-ROMs), exchange files, or allow electronic communications !he computers on
a network ma" #e linked through ca#les, telephone lines, radio wa$es, satellites, or infrared light
#eams
!he three #asic t"pes of networks include%
&ocal Area 'etwork (&A')
Metropolitan Area 'etwork (MA')
(ide Area 'etwork ((A')
Local Area Network
A &ocal Area 'etwork (&A') is a network that is confined to a relati$el" small area )t is
generall" limited to a geographic area such as a writing la#, school, or #uilding Rarel" are
&A' computers more than a mile apart
)n a t"pical &A' configuration, one computer is designated as the file ser$er )t stores all of the
software that controls the network, as well as the software that can #e shared #" the computers
attached to the network Computers connected to the file ser$er are called workstations !he
workstations can #e less powerful than the file ser$er, and the" ma" ha$e additional software on
their hard dri$es On most &A's, ca#les are used to connect the network interface cards in each
computer *ee the !opolog", Ca#ling, and +ardware sections of this tutorial for more
information on the configuration of a &A'
Metropolitan Area Network
A Metropolitan Area 'etwork (MA') co$ers larger geographic areas, such as cities or school
districts ," interconnecting smaller networks within a large geographic area, information is
easil" disseminated throughout the network &ocal li#raries and go$ernment agencies often use a
MA' to connect to citi-ens and pri$ate industries One example of a MA' is the M)'D
'etwork located in .asco Count", /lorida )t connects all of .asco0s media centers to a
centrali-ed mainframe at the district office #" using dedicated phone lines, coaxial ca#ling, and
wireless communications pro$iders
Wide Area Network
(ide Area 'etworks ((A's) connect larger geographic areas, such as /lorida, the 1nited
*tates, or the world Dedicated transoceanic ca#ling or satellite uplinks ma" #e used to connect
this t"pe of network
1sing a (A', schools in /lorida can communicate with places like !ok"o in a matter of
minutes, without pa"ing enormous phone #ills A (A' is complicated )t uses multiplexers to
connect local and metropolitan networks to glo#al communications networks like the )nternet !o
users, howe$er, a (A' will not appear to #e much different than a &A' or a MA'
Protocol?
A protocol is a set of rules that go$erns the communications #etween computers on a network
!hese rules include guidelines that regulate the following characteristics of a network% access
method, allowed ph"sical topologies, t"pes of ca#ling, and speed of data transfer
*ee the !opolog" and Ca#ling sections of this tutorial for more information
The most common protocols are
Ethernet
Local Talk
Token Rin!
"##I
ATM
$rotocol S%mmar&
$rotocol 'a(le Speed Topolo!&
Ethernet
!wisted .air, Coaxial,
/i#er
23 M#ps &inear ,us, *tar, !ree
"ast Ethernet !wisted .air, /i#er 233 M#ps *tar
Local Talk !wisted .air 45 M#ps &inear ,us or *tar
Token Rin! !wisted .air 6 M#ps - 27 M#ps *tar-(ired Ring
"##I /i#er 233 M#ps Dual ring
ATM !wisted .air, /i#er 288-4699 M#ps &inear ,us, *tar, !ree
Ethernet
!he :thernet protocol is #" far the most widel" used :thernet uses an access method called
C*MA;CD (Carrier *ense Multiple Access;Collision Detection) !his is a s"stem where each
computer listens to the ca#le #efore sending an"thing through the network )f the network is
clear, the computer will transmit )f some other node is alread" transmitting on the ca#le, the
computer will wait and tr" again when the line is clear *ometimes, two computers attempt to
transmit at the same instant (hen this happens a collision occurs :ach computer then #acks off
and waits a random amount of time #efore attempting to retransmit (ith this access method, it is
normal to ha$e collisions +owe$er, the dela" caused #" collisions and retransmitting is $er"
small and does not normall" effect the speed of transmission on the network
!he :thernet protocol allows for linear #us, star, or tree topologies Data can #e transmitted o$er
twisted pair, coaxial, or fi#er optic ca#le at a speed of 23 M#ps
"ast Ethernet
!o allow for an increased speed of transmission, the :thernet protocol has de$eloped a new
standard that supports 233 M#ps !his is commonl" called /ast :thernet /ast :thernet re<uires
the use of different, more expensi$e network concentrators;hu#s and network interface cards )n
addition, categor" 8 twisted pair or fi#er optic ca#le is necessar" /ast :thernet is #ecoming
common in schools that ha$e #een recentl" wired
)i!a(it Ethernet
!he most recent de$elopment in the :thernet standard is a protocol that has a transmission speed
of 2 =#ps =iga#it :thernet is primaril" used for #ack#ones on a network at this time )n the
future, it will pro#a#l" #e used for workstation and ser$er connections also )t can #e used with
#oth fi#er optic ca#ling and copper !he 2333,ase!>, the copper ca#le used for =iga#it
:thernet, is expected to #ecome the formal standard in 2???
Local Talk
&ocal !alk is a network protocol that was de$eloped #" Apple Computer, )nc for Macintosh
computers !he method used #" &ocal!alk is called C*MA;CA (Carrier *ense Multiple Access
with Collision A$oidance) )t is similar to C*MA;CD except that a computer signals its intent to
transmit #efore it actuall" does so &ocal!alk adapters and special twisted pair ca#le can #e used
to connect a series of computers through the serial port !he Macintosh operating s"stem allows
the esta#lishment of a peer-to-peer network without the need for additional software (ith the
addition of the ser$er $ersion of Apple*hare software, a client;ser$er network can #e esta#lished
!he &ocal!alk protocol allows for linear #us, star, or tree topologies using twisted pair ca#le A
primar" disad$antage of &ocal!alk is speed )ts speed of transmission is onl" 453 @#ps
Token Rin!
!he !oken Ring protocol was de$eloped #" ),M in the mid-2?93s !he access method used
in$ol$es token passing )n !oken Ring, the computers are connected so that the signal tra$els
around the network from one computer to another in a logical ring A single electronic token
mo$es around the ring from one computer to the next )f a computer does not ha$e information to
transmit, it simpl" passes the token on to the next workstation )f a computer wishes to transmit
and recei$es an empt" token, it attaches data to the token !he token then proceeds around the
ring until it comes to the computer for which the data is meant At this point, the data is captured
#" the recei$ing computer !he !oken Ring protocol re<uires a star-wired ring using twisted pair
or fi#er optic ca#le )t can operate at transmission speeds of 6 M#ps or 27 M#ps Due to the
increasing popularit" of :thernet, the use of !oken Ring in school en$ironments has decreased
"##I
/i#er Distri#uted Data )nterface (/DD)) is a network protocol that is used primaril" to
interconnect two or more local area networks, often o$er large distances !he access method
used #" /DD) in$ol$es token passing /DD) uses a dual ring ph"sical topolog" !ransmission
normall" occurs on one of the ringsA howe$er, if a #reak occurs, the s"stem keeps information
mo$ing #" automaticall" using portions of the second ring to create a new complete ring A
maBor ad$antage of /DD) is speed )t operates o$er fi#er optic ca#le at 233 M#ps
ATM
As"nchronous !ransfer Mode (A!M) is a network protocol that transmits data at a speed of 288
M#ps and higher A!M works #" transmitting all data in small packets of a fixed si-eA whereas,
other protocols transfer $aria#le length packets A!M supports a $ariet" of media such as $ideo,
CD-<ualit" audio, and imaging A!M emplo"s a star topolog", which can work with fi#er optic
as well as twisted pair ca#le
A!M is most often used to interconnect two or more local area networks )t is also fre<uentl"
used #" )nternet *er$ice .ro$iders to utili-e high-speed access to the )nternet for their clients As
A!M technolog" #ecomes more cost-effecti$e, it will pro$ide another solution for constructing
faster local area networks
Advantages of Installing a School Network
Speed* 'etworks pro$ide a $er" rapid method for sharing and transferring files (ithout a
network, files are shared #" cop"ing them to flopp" disks, then carr"ing or sending the
disks from one computer to another !his method of transferring files (referred to as
sneaker-net) is $er" time-consuming
'ost 'etworka#le $ersions of man" popular software programs are a$aila#le at
considera#le sa$ings when compared to #u"ing indi$iduall" licensed copies ,esides monetar"
sa$ings, sharing a program on a network allows for easier upgrading of the program !he
changes ha$e to #e done onl" once, on the file ser$er, instead of on all the indi$idual
workstations
Sec%rit& /iles and programs on a network can #e designated as Ccop" inhi#it,C so that
"ou do not ha$e to worr" a#out illegal cop"ing of programs Also, passwords can #e esta#lished
for specific directories to restrict access to authori-ed users
'entrali+ed So,tware Mana!ement One of the greatest #enefits of installing a network
at a school is the fact that all of the software can #e loaded on one computer (the file ser$er)
!his eliminates that need to spend time and energ" installing updates and tracking files on
independent computers throughout the #uilding
Reso%rce Sharin! *haring resources is another area in which a network exceeds stand-
alone computers Most schools cannot afford enough laser printers, fax machines, modems,
scanners, and CD-ROM pla"ers for each computer +owe$er, if these or similar peripherals are
added to a network, the" can #e shared #" man" users
Electronic Mail !he presence of a network pro$ides the hardware necessar" to install an
e-mail s"stem :-mail aids in personal and professional communication for all school personnel,
and it facilitates the dissemination of general information to the entire school staff :lectronic
mail on a &A' can ena#le students to communicate with teachers and peers at their own school
)f the &A' is connected to the )nternet, students can communicate with others throughout the
world
"le-i(le Access *chool networks allow students to access their files from computers
throughout the school *tudents can #egin an assignment in their classroom, sa$e part of it on a
pu#lic access area of the network, then go to the media center after school to finish their work
*tudents can also work cooperati$el" through the network
Work!ro%p 'omp%tin! (orkgroup software (such as Microsoft ,ackOffice) allows
man" users to work on a document or proBect concurrentl" /or example, educators located at
$arious schools within a count" could simultaneousl" contri#ute their ideas a#out new
curriculum standards to the same document and spreadsheets
Disadvantages of Installing a School Network
E-pensi.e to Install Although a network will generall" sa$e mone" o$er time, the initial
costs of installation can #e prohi#iti$e Ca#les, network cards, and software are expensi$e, and
the installation ma" re<uire the ser$ices of a technician
Re/%ires Administrati.e Time .roper maintenance of a network re<uires considera#le
time and expertise Man" schools ha$e installed a network, onl" to find that the" did not #udget
for the necessar" administrati$e support
"ile Ser.er Ma& "ail Although a file ser$er is no more suscepti#le to failure than an"
other computer, when the files ser$er Cgoes down,C the entire network ma" come to a halt (hen
this happens, the entire school ma" lose access to necessar" programs and files
'a(les Ma& 0reak* !he !opolog" chapter presents information a#out the $arious
configurations of ca#les *ome of the configurations are designed to minimi-e the
incon$enience of a #roken ca#leA with other configurations, one #roken ca#le can stop the
entire network
The Networking ardware?
'etworking hardware includes all computers, peripherals, interface cards and other e<uipment
needed to perform data processing and communications within the network C&)C@ on the terms
#elow to learn more a#out those pieces of networking hardware
This section pro.ides in,ormation on the ,ollowin! components
/ile *er$ers (orkstations
'etwork )nterface Cards Concentrators;+u#s
Repeaters ,ridges
Routers
"ile Ser.ers
A file ser$er stands at the heart of most networks )t is a $er" fast computer with a large amount
of RAM and storage space, along with a fast network interface card !he network operating
s"stem software resides on this computer, along with an" software applications and data files that
need to #e shared
!he file ser$er controls the communication of information #etween the nodes on a network /or
example, it ma" #e asked to send a word processor program to one workstation, recei$e a
data#ase file from another workstation, and store an e-mail message during the same time period
!his re<uires a computer that can store a lot of information and share it $er" <uickl" /ile ser$ers
should ha$e at least the following characteristics%
277 megahert- or faster microprocessor (.entium, .ower.C)
A fast hard dri$e with at least nine giga#"tes of storage
A RA)D (Redundant Arra" of )nexpensi$e Disks) to preser$e data after a disk
casualt"
A tape #ack-up unit (ie DA!, DAE, Eip, or CD-R( dri$e)
'umerous expansion slots
/ast network interface card and At least of 54 M, of RAM
Workstations
All of the computers connected to the file ser$er on a network are called workstations A t"pical
workstation is a computer that is configured with a network interface card, networking software,
and the appropriate ca#les (orkstations do not necessaril" need flopp" disk dri$es or hard
dri$es #ecause files can #e sa$ed on the file ser$er Almost an" computer can ser$e as a network
workstation
Network Inter,ace 'ards
!he network interface card (')C) pro$ides the ph"sical connection #etween the network and the
computer workstation Most ')Cs are internal, with the card fitting into an expansion slot inside
the computer *ome computers, such as Mac Classics, use external #oxes, which are attached to a
serial port or a *C*) port &aptop computers can now #e purchased with a network interface card
#uilt-in or with network cards that slip into a .CMC)A slot
'etwork interface cards are a maBor factor in determining the speed and performance of a
network )t is a good idea to use the fastest network card a$aila#le for the t"pe of workstation
"ou are using
!he three most common network interface connections are :thernet cards, &ocal!alk connectors,
and !oken Ring cards According to a )nternational Data Corporation stud", :thernet is the most
popular, followed #" !oken Ring and &ocal!alk (*ant0Angelo, R (2??8) NetWare Unleashed,
)ndianapolis, )'% *ams .u#lishing)
Ethernet 'ards
:thernet cards are usuall" purchased separatel" from a computer, although man" computers
(such as the Macintosh) now include an option for a pre-installed :thernet card :thernet cards
contain connections for either coaxial or twisted pair ca#les (or #oth) (*ee fig 2) )f it is
designed for coaxial ca#le, the connection will #e ,'C )f it is designed for twisted pair, it will
ha$e a RD-68 connection *ome :thernet cards also contain an A1) connector !his can #e used
to attach coaxial, twisted pair, or fi#er optics ca#le to an :thernet card (hen this method is used
there is alwa"s an external transcei$er attached to the workstation (*ee the Ca#ling section for
more information on connectors)

/ig2:thernet card /rom top to #ottom% RD-68, A1), and ,'C connectors
LocalTalk 'onnectors
&ocal!alk is Apple0s #uilt-in solution for networking Macintosh computers )t utili-es a special
adapter #ox and a ca#le that plugs into the printer port of a Macintosh (*ee fig 4) A maBor
disad$antage of &ocal!alk is that it is slow in comparison to :thernet Most :thernet connections
operate at 23 M#ps (Mega#its per second) )n contrast, &ocal!alk operates at onl" 453 @#ps (or
45 M#ps)
Ethernet 'ards .s* LocalTalk 'onnections
Ethernet LocalTalk
/ast data transfer (23 to 233
M#ps)
*low data transfer (45 M#ps)
:xpensi$e - purchased separatel" ,uilt into Macintosh computers
Re<uires computer slot 'o computer slot necessar"
A$aila#le for most computers
(orks onl" on Macintosh
computers
/ig4 &ocal!alk connectors
Token Rin! 'ards
!oken Ring network cards look similar to :thernet cards One $isi#le difference is the t"pe of
connector on the #ack end of the card !oken Ring cards generall" ha$e a ninepin D)' t"pe
connector to attach the card to the network ca#le
'oncentrators1H%(s
A concentrator is a de$ice that pro$ides a central connection point for ca#les from workstations,
ser$ers, and peripherals )n a star topolog", twisted-pair wire is run from each workstation to a
central concentrator +u#s are multislot concentrators into which can #e plugged a num#er of
multi-port cards to pro$ide additional access as the network grows in si-e *ome concentrators
are passi$e that is the" allow the signal to pass from one computer to another without an"
change Most concentrators are acti$e, that is the" electricall" amplif" the signal as it mo$es
from one de$ice to another Acti$e concentrators are used like repeaters to extend the length of a
network Concentrators are%
1suall" configured with 9, 24, or 46 RD-68 ports
Often used in a star or star-wired ring topolog"
*old with speciali-ed software for port management
Also called hu#s
1suall" installed in a standardi-ed metal rack that also ma" store net modems, or #ridges
Repeaters
*ince a signal loses strength as it passes along a ca#le, it is often necessar" to #oost the signal
with a de$ice called a repeater !he repeater electricall" amplifies the signal it recei$es and
re#roadcasts it Repeaters can #e separate de$ices or the" can #e incorporated into a concentrator
!he" are used when the total length of "our network ca#le exceeds the standards set for the t"pe
of ca#le #eing used
A good example of the use of repeaters would #e in a local area network using a star topolog"
with unshielded twisted-pair ca#ling !he length limit for unshielded twisted-pair ca#le is 233
meters !he most common configuration is for each workstation to #e connected #" twisted-pair
ca#le to a multi-port acti$e concentrator !he concentrator amplifies all the signals that pass
through it allowing for the total length of ca#le on the network to exceed the 233 meter limit
0rid!es
A #ridge is a de$ice that allows "ou to segment a large network into two smaller, more efficient
networks )f "ou are adding to an older wiring scheme and want the new network to #e up-to-
date, a #ridge can connect the two
A #ridge monitors the information traffic on #oth sides of the network so that it can pass packets
of information to the correct location Most #ridges can ClistenC to the network and automaticall"
figure out the address of each computer on #oth sides of the #ridge !he #ridge can inspect each
message and, if necessar", #roadcast it on the other side of the network
!he #ridge manages the traffic to maintain optimum performance on #oth sides of the network
Fou might sa" that the #ridge is like a traffic cop at a #us" intersection during rush hour )t keeps
information flowing on #oth sides of the network, #ut it does not allow unnecessar" traffic
through ,ridges can #e used to connect different t"pes of ca#ling, or ph"sical topologies !he"
must, howe$er, #e used #etween networks with the same protocol
Ro%ters
A router translates information from one network to anotherA it is similar to a super intelligent
#ridge Routers select the #est path to route a message, #ased on the destination address and
origin !he router can direct traffic to pre$ent head-on collisions, and is smart enough to know
when to direct traffic along #ack roads and shortcuts
(hile #ridges know the addresses of all computers on each side of the network, routers know the
addresses of computers, #ridges, and other routers on the network Routers can e$en ClistenC to
the entire network to determine which sections are #usiest -- the" can then redirect data around
those sections until the" clear up
)f "ou ha$e a school &A' that "ou want to connect to the )nternet, "ou will need to purchase a
router )n this case, the router ser$es as the translator #etween the information on "our &A' and
the )nternet
)t also determines the #est route to send the data o$er the )nternet Routers can%
Direct signal traffic efficientl"
Route messages #etween an" two protocols
Route messages #etween linear #us, star, and star-wired ring topologies
Route messages across fi#er optic, coaxial, and twisted-pair ca#ling
Network 'a(lin!?
Ca#le is the medium through which information usuall" mo$es from one network de$ice to
another !here are se$eral t"pes of ca#le which are commonl" used with &A's )n some cases, a
network will utili-e onl" one t"pe of ca#leA other networks will use a $ariet" of ca#le t"pes !he
t"pe of ca#le chosen for a network is related to the network0s topolog", protocol, and si-e
1nderstanding the characteristics of different t"pes of ca#le and how the" relate to other aspects
of a network is necessar" for the de$elopment of a successful network
!he following sections discuss the t"pes of ca#les used in networks and other related topics
1nshielded !wisted .air (1!.) Ca#le
*hielded !wisted .air (*!.) Ca#le
Coaxial Ca#le
/i#er Optic Ca#le
(ireless &A's
Ca#le )nstallation =uides
2nshielded Twisted $air 32T$4 'a(le
!wisted pair ca#ling comes in two $arieties% shielded and unshielded 1nshielded twisted pair
(1!.) is the most popular and is generall" the #est option for school networks (*ee fig 2)
/ig2 1nshielded twisted pair
!he <ualit" of 1!. ma" $ar" from telephone-grade wire to extremel" high-speed ca#le !he
ca#le has four pairs of wires inside the Backet :ach pair is twisted with a different num#er of
twists per inch to help eliminate interference from adBacent pairs and other electrical de$ices !he
tighter the twisting, the higher the supported transmission rate and the greater the cost per foot
!he :)A;!)A (:lectronic )ndustr" Association;!elecommunication )ndustr" Association) has
esta#lished standards of 1!. and rated fi$e categories of wire
'ate!ories o, 2nshielded Twisted $air
T&pe 2se
Categor" 2 Goice Onl" (!elephone (ire)
Categor" 4 Data to 6 M#ps (&ocal!alk)
Categor" 5 Data to 23 M#ps (:thernet)
Categor" 6 Data to 43 M#ps (27 M#ps !oken Ring)
Categor" 8 Data to 233 M#ps (/ast :thernet)
,u" the #est ca#le "ou can affordA most schools purchase Categor" 5 or Categor" 8 )f "ou are
designing a 23 M#ps :thernet network and are considering the cost sa$ings of #u"ing Categor" 5
wire instead of Categor" 8, remem#er that the Categor" 8 ca#le will pro$ide more Croom to
growC as transmission technologies increase ,oth Categor" 5 and Categor" 8 1!. ha$e a
maximum segment length of 233 meters )n /lorida, Categor" 8 ca#le is re<uired for retrofit
grants 23,ase! refers to the specifications for unshielded twisted pair ca#le (Categor" 5, 6, or 8)
carr"ing :thernet signals
2nshielded Twisted $air 'onnector
!he standard connector for unshielded twisted pair ca#ling is an RD-68 connector !his is a
plastic connector that looks like a large telephone-st"le connector (*ee fig 4) A slot allows the
RD-68 to #e inserted onl" one wa" RD stands for Registered Dack, impl"ing that the connector
follows a standard #orrowed from the telephone industr" !his standard designates which wire
goes with each pin inside the connector
/ig 4 RD-68 connector
Shielded Twisted $air 3ST$4 'a(le
A disad$antage of 1!. is that it ma" #e suscepti#le to radio and electrical fre<uenc"
interference *hielded twisted pair (*!.) is suita#le for en$ironments with electrical interferenceA
howe$er, the extra shielding can make the ca#les <uite #ulk" *hielded twisted pair is often used
on networks using !oken Ring topolog"
'oa-ial 'a(le
Coaxial ca#ling has a single copper conductor at its center A plastic la"er pro$ides insulation
#etween the center conductor and a #raided metal shield (*ee fig 5) !he metal shield helps to
#lock an" outside interference from fluorescent lights, motors, and other computers
/ig 5 Coaxial ca#le
Although coaxial ca#ling is difficult to install, it is highl" resistant to signal interference )n
addition, it can support greater ca#le lengths #etween network de$ices than twisted pair ca#le
!he two t"pes of coaxial ca#ling are thick coaxial and thin coaxial
!hin coaxial ca#le is also referred to as thinnet 23,ase4 refers to the specifications for thin
coaxial ca#le carr"ing :thernet signals !he 4 refer to the approximate maximum segment length
#eing 433 meters )n actual fact the maximum segment length is 298 meters !hin coaxial ca#le
is popular in school networks, especiall" linear #us networks
!hick coaxial ca#le is also referred to as thicknet 23,ase8 refers to the specifications for thick
coaxial ca#le carr"ing :thernet signals !he 8 refer to the maximum segment length #eing 833
meters !hick coaxial ca#le has an extra protecti$e plastic co$er that helps keep moisture awa"
from the center conductor !his makes thick coaxial a great choice when running longer lengths
in a linear #us network One disad$antage of thick coaxial is that it does not #end easil" and is
difficult to install
'oa-ial 'a(le 'onnectors
!he most common t"pe of connector used with coaxial ca#les is the ,a"one-'eill-Concelman
(,'C) connector (*ee fig 6) Different t"pes of adapters are a$aila#le for ,'C connectors,
including a !-connector, #arrel connector, and terminator Connectors on the ca#le are the
weakest points in an" network !o help a$oid pro#lems with "our network, alwa"s use the ,'C
connectors that crimp, rather than screw, onto the ca#le
/ig 6 ,'C connector
"i(er Optic 'a(le
/i#er optic ca#ling consists of a center glass core surrounded #" se$eral la"ers of protecti$e
materials (*ee fig 8) )t transmits light rather than electronic signals eliminating the pro#lem of
electrical interference !his makes it ideal for certain en$ironments that contain a large amount
of electrical interference )t has also made it the standard for connecting networks #etween
#uildings, due to its immunit" to the effects of moisture and lighting
/i#er optic ca#le has the a#ilit" to transmit signals o$er much longer distances than coaxial and
twisted pair )t also has the capa#ilit" to carr" information at $astl" greater speeds !his capacit"
#roadens communication possi#ilities to include ser$ices such as $ideo conferencing and
interacti$e ser$ices !he cost of fi#er optic ca#ling is compara#le to copper ca#lingA howe$er, it
is more difficult to install and modif" 23,ase/ refers to the specifications for fi#er optic ca#le
carr"ing :thernet signals
/ig8 /i#er optic ca#le
/acts a#out fi#er optic ca#les%
Outer insulating Backet is made of !eflon or .GC
@e$lar fi#er helps to strengthen the ca#le and pre$ent #reakage
A plastic coating is used to cushion the fi#er center
Center (core) is made of glass or plastic fi#ers
"i(er Optic 'onnector
!he most common connector used with fi#er optic ca#le is an *! connector )t is #arrel shaped,
similar to a ,'C connector A newer connector, the *C, is #ecoming more popular )t has a
s<uared face and is easier to connect in a confined space
Ethernet 'a(le S%mmar&
Speci,ication 'a(le T&pe Ma-im%m len!th
560aseT 1nshielded !wisted .air 233 meters
560ase7 !hin Coaxial 298 meters
560ase8 !hick Coaxial 833 meters
560ase" /i#er Optic 4333 meters
5660aseT 1nshielded !wisted .air 233 meters
5660aseT9 1nshielded !wisted .air 443 meters
Wireless LANs
'ot all networks are connected with ca#lingA some networks are wireless (ireless &A's use
high fre<uenc" radio signals, infrared light #eams, or lasers to communicate #etween the
workstations and the file ser$er or hu#s :ach workstation and file ser$er on a wireless network
has some sort of transcei$er;antenna to send and recei$e the data )nformation is rela"ed #etween
transcei$ers as if the" were ph"sicall" connected /or longer distance, wireless communications
can also take place through cellular telephone technolog", microwa$e transmission, or #"
satellite
(ireless networks are great for allowing laptop computers or remote computers to connect to the
&A' (ireless networks are also #eneficial in older #uildings where it ma" #e difficult or
impossi#le to install ca#les
!he two most common t"pes of infrared communications used in schools are line-of-sight and
scattered #roadcast &ine-of-sight communication means that there must #e an un#locked direct
line #etween the workstation and the transcei$er )f a person walks within the line-of-sight while
there is a transmission, the information would need to #e sent again !his kind of o#struction can
slow down the wireless network
*cattered infrared communication is a #roadcast of infrared transmissions sent out in multiple
directions that #ounces off walls and ceilings until it e$entuall" hits the recei$er 'etworking
communications with laser are $irtuall" the same as line-of-sight infrared networks
(ireless &A's ha$e se$eral disad$antages !he" are $er" expensi$e, pro$ide poor securit", and
are suscepti#le to interference from lights and electronic de$ices !he" are also slower than
&A's using ca#ling
Installin! 'a(le : Some )%idelines
(hen running ca#le, it is #est to follow a few simple rules%
Alwa"s use more ca#le than "ou need &ea$e plent" of slack
!est e$er" part of a network as "ou install it :$en if it is #rand new, it ma" ha$e
pro#lems that will #e difficult to isolate later
*ta" at least 5 feet awa" from fluorescent light #oxes and other sources of electrical
interference
)f it is necessar" to run ca#le across the floor, co$er the ca#le with ca#le protectors
&a#el #oth ends of each ca#le
1se ca#le ties (not tape) to keep ca#les in the same location together
What is a Topolo!&?
!he ph"sical topolog" of a network refers to the configuration of ca#les, computers, and other
peripherals .h"sical topolog" should not #e confused with logical topolog" which is the method
used to pass information #etween workstations &ogical topolog" was discussed in the .rotocol
Main T&pes o, $h&sical Topolo!ies
!he following sections discuss the ph"sical topologies used in networks and other related topics
&inear ,us
*tar
*tar-(ired Ring
!ree
Considerations (hen Choosing a !opolog"
*ummar" Chart
Linear 0%s
A linear #us topolog" consists of a main run of ca#le with a terminator at each end (*ee fig 2)
All nodes (file ser$er, workstations, and peripherals) are connected to the linear ca#le :thernet
and &ocal !alk networks use a linear #us topolog"
/ig 2 &inear ,us topolog"
Ad.anta!es o, a Linear 0%s Topolo!&
:as" to connect a computer or peripheral to a linear #us
Re<uires less ca#le length than a star topolog"
#isad.anta!es o, a Linear 0%s Topolo!&
:ntire network shuts down if there is a #reak in the main ca#le
!erminators are re<uired at #oth ends of the #ack#one ca#le
Difficult to identif" the pro#lem if the entire network shuts down
'ot meant to #e used as a stand-alone solution in a large #uilding
Star
A star topolog" is designed with each node (file ser$er, workstations, and peripherals) connected
directl" to a central network hu# or concentrator (*ee fig 4)
Data on a star network passes through the hu# or concentrator #efore continuing to its
destination !he hu# or concentrator manages and controls all functions of the network )t also
acts as a repeater for the data flow !his configuration is common with twisted pair ca#leA
howe$er, it can also #e used with coaxial ca#le or fi#er optic ca#le
/ig 4 *tar topolog"
Ad.anta!es o, a Star Topolo!&
:as" to install and wire
'o disruptions to the network then connecting or remo$ing de$ices
:as" to detect faults and to remo$e parts
#isad.anta!es o, a Star Topolo!&
Re<uires more ca#le length than a linear topolog"
)f the hu# or concentrator fails, nodes attached are disa#led
More expensi$e than linear #us topologies #ecause of the cost of the concentrators
!he protocols used with star configurations are usuall" :thernet or &ocal!alk !oken Ring uses a
similar topolog", called the star-wired ring
Star:Wired Rin!
A star-wired ring topolog" ma" appear (externall") to #e the same as a star topolog" )nternall",
the MA1 (outstation access unit) of a star-wired ring contains wiring that allows information to
pass from one de$ice to another in a circle or ring (*ee fig 5) !he !oken Ring protocol uses a
star-wired ring topolog"
Tree
A tree topolog" com#ines characteristics of linear #us and star topologies )t consists of groups of
star-configured workstations connected to a linear #us #ack#one ca#le (*ee fig 6) !ree
topologies allow for the expansion of an existing network, and ena#le schools to configure a
network to meet their needs
/ig 6 !ree topolog"
Ad.anta!es o, a Tree Topolo!&
.oint-to-point wiring for indi$idual segments
*upported #" se$eral hardware and software $enders
#isad.anta!es o, a Tree Topolo!&
O$erall length of each segment is limited #" the t"pe of ca#ling used
)f the #ack#one line #reaks, the entire segment goes down
More difficult to configure and wire than other topologies
8:;:< R%le
A consideration in setting up a tree topolog" using :thernet protocol is the 8-6-5 rule One aspect
of the :thernet protocol re<uires that a signal sent out on the network ca#le reach e$er" part of
the network within a specified length of time :ach concentrator or repeater that a signal goes
through adds a small amount of time !his leads to the rule that #etween an" two nodes on the
network there can onl" #e a maximum of 8 segments, connected through 6
repeaters;concentrators )n addition, onl" 5 of the segments ma" #e populated (trunk) segments if
the" are made of coaxial ca#le A populated segment is one which has one or more nodes
attached to it )n /igure 6, the 8-6-5 rule is adhered to !he furthest two nodes on the network
ha$e 6 segments and 5 repeaters;concentrators #etween them
!his rule does not appl" to other network protocols or :thernet networks where all fi#er optic
ca#ling or a com#ination of a fi#er #ack#one with 1!. ca#ling is used )f there is a com#ination
of fi#er optic #ack#one and 1!. ca#ling, the rule is simpl" translated to H-7-8 rule
'onsiderations When 'hoosin! a Topolo!&
Mone& A linear #us network ma" #e the least expensi$e wa" to install a networkA "ou do
not ha$e to purchase concentrators
Len!th o, ca(le needed !he linear #us network uses shorter lengths of ca#le
"%t%re !rowth (ith a star topolog", expanding a network is easil" done #" adding
another concentrator
'a(le t&pe !he most common ca#le in schools is unshielded twisted pair, which is most
often used with star topologies
S%mmar& 'hart
$h&sical Topolo!& 'ommon 'a(le 'ommon $rotocol
Linear 0%s
!wisted .air
Coaxial
/i#er
:thernet
&ocal!alk
Star
!wisted .air
/i#er
:thernet
&ocal!alk
Star:Wired Rin! !wisted .air !oken Ring
Tree
!wisted .air
Coaxial
/i#er
:thernet
What is a Network Operatin! S&stem?
1nlike operating s"stems, such as DO* and (indows?8, that are designed for single users to
control one computer, network operating s"stems ('O*) coordinate the acti$ities of multiple
computers across a network !he network operating s"stem acts as a director to keep the network
running smoothl"
!he two maBor t"pes of network operating s"stems are%
.eer-to-.eer
Client;*er$er
$eer:to:$eer
.eer-to-peer network operating s"stems allow users to share resources and files located on their
computers and to access shared resources found on other computers +owe$er, the" do not ha$e
a file ser$er or a centrali-ed management source (*ee fig 2) )n a peer-to-peer network, all
computers are considered e<ualA the" all ha$e the same a#ilities to use the resources a$aila#le on
the network .eer-to-peer networks are designed primaril" for small to medium local area
networks Apple*hare and (indows for (orkgroups are examples of programs that can function
as peer-to-peer network operating s"stems
/ig 2 .eer-to-peer network
Ad.anta!es o, a peer:to:peer network
&ess initial expense - 'o need for a dedicated ser$er
*etup - An operating s"stem (such as (indows ?8) alread" in place ma" onl" need to #e
reconfigured for peer-to-peer operations
#isad.anta!es o, a peer:to:peer network
Decentrali-ed - 'o central repositor" for files and applications
*ecurit" - Does not pro$ide the securit" a$aila#le on a client;ser$er network
'lient1Ser.er
Client;ser$er network operating s"stems allow the network to centrali-e functions and
applications in one or more dedicated file ser$ers (*ee fig 4) !he file ser$ers #ecome the heart
of the s"stem, pro$iding access to resources and pro$iding securit" )ndi$idual workstations
(clients) ha$e access to the resources a$aila#le on the file ser$ers !he network operating s"stem
pro$ides the mechanism to integrate all the components of the network and allow multiple users
to simultaneousl" share the same resources irrespecti$e of ph"sical location 'o$ell 'etware and
(indows '! *er$er are examples of client;ser$er network operating s"stems
/ig 4 Client;ser$er network
Ad.anta!es o, a client1ser.er network
Centrali-ed - Resources and data securit" are controlled through the ser$er
*cala#ilit" - An" or all elements can #e replaced indi$iduall" as needs increase
/lexi#ilit" - 'ew technolog" can #e easil" integrated into s"stem
)nteropera#ilit" - All components (client;network;ser$er) work together
Accessi#ilit" - *er$er can #e accessed remotel" and across multiple platforms
#isad.anta!es o, a client1ser.er network
:xpense - Re<uires initial in$estment in dedicated ser$er
Maintenance - &arge networks will re<uire a staff to ensure efficient operation
Dependence - (hen ser$er goes down, operations will cease across the network
E-amples o, network operatin! s&stems
!he following list includes some of the more popular peer-to-peer and client;ser$er network
operating s"stems
Apple *hare
&A'tastic
Microsoft (indows for (orkgroups
Microsoft (indows '! *er$er
'o$ell 'etware
560ase7 - :thernet specification for thin coaxial ca#le, transmits signals at 23 M#ps (mega#its
per second) with a distance limit of 298 meters per segment
560ase8 - :thernet specification for thick coaxial ca#le, transmits signals at 23 M#ps (mega#its
per second) with a distance limit of 833 meters per segment
560ase" - :thernet specification for fi#er optic ca#le, transmits signals at 23 M#ps (mega#its
per second) with a distance limit of 4333 meters per segment
560aseT - :thernet specification for unshielded twisted pair ca#le (categor" 5, 6, or 8), transmits
signals at 23 M#ps (mega#its per second) with a distance limit of 233 meters per segment
5660aseT - :thernet specification for unshielded twisted pair ca#ling that is used to transmit
data at 233 M#ps (mega#its per second) with a distance limit of 233 meters per segment
5660aseT9 -:thernet specification for unshielded twisted pair ca#ling that is used to transmit
data at 2 =#ps (giga#its per second) with a distance limitation of 443 meters per segment
As&nchrono%s Trans,er Mode 3ATM4 - A network protocol that transmits data at a speed of
288 M#ps and higher )t is most often used to interconnect two or more local area networks
AppleTalk - Apple Computer0s network protocol originall" designed to run o$er &ocal!alk
networks, #ut can also run on :thernet and !oken Ring
A2I 'onnector (Attachment 1nit )nterface) - A 28 pin connector found on :thernet cards that
can #e used for attaching coaxial, fi#er optic, or twisted pair ca#le
0ack(one - A ca#le to which multiple nodes or workstations are attached
0it - ,inar" digit in the #inar" num#ering s"stem )ts $alue can #e 3 or 2 )n an 9-#it character
scheme, it takes 9 #its to make a #"te (character) of data
0N' 'onnector (,a"one-'eill-Concelman) - *tandard connector used to connect 23,ase4
coaxial ca#le
0rid!e - De$ices that connect and pass packets #etween two network segments that use the same
communications protocol
'a(le - !ransmission medium of copper wire or optical fi#er wrapped in a protecti$e co$er
'lient1Ser.er - A networking s"stem in which one or more file ser$ers (*er$er) pro$ide
ser$icesA such as network management, application and centrali-ed data storage for workstations
(Clients)
'SMA1'A - Carrier *ense Multiple Access Collision A$oidance is a network access method in
which each de$ice signals its intent to transmit #efore it actuall" does so !his pre$ents other
de$ices from sending information, thus pre$enting collisions from occurring #etween signals
from two or more de$ices !his is the access method used #" &ocal!alk
'SMA1'# - Carrier *ense Multiple Access Collision Detection is a network access method in
which de$ices that are read" to transmit data first check the channel for a carrier )f no carrier is
sensed, a de$ice can transmit )f two de$ices transmit at once, a collision occurs and each
computer #acks off and waits a random amount of time #efore attempting to retransmit !his is
the access method used #" :thernet
'oa-ial 'a(le - Ca#le consisting of a single copper conductor in the center surrounded #" a
plastic la"er for insulation and a #raided metal outer shield
'oncentrator - A de$ice that pro$ides a central connection point for ca#les from workstations,
ser$ers, and peripherals Most concentrators contain the a#ilit" to amplif" the electrical signal
the" recei$e
#IN - A plug and socket connector consisting of a circular pattern of pins in a metal slee$e !his
t"pe of connector is commonl" seen on ke"#oards
#%m( Terminal - Refers to de$ices that are designed to communicate exclusi$el" with a host
(main frame) computer )t recei$es all screen la"outs from the host computer and sends all
ke"#oard entr" to the host )t cannot function without the host computer
E:mail - An electronic mail message sent from a host computer to a remote computer
End 2ser - Refers to the human executing applications on the workstation
Ethernet - A network protocol in$ented #" >erox Corporation and de$eloped Bointl" #" >erox,
)ntel and Digital :<uipment Corporation :thernet networks use C*MA;CD and run o$er a
$ariet" of ca#le t"pes at 23 M#ps (mega#its per second)
E-pansion Slot - Area in a computer that accepts additional input;output #oards to increase the
capa#ilit" of the computer
"ast Ethernet - A new :thernet standard that supports 233 M#ps using categor" 8 twisted pair
or fi#er optic ca#le
"i(er #istri(%ted #ata Inter,ace 3"##I4 - A network protocol that is used primaril" to
interconnect two or more local area networks, often o$er large distances
"i(er Optic 'a(le - A ca#le, consisting of a center glass core surrounded #" la"ers of plastic,
that transmits data using light rather than electricit" )t has the a#ilit" to carr" more information
o$er much longer distances
"ile Ser.er - A computer connected to the network that contains primar" files;applications and
shares them as re<uested with the other computers on the network )f the file ser$er is dedicated
for that purpose onl", it is connected to a client;ser$er network An example of a client;ser$er
network is 'o$ell 'etware All the computers connected to a peer-to-peer network are capa#le of
#eing the file ser$er !wo examples of peer-to-peer networks are &A'tastic and (indows for
(orkgroups
)i!a(it Ethernet - An :thernet protocol that raises the transmission rates to 2 =#ps (giga#its
per second) )t is primaril" used for a high speed #ack#one of a network
)i!a(&te (=,) - One #illion #"tes of information One thousand mega#"tes
H%( - A hardware de$ice that contains multiple independent #ut connected modules of network
and internet work e<uipment +u#s can #e acti$e (where the" repeat signals sent through them)
or passi$e (where the" do not repeat #ut merel" split signals sent through them)
In,rared - :lectromagnetic wa$es whose fre<uenc" range is a#o$e that of microwa$es, #ut
#elow that of the $isi#le spectrum
Intranet - 'etwork internal to an organi-ation that uses )nternet protocols
Internet - A glo#al network of networks used to exchange information using the !C.;).
protocol )t allows for electronic mail and the accessing ad retrie$al of information from remote
sources
LAN (&ocal Area 'etwork) - A network connecting computers in a relati$el" small area such as
a #uilding
Linear 0%s - A network topolog" in which each node attaches directl" to a common ca#le
LocalTalk - Apple Corporation proprietar" protocol that uses C*MA;CA media access scheme
and supports transmissions at speeds of 453 @#ps (@ilo#its per second)
MAN (Metropolitan Area 'etwork) - A network connecting computers o$er a large geographical
area, such as a cit" or school district
MA2 (Multistation Access 1nit) - A !oken Ring wiring hu#
Modem (Modulator;Demodulator) - De$ices that con$ert digital and analog signals Modems
allow computer data (digital) to #e transmitted o$er $oice-grade telephone lines (analog)
M%ltiple-er - A de$ice that allows multiple logical signals to #e transmitted simultaneousl"
across a single ph"sical channel
Network Modem - A modem connected to a &ocal Area 'etwork (&A') that is accessi#le from
an" workstation on the network
Network Inter,ace 'ard (')C) - A #oard that pro$ides network communication capa#ilities to
and from a computer
Network Operatin! S&stem ('O*) - Operating s"stem designed to pass information and
communicate #etween more than one computer :xamples include Apple*hare, 'o$ell 'et(are,
and (indows '! *er$er
Node - :nd point of a network connection 'odes include an" de$ice attached to a network such
as file ser$ers, printers, or workstations
Node #e.ices - An" computer or peripheral that is connected to the network
$'M'IA - An expansion slot found in man" laptop computers
$eer:to:$eer Network - A network in which resources and files are shared without a centrali-ed
management source
$h&sical Topolo!& - !he ph"sical la"out of the networkA how the ca#les are arrangedA and how
the computers are connected
$oint:to:$oint - A direct link #etween two o#Bects in a network
$orts - A connection point for a ca#le
$rotocol -A formal description of a set of rules and con$entions that go$ern how de$ices on a
network exchange information
RAI# (Redundant Arra" of )nexpensi$e Disks) - A configuration of multiple disks designed to
preser$e data after a disk casualt"
RAM (Random Access Memor") - !he working memor" of a computer where data and
programs are temporaril" stored RAM onl" holds information when the computer is on
Repeater - A de$ice used in a network to strengthen a signal as it is passed along the network
ca#le
R=:;8 - *tandard connectors used for unshielded twisted-pair ca#le
Ro%ter -A de$ice that routes information #etween interconnected networks )t can select the #est
path to route a message, as well as translate information from one network to another )t is
similar to a super intelligent #ridge
S'SI 3Small 'omp%ter Serial Inter,ace4 - An interface controller that allows se$eral
peripherals to #e connected to the same port on a computer
Se!ment - Refers to a section of ca#le on a network )n :thernet networks, two t"pes of
segments are defined A populated or trunk segment is a network ca#le that has one or more
nodes attached to it A link segment is a ca#le that connects a computer to an interconnecting
de$ice, such as a repeater or concentrator, or connects a interconnecting de$ice to another
interconnecting de$ice
Sneaker:Net - Refers to a manual method of sharing files in which a file is copied from a
computer to a flopp" disk, transported to a second computer #" a person ph"sicall" walking
(apparentl" wearing sneakers) to the second computer, and manuall" transferring the file from
flopp" disk to the second computer
Speed o, #ata Trans,er - !he rate at which information tra$els through a network, usuall"
measured in mega#its per second
Star Topolo!& - &A' topolog" in which each node on a network is connected directl" to a
central network hu# or concentrator
Star:Wired Rin! - 'etwork topolog" that connects network de$ices (such as computers and
printers) in a complete circle
Tape 0ack:2p - Cop"ing all the data and programs of a computer s"stem on magnetic tape On
tape, data is stored se<uentiall" (hen retrie$ing data, the tape is searched from the #eginning of
tape until the data is found
Terminator - A de$ice that pro$ides electrical resistance at the end of a transmission line )ts
function is to a#sor# signals on the line, there#" keeping them from #ouncing #ack and #eing
recei$ed again #" the network
Thicknet - A thick coaxial ca#le that is used with a 23,ase8 :thernet &A'
Thinnet - A thin coaxial ca#le that is used with a 23,ase4 :thernet &A'
Token - A special packet that contains data and acts as a messenger or carrier #etween each
computer and de$ice on a ring topolog" :ach computer must wait for the messenger to stop at
its node #efore it can send data o$er the network
Token Rin! - A network protocol de$eloped #" ),M in which computers access the network
through token passing 1suall" uses a star-wired ring topolog"
Topolo!& - !here are two t"pes of topolog"% ph"sical and logical !he ph"sical topolog" of a
network refers to the configuration of ca#les, computers, and other peripherals &ogical topolog"
is the method used to pass the information #etween workstations )ssues in$ol$ing logical
topologies are discussed on the .rotocol chapter
Transcei.er (!ransmitter;Recei$er) - A De$ice that recei$es and sends signals o$er a medium )n
networks, it is generall" used to allow for the connection #etween two different t"pes of ca#le
connectors, such as A1) and RD-68
Tree Topolo!& - &A' topolog" similar to linear #us topolog", except that tree networks can
contain #ranches with multiple nodes
Twisted $air - 'etwork ca#ling that consists of four pairs of wires that are manufactured with
the wires twisted to certain specifications A$aila#le in shielded and unshielded $ersions
2S0 32ni.ersal Serial 0%s4 $ort - A hardware interface for low-speed peripherals such as the
ke"#oard, mouse, Bo"stick, scanner, printer, and telephon" de$ices
WAN ((ide Area 'etwork) - A network connecting computers within $er" large areas, such as
states, countries, and the world
Work!ro%p - A collection of workstations and ser$ers on a &A' that are designated to
communicate and exchange data with one another
Workstation - A computer connected to a network at which users interact with software stored
on the network