networking curriculum
support CD for senior
secondary studies

networking > types of networks

Types of networks, by size

1. Local Area Network (LAN)
2. Wide Area Network (WAN)
3. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
4. The Internet

Types of networks, by function

1. File serving
2. Application serving / thin client
3. Peer-to-peer
4. Distributed Peer-to-peer
5. Client-server

Network Operating Systems

Just as operating systems control the workings of a PC, such as its use of memory, saving files to disk, running software etc, a network needs software to control its operation. The network operating system (NOS) running on a file server does that job.

A NOS typically handles tasks such as:

• authenticating users as they log in
• allocating resources to users (e.g. home directories, access to shared files and equipment)
• maintaining smooth communications across the network
• running software such as virus scanners to protect users’ files
• controlling access to the internet
• logging network activity and maintaining security
• backing up users’ data

1. Netware/NT Technology
2. Microsoft Windows
3. Linux