Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Apple iPhone
The iPhone is a combination mobile
phone, widescreen iPod, and
Internet access device.
(Source: Courtesy of Apple
Computer.)
A
computer network
consists of communications media, devices, and software needed to
connect two or more computer systems or devices. The computers and devices on the net-
works are also called
network nodes
. After they are connected, the nodes can share data,
information, and processing jobs. Increasingly, businesses are linking computers in networks
to streamline work processes and enable employees to collaborate on projects. If a company
uses networks effectively, it can grow into an agile, powerful, and creative organization, giving
it a long-term competitive advantage. Organizations can use networks to share hardware,
programs, and databases. Networks can transmit and receive information to improve orga-
nizational effectiveness and efficiency. They enable geographically separated workgroups to
share documents and opinions, which fosters teamwork, innovative ideas, and new business
strategies.
computer network
The communications media,
devices, and software needed to
connect two or more computer
systems or devices.
Network Types
Depending on the physical distance between nodes on a network and the communications
and services it provides, networks can be classified as personal area, local area, metropolitan
area, or wide area.
Personal Area Networks
A
personal area network (PAN)
is a wireless network that connects information technology
devices within a range of 33 feet or so. One device serves as the controller during wireless
PAN initialization, and this controller device mediates communication within the PAN. The
controller broadcasts a beacon that synchronizes all devices and allocates time slots for the
devices. With a PAN, you can connect a laptop, digital camera, and portable printer without
physical cables. You can download digital image data from the camera to the laptop and then
print it on a high-quality printer—all wirelessly.
Ford and Microsoft collaborated to develop the Sync service for in-car communications
and entertainment. The Sync service creates a wireless connection to cell phones and MP3
players. Sync enables car occupants to place “hands free” cell phone calls using voice com-
mands. Users can also request specified songs from a connected media player using voice
commands.
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personal area network (PAN)
A network that supports the
interconnection of information
technology within a range of 33 feet
or so.
local area network (LAN)
A network that connects computer
systems and devices within a small
area, such as an office, home, or
several floors in a building.
Local Area Networks
A network that connects computer systems and devices within a small area, such as an office,
home, or several floors in a building is a
local area network (LAN)
. Typically, LANs are
