Network Model

We have been given a task to build a physical network model based on architecture, topology and classification of network. The picture showed the model that we have made:

Star topology model

Model of the network topology

Before I explain about the architecture, I would like to explain a meaning of network architecture.

 

Network architecture:

The configuration of a computers, devices, and media on a network.

 

2 types of network architecture: 1. Peer-to-peer network

                                                         2. Client/server network

The above model is using a client/server network. A client/server network in which one or more computers act as a server, and the other computer on the network (clients) request services from the server.

  

Server:  Control access to the hardware, software, and other resources on the network and provides centralized storage area from programs, data, and information.

Clients:  Other computers and mobile devices on the network that rely on the server for its resources

  

Advantages as it works with any size of networks and does not tend to slow down with heavy use. The security also is more advanced than a peer-to-peer network, as you can have passwords to own individual profiles so that nobody can access anything when they want. It still have disadvantages when using the client/server network as complex and costly to set up, need to purchase the server, network operating system and requires  an expert to maintain the network . Another disadvantage is if the server goes down it effects all the computers in the network.

The topology in the model is a star topology. Star topology can describe as it uses a central device (hub, switch) where all the nodes are connected to it using cables. In star topology, all data that transfer from one node to another passes through the hub or switch until it reaches the destination node.

  

Advantages:

• Adding or removing a node does not affect the rest of the star network.

• Failure of one node usually does not affect the rest of the star network.  

Disadvantages:

• If the central device (hub/switch) fails, the entire star network fails.

•     It is more expensive to setup because of the cost of the hub/switch.
  
  
  The classification of network is LAN. LAN (local area network) is a network that connects computers and devices in a limited geographical area such as a home, school computer laboratory, office building.
    
  Advantages:
   
  
  1. Allow users on the network to share resources, such as printers, large hard drives, data, programs, in a limited geographical area.
  2.  Reduce cost because the hardware can be shared.
  
  

Disadvantages: 

•  Area covered is limited.
• As data is shared there is a greater need for security - Exposed to viruses and unauthorized access      

The place that represents the network model is at lecture cubicle. 

Work as a team to made the network model