Summary of the article.
Local area networks (LANs) are information systems allowing connection between computers in an organization. Hardware equipment utilized in the connection consists of layer 2 and layer three devices. These networking devices include switches, bridges, hubs and repeaters. This type of network connection is managed and owned privately. Due to the limited number of users in a LAN, they experience fewer faults and enjoy benefits of increased data transfer rates of up to 1GB per second. Wide Area Networks (WANs) are a type of network connection that utilizes multiple LANs to provide connectivity between computers in a large geographical area. Management and control of the networks are distributed across the area it serves. In more often situations than LANs, WANs are prone to security attacks and reduced bandwidth rates due to congestion in the network. The network setup incorporates the use of multilayer and frame relay switches as well as ATM devices using technologies like frame relay and X.25, which is suitable for long distance connectivity. As a result management and setup, costs are higher than those of LANs. Networks can transfer data wirelessly through Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) or be physically connected to the network through Ethernet cables. The physical network is however preferred when the user needs higher bandwidth for gaming or teleconferencing purposes.
The article is significantly relevant to the topic as it offers information that answers the objectives of the chapter. The article has clearly demonstrated the differences between LANs and WANs regarding ownership, setup, security and diversity as summarized in the above paragraph. The article also contrasts the technologies of hardware and network architectures used in the connection of both types of networks. From the article, we can get the topology drawings of these network setup including the information on Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6 and Cat6e Ethernet cables preferred for physical connectivity of nodes in the individual networks. The article gives insights into the various ways to increase bandwidth in the connection. Such include ensuring that nodes are physically connected to the network as maximum speeds for wireless connection are theoretically low than those of wired connections. Besides modern cables, the Cat cables or more advanced cables ensure high data transfer rates. The article has also delved a little on security in both network connections as is in the context of the chapter. The article explains how users of the WANs with access to the internet are prone to attacks.
Critical comments on the article
Security is a primary concern in any network setup. According to the article, the vulnerability of networks to security attacks has significantly increased with a rise in the number of computers connected to the network. In effect, it is evident that to ensure 100% protection in a computer system; one needs to disconnect it from any network connection. Network security issues are as a result of more WANs than LANs, which has a corresponding reduction in fault tolerance of the network. According to the article, an increase in the number of interconnected nodes has a corresponding increase in chances of experiencing faults. The article offers more insights on the factors affecting speeds in WANs. These include equipment used and the type of cabling used which helps in understanding the chapter in the text. Speeds in computer networks form a fundamental part of communication between computers.
