Understanding Networks

Understanding Networks

I. The Digital Age:

A. What is "digital"?

B. How is it superior to previous forms of communication?

C. Where is technology taking us?

II. Overview of a Computer Network:

A. Components of a Computer:

B. Components of a File Server:

C. Common Network Peripherals:

1. scanners

2. optical jukeboxes

3. CD players

4. fax/modems

D. Desktop Operating Systems:

1. DOS

2. Mac OS

3. Windows/Windows 95

4. Windows NT (workstation)

5. UNIX

6. OS/2

E. Network Operating Systems:

1. Netware

2. UNIX

3. Windows NT (advanced server)

4. Windows for Workgroups and Win95

5. Lantastic

6. "Open" Vs "Proprietary" systems

F. Network Cable Standards:

1. Ethernet (regular and "fast")

2. FDDI

3. ATM

4. SNA

5. AppleTalk

6. IPX

7. TCP/IP

III. Security Concerns:

A. Physical Security

B. Virus Protection

C. Firewalls

D. Encryption

IV. Dealing with Computer Professionals:

A. Know as much as you can before calling in help.

B. Know the bias of the vendor! Computing is a religion to

many.

C. Determine where the profit is for the vendor

D. Avoid multiple suppliers (end the finger pointing game

before it starts)

E. Get multiple estimates and check references