Our network is an example of a Local Area Network (LAN) connected to a larger network (the campus network and the Internet).
- Networks are valuable when resources need to be shared or information needs to be transferred from one location to another.
- Large files generated by color images can place a burden on a network. Thus, users of network resources need to avoid unnecessary network traffic.
- Intensive file I/O (input/output) operations should be performed locally.
- Work with local image files by transferring from the file server to the local workstation.
- Our building uses ethernet, 100 mbps. Offices are twisted pair (10/100 base T). Fast for single operations but many operations can saturate.
- Fast Ethernet (100 mbps) offers 10 times the bandwidth (i.e. transfer speed).
- University is currently installing some 100 base T links (the twisted pair implementation of fast ethernet.) Eventually we’ll have 100 base T throughout the building.
- FDDI (Fiber Distributed Data Interface) also offers 100 mbps rates. Some implementation on campus.