Networking
Lesson Objectives
At the end of this lesson, students should be able to:
1. Define the term Network.
2. Differentiate between the different types of networks.
3. Explain the evolution of mobile networks.
What is a Network?
•A network is a group of 2 or more
computers linked together to share data
and resources.
Previous
Knowledge
• Data Communication is the transfer of data and
information between two or more computers
• These computers form a network to share files and
resources such as hard disk drives, databases, modems,
printers and application software
• Data can be transmitted between these computers in two
ways
• Upload: Sending data from your computer to another
computer on the network or the Internet
• Download: Receiving data on your computer from
another computer on the network or the Internet
Types of Networks
LAN
A Local Area Network is a
network of interconnected
computers and devices within a
limited geographical area, such
as a single building, office, or
campus.
MAN
A Metropolitan Area Network is a
network that covers a larger
geographical area than a LAN
but is smaller than a WAN. A
MAN connects computers across
big cities.
WAN
A Wide Area Network is a
network that covers a broad
area, connecting LANs or other
networks across long distances,
often spanning cities, countries,
or even continents.
Mobile/Cellular Networks
• A mobile network is a radio-based system that
uses cell towers (base stations) to transmit and
receive signals from mobile devices, enabling
communication over long distances without
physical connections like wires.
• Radio–based refers to the network utilizing a
wireless transmission medium called radio waves
to transmit information.
Mobile/Cellular Networks
• They are called common carriers because they
are public networks that provide services to
everyone.
• Mobile network infrastructure includes cell towers
and base stations.
Let us look at how
Mobile/Cellular Networks
function.
https://youtu.be/5XIX0wF5DLA?si=jiVKFiFJsndoy-ry
Mobile Networks
• Mobile networks have evolved significantly over the past
few decades, moving from basic voice communication to
high-speed internet and advanced data services.
• Each new "generation" (G) of mobile networks has
brought improvements in speed, connectivity, and
features.
Overview of Mobile Network Generations
Importance of Mobile Communication
Technology
• Mobile communication technology allows people to
communicate wirelessly using devices like
smartphones, tablets, or laptops.
• It relies on mobile networks that send and receive
data through radio waves, making it possible to
make phone calls, send texts, use the internet, and
access apps without needing to be connected to a
physical cable.
Importance of Mobile Communication
Technology
1. Global Connectivity:
• Mobile networks allow people to connect across the world in real time,
helping families, friends, and businesses stay in touch no matter where
they are.
• This has made the world more connected, shrinking distances and
breaking barriers.
• Mobile networks have made social media platforms (like Instagram,
Twitter, TikTok) accessible everywhere, allowing people to share
experiences, build communities, and communicate on the go.
• This constant connectivity has created new opportunities for influencers,
content creators, and online businesses.
Importance of Mobile Communication
Technology
2. Access to Information:
• With mobile networks, people can access information
instantly, whether it's news, weather updates, or health
advice.
• Students can research topics for school, and
professionals can stay updated with the latest industry
news from anywhere.
Importance of Mobile Communication
Technology
3. Boosting Businesses:
• Many businesses depend on mobile networks to manage
operations, reach customers, and offer services. Apps and
mobile websites help companies sell products, provide
customer support, and advertise to a global audience.
• Mobile payments and banking apps have also revolutionized
how people manage money, allowing instant transactions and
transfers.
Suitability of Mobile Networks for
Different Applications
• Education:
• Mobile networks allow students and teachers to connect and learn
from anywhere using smartphones or tablets. (Communication)
• With apps, video lessons, and online resources, mobile technology
makes learning easier, especially for those in remote areas. (School
Site)
• It also supports virtual classrooms and educational platforms, like
Google Classroom or Zoom, which are essential for online learning.
Suitability of Mobile Networks for
Different Applications
• Commerce:
• Mobile networks enable e-commerce, allowing people to shop, bank,
and manage money using apps on their phones.
• Businesses can reach customers through mobile advertising, mobile
payments, and social media marketing.
• People can also work remotely using mobile communication, staying
connected to their workplace even when they are not in the office.
Suitability of Mobile Networks for
Different Applications
• Journalism:
• Journalists can report news in real-time, using mobile phones to capture
videos, take photos, or write articles on the go. Reporters can instantly
share stories or updates from anywhere in the world.
• Journalists can access information quickly and easily via their phones.
• Social media platforms, are often used by journalists to reach audiences
quickly and engage with them directly. Journalist can use their mobile
phones to communicate easily with their interviewees.
Let’s Recap
Assessment
Question 1
What does LAN stand for?
A) Large Area Network
B) Local Area Network
C) Long Area Network
D) Low Area Network
Question 1
What does LAN stand for?
A) Large Area Network
B) Local Area Network
C) Long Area Network
D) Low Area Network
Question 2
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a
WAN?
A) Covers large geographical areas
B) Connects multiple LANs
C) Typically found in a single building
D) Can span countries or continents
Question 2
Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a
WAN?
A) Covers large geographical areas
B) Connects multiple LANs
C) Typically found in a single building
D) Can span countries or continents
Question 3
What is a key feature of mobile networks?
A) They require physical connections like cables.
B) They use radio waves for communication.
C) They operate only in small, localized areas.
D) They do not allow for real-time communication.
Question 3
What is a key feature of mobile networks?
A) They require physical connections like cables.
B) They use radio waves for communication.
C) They operate only in small, localized areas.
D) They do not allow for real-time communication.
Question 4
How has mobile communication technology impacted
journalism?
A) Journalists can no longer report news in real-time.
B) Journalists have to be physically present to gather news.
C) Journalists can use mobile devices to capture and share
news instantly.
D) Journalism has become less reliant on technology.
Question 4
How has mobile communication technology impacted
journalism?
A) Journalists can no longer report news in real-time.
B) Journalists have to be physically present to gather news.
C) Journalists can use mobile devices to capture and
share news instantly.
D) Journalism has become less reliant on technology.
Question 5
Concepts Meanings
A mobile network generation known for providing mobile
1 Cell Tower A
internet and advanced data services.
A wireless network that uses radio waves to connect mobile
2 Upload B
devices.
3 Mobile Network A type of network infrastructure that connects mobile devices
C
wirelessly.
4 2G Network A fixed point in a mobile network that communicates with
D
mobile devices.
5 WAN The act of sending data from your computer to another
E
computer or network.
6 3G Network A network designed for global reach, often connecting
F
multiple LANs.
7 Base Station Generation of mobile technology primarily supporting voice
G
communication and limited data services.
Question 5
Concepts Meanings
A fixed point in a mobile network that communicates with mobile
1 Cell Tower D
devices.
The act of sending data from your computer to another computer or
2 Upload E
network.
A wireless network that uses radio waves to connect mobile devices.
3 Mobile Network B
Generation of mobile technology primarily supporting voice
4 2G Network G
communication and limited data services.
A network designed for global reach, often connecting multiple LANs
5 WAN F
A mobile network generation known for providing mobile internet
6 3G Network A
and advanced data services.
7 Base Station A type of network infrastructure that connects mobile devices
C
wirelessly.
