How are networks categorized?

Networks are usually classified using three properties: Topology, Protocol, and Architecture. Topology specifies the geometric arrangement of the network. Common topologies are a bus, ring, and star. Protocol specifies a common set of rules and signals the computers on the network use to communicate. Most networks use Ethernet, but some networks may use IBM's Token Ring protocol. Architecture refers to one of the two major types of network architecture: peer-to-peer and client/server (or server-based ). Sometimes they are used in combination.

In a peer-to-peer network, there are no dedicated servers or hierarchy among the computers. Normally, each computer functions as both a client and a server, and there is no one assigned to be administrator responsible for the entire network. The user at each computer determines what data on their computer gets shared on the network.

Peer-to-Peer networks are also called workgroups. In a peer-to-peer network, there are typically fewer than 10 computers. In an environment with more than 10 users, a peer-to-peer network will not be adequate. A dedicated server is one that only functions as a server and is not used as a client or workstation.

It is usual for modern networks in business environments to combine the best features of both peer-to-peer and server-based networks. In a combination network, two kinds of operating systems work together to provide ‘complete network’.

Ex.6 Complete the sentences:

1. Networks are usually classified

using three properties: …

2. Topology specifies …

3. Common topologies are …

4. Protocol specifies …

5. Most networks use …

6. Architecture refers to …

Ex.7 Read and translate the text:

How does p2p work?

The user must first download and execute a peer-to-peer networking program. After launching the program, the user enters the IP address of another computer belonging to the network. Once the computer finds another network member on-line, it will connect to that user's connection. Users can choose how many member connections to seek at one time and determine which files they wish to share or password protect.

Ex.8 Express the main idea of the text. Use in your summary only the verbs:

1. download; 2. …3. … … .

Ex.9 Read and memorize the following words:

1. coaxial [´kƏu´æksıƏl] – коаксиальный, имеющий общую ось

2. axis [´æksıs] - ось

3. copper [´kɔpƏ] – медный

4. wire [´waıƏ] – провод, кабель, проводник

5. shield [ʃi:ld] – экран, защита

shielded (unshielded ) twisted pair- экранированная (неэкранированная) витая пара

6. (to) twist [twıst] – вить(ся), крутить, скручивать(ся)

7. fiber [´faıbƏ] - волокно

optical fiber (fiber optic) cable – волоконно-оптический кабель

single-mode (multimode) fiber – одномодовый (многомодовый) волоконно-оптический кабель

8. antenna [æn´tenƏ] – антенна

community antenna – общая антенна

9. (to) carry [´kærı] – нести

but: (to) carry out - выполнять

10. (to) surround [sƏ´raund] – окружать

11. ground [ɡraund] – земля, заземление

12. approximately [Ə´prɔksımıtlı] – приблизительно, примерно

13. crosstalk [´krɔstɔ:k] – перекрестный, перекрестная помеха

14. (to) insulate [´ınsjuleıt] – изолировать

insulated – изолированный

15. pulse [pʌls] – импульс

16. (to) enclose [ın´klƏuz] – заключать, окружать

17. outer [´autƏ] – внешний

18. distance [´dıstƏns] - расстояние

19. (to) refer [rı´fƏ:] – ссылаться, иметь отношение, относиться

reference [´refrƏns] - ссылка

20. interference [ıntƏ´fıƏrƏns] – интерференция, помехи, влияние

Ex.10 Read and translate into Russian: