Transfer of data in ICT systems

1. Transfer of data in ICT systems Using ICT networks

2. Basic elements of an ICT network There are four basic elements of an ICT network. These are: • communication devices • network software • data transfer media • network standards and procedures

3. Communication devices A network interface card: • prepares data for sending over the network • sends the data • controls the flow of data from the computer terminal to the transmission medium

4. Communication devices A hub: • is used to join computers in a network • allows the connection of cables • allows the sharing of files and Internet access

5. Communication devices A switch: • is a similar device to a hub but more intelligent • can look at a packet of data to decide where it should go • reduces the number of packets of data on a network, which speeds the network up

6. Communication devices A router: • can be wired or wireless • is used to join several networks together • is often used to connect several computers in the home to the Internet

7. Networking software Network software consists of: • network operating systems – specialist operating systems designed specifically for networks • network management software – used to help a network manager run a network by keeping track of software, keeping software up-to-date, installing software security patches, helping to manage the help-desk, etc.

8. Data transmission medium The medium/method by which the data is transmitted in a network can be: • metal wire • fibre optic cable • wireless

9. Standards and protocols • communication software manages the flow of data across the medium • it also establishes certain rules, called protocols, by which computers can communicate • standards are needed so that all network devices work in a similar way