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2.3 Benefits and applications

While the benefits of Computer networks may be described in generic terms, at least 2 specific local area networks and 2 wide area networks must be described.

The following apply to all types of network both local area networks and wide area networks, in both public and private sectors.

Generic benefits:

Local area networks and Wide area networks

Shared resources (print sharing)

Improved communication (e-mail)

Access to corporate or global information (Internet/intranet)

File transfer capability

Specific benefits and applications:

The following four case studies describe examples of contemporary networks. All four case studies should be undertaken. During the exploration of the case studies in Stage 2, the tutor should ensure that the emphasise is placed on the APPLICATIONS and BENEFITS of the Computer networks.

It should be kept in mind that these same case studies were used to illustrate the CHARACTERISTICS of the Computer networks in Stage 1.

The case studies cover two specific applications of local area network (including intranets) and two applications of wide area network (including the Internet).

Case study 1 (LAN) MacPherson International Knitwear

Case study 2 (LAN - Intranet) Seawell College

Case study 3 (WAN) Wilma, the medical representative

Case study 4 (WAN - Internet) Dali on the Internet

As time passes, the case studies should be updated as relevant applications arise.

2.4 Social, ethical and legał implications

The social and ethical implications depend on the particular strata of society in which the individual lives. The legał implications will be considered in the context of British law and the fact that as there are no electronic national boundaries on wide area networks this makes application of intemational law extremely complex and currently unclear.

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Computing Support Materials: Computer Networking (H)