Subject: Advanced Network Technologies

Topic: Network Design

Difficulty: Medium

An access network is a user network that connects subscribers to a particular service provider and, through the carrier network, to other networks such as the Internet.

Some types of access networks:

Ethernet is the most commonly installed wired LAN (local area network) technology. Ethernet LAN typically uses coaxial cable or special grades of twisted pair wires.

Wireless LANs allow mobile users to connect through a wireless (radio) connection. Fibre optic networks such as fiber to the home (FTTH) use optical fiber from a central point directly to individual buildings such as residences, apartment buildings and businesses.

ADSL is a technology for transmitting digital information at a high bandwidth on existing phone lines to homes and businesses.