Know and understand how data is stored, managed and shared using cloud computing

4 Types of Networks and Their Effects 🚀

1️⃣ Local Area Network (LAN) – The Classroom

A LAN connects devices within a small area, like a school classroom. Think of it as a group of friends sharing a whiteboard.

• Fast data transfer – like whispering a secret across the room.
• Low cost – only a few cables needed.
• Limited reach – only inside the building.
• Security is easier – you can lock the classroom door.

2️⃣ Wide Area Network (WAN) – The Highway

A WAN connects devices over large distances, like cities or countries. Imagine a highway that lets cars travel from one city to another.

• Slower than LAN – traffic jams can happen.
• Higher cost – many cables and routers.
• Broad reach – connects schools, offices, and homes.
• Security challenges – more doors to lock.

3️⃣ Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) – The City Map

A MAN covers a city or a large campus. Think of it as a city map with multiple neighborhoods connected by roads.

• Medium speed – faster than WAN but slower than LAN.
• Moderate cost – infrastructure across the city.
• Good reach – connects schools, libraries, and businesses.
• Security depends on city policies.

4️⃣ Cloud Network – The Giant Library 📚

The cloud is a vast network of servers that store and share data over the internet. Picture a giant library that anyone can access from anywhere.

• High availability – data is on many shelves.
• Scalable – add more books (storage) as needed.
• Remote access – read a book from home, school, or a cafe.
• Security – libraries have locks, but you still need a key (password).

Cloud Computing: Storing, Managing & Sharing Data ☁️

📁 Storing Data in the Cloud

Data is saved on remote servers, just like putting a file in a shared folder on a school server.

1. Upload → Server → Backup copies.
2. Redundancy – multiple copies in different locations.
3. Access from any device with an internet connection.

🗂️ Managing Data in the Cloud

Cloud services offer tools to organise, search, and protect data.

• Folders & tags – like organising books by genre.
• Version control – keep track of changes.
• Encryption – data is wrapped in a safe.

🔗 Sharing Data with Others

Share links or permissions so teammates can collaborate.

1. Create a shareable link.
2. Set permissions: view, edit, comment.
3. Track who accessed the file.

Local vs Cloud Storage Comparison 📊

Benefits & Risks of Using the Cloud 🌐

• ?? Benefit: Collaboration – students can work together on projects in real time.
• ?? Benefit: Cost‑effective – no need to buy expensive servers.
• ❌ Risk: Data privacy – personal info might be stored on third‑party servers.
• ❌ Risk: Internet dependency – no access if the connection fails.
• ?? Mitigation: Use strong passwords and two‑factor authentication.

Quick Quiz 🎓

1. Which network is best for a school’s internal file sharing?
2. What is one advantage of cloud storage over local storage?
3. Why is encryption important in the cloud?