Oki BS1200 Application notes - page 3
BS1200 and Network Access Security.
A Basic Network Primer
MCS v4.0 Firmware v2.0
3
Introduction:
This paper is a brief explanation of some of the many possibilities of installing the BS1200 IVG within the
constraints of Network Access Security (NAS) Solutions that your client(s) may have implemented. It does
not attempt to explain all the deeper technical details behind the technologies involved. However it will
show you the most common forms of NAS and the best recommended solutions for them. Let us begin with
the basics.
What is a Network?
In it’s most basic form a network is nothing more than two or more computer systems sharing basic
resources. (See fig 1) In this example we have a printer connected through a simple cable arrangement port
to port. Parallel port and parallel port to a switch box to share the printer.
fig 1
A SIMPLE NETWORK
The next step up in complexity is a peer to peer based network.
(see fig 2)
This is a network comprised
typically of several computers linked together by a cable scheme and a communications protocol. The cable
scheme links all the computers together as a common group. The communications protocol allows all the
computers to talk together (exchange data) in a common language.
A peer to peer network has several advantages over a simple resource (appliance) sharing network. The
network users not only share resources in a more efficient manner they gain the advantage of exchanging
files without removable media (floppy disks). They can also share a modem (fewer phone lines), exchange
email, print from designated computers thereby needing fewer printers around the workplace, and overall,
working together in an enriched and improved workplace environment.
ETHERNET HUB
DATABASE
SHARED
APPLICATION
FILES
MODEM
PRINTER
INTERNET
FAX
Peer to Peer Network
fig 2