1.3.1 Communication: Networks Flashcards
Name the advantages of Networks in general.
- File sharing
- Hardware sharing (i.e printers)
- Communication
- Centralised maintenance and updates
- Centralised security
- User monitoring
Name the disadvantages of Networks in general.
- Cost
- Management (expertise required)
- Spread of malware
- Hacking
Name the 3 types of network. (At GCSE level)
- LAN (Local Area Network)
- WAN (Wide Area Network)
- PAN (Personal Area Network)
On what scale is a LAN connection?
A LAN connection is typically within a single building (i.e a home or business network).
On what scale is a WAN connection?
A WAN connection is over a large area, typically multiple buildings or countries (i.e the WWW).
On what scale is a PAN connection?
A PAN connection covers a very small area, typically broadcast for an individual, to connect a small number of devices (i.e a portable hotspot).
What are the 4 topologies? (At GCSE Level)
- Ring
- Mesh
- Star
- Bus
What are the components you would find in a network? (At GCSE level)
- Router
- Modem
- Switch / Hub
- Firewall
- Node / Computer (Wired and/or Wireless)
- Server
- Wireless Access Point (hehe WAP)
What is the function of a Router?
A router is a device that connects two or more packet-switched networks or subnetworks. It serves two primary functions:
- managing traffic between these networks by forwarding data packets to their intended IP addresses; and
- allowing multiple devices to use the same Internet connection.
Think: Information routing
What is the function of a Modem?
A modem is a bridge between a LAN and a WAN. Information will be converted from one connection standard to the other. This operation is bidirectional.
What is the function of a Switch / Hub?
A Switch / Hub forwards data packets between devices.
What is the function of a Firewall?
A firewall blocks unwanted data from entering the system, or preventing a device from causing harm to other devices on the network.
Caution: Rogue Robots!
What is the function of a Node / Computer?
A node or computer allows the user to access the network.
What is the function of a Server?
A server holds data that the nodes / computers can access, or host services such as music or video streaming.
What is the function of a Wireless Access Point?
A wireless access point converts a wired Ethernet signal into a wireless sugnal that multiple wireless-capable devices (equipped with a WNIC, aka Wireless NIC, such as a phone or laptop) can connect to.
