1.3.3 Networks (Networks and Protocols) Flashcards
What is a network?
Two or more computers connected together, with the ability to transmit data between each other.
What are the two types of network?
Local area network
Wide area network
What is a Local area network?
A network which is spread over a small geographical area
What is a wide area network?
A network which is spread over a large geographical area.
Give an example of where a LAN may be used.
School
Give an example of where a WAN may be used.
Large corporations that have offices in multiple locations.
What are the two types of topology?
Physical and logical
What is meant by physical topology?
The physical layout of the wires and components which form the network.
EG: Bus, star, mesh
What is meant by logical topology?
The layout which shows how data flows.
Describe Bus Topology
All the terminals are connected to a backbone cable. The ends are plugged into a terminator.
Bus Topology Advantages
- Relatively inexpensive to set up
- Doesn’t require additional hardware
Bus Topology Disadvantages
- If the backbone fails, the entire network gets disconnected.
- As traffic increases, performance decreases.
- All computers can see the data transmission.
Describe Star Topology
A central node is used, often a switch, to direct data through the network. Other nodes are connected to this central node.
Within a star topology, how can we identify each device on the network?
Each device has a unique MAC address, allowing us to identify each device on the network.
Star Topology Advantages
- Consistent performance, even with heavy network traffic
- If one cable fails, only that single terminal is affected.
- Transmits data faster, giving better performance than bus topology.
- Easy to add new nodes
- No data collisions
