1.3.3 Networks (Security, Hardware and Client/Server) Flashcards
What is a firewall?
A device that prevents unauthorised access to a network.
What is packet filtering?
Comparing packets against a set of rules known as packet filters.
What is a proxy server?
An intermediary which collects and sends data on behalf of the user.
Benefits of using proxies
- User privacy is protected, and they remain anonymous
- It can cache frequently used website data, making it faster to load.
- It can be used by administrators to prevent access to irrelevant information at work or school.
What is a Network Interface Card?
The card required to connect a device to a network. It has a unique MAC address.
What is a switch?
A device used to direct the flow of data across a network.
What is a Wireless Access Point?
A device which allows a device to connect to a network wirelessly.
What is a router?
A device which connects two or more networks together.
What does a gateway do?
When protocols are not the same between networks, a gateway will translate the protocols, allowing networks to communicate with each other.
Client-server
A network which consists of clients connected to a server. The server holds all of the important information and resources. Clients can request to use the server.
Server
A powerful central computer.
Client-server advantages
- More secure as data is stored in one location
- Central backups are carried out. There is no need for individual backups.
- Data and resources can be shared between clients.
Client-server disadvantages
- Relatively expensive to set up.
- If the server fails, the performance falls.
- Trained staff are required to maintain the server.
Peer-to-peer
A network where computers are connected to each other so they can share files. Each device acts as both a server and client, as it can both provide and request resources.
Why are peer-to-peer networks used in piracy?
It is almost impossible to trace the origin of files.
