2.1- Networks Flashcards
3G
Third generation of cellular communications technology
4G (LTE)
Latest generation of cellular communications technology
Access point
aka Base station. Consists of sender/transciever and antenna which transmits and receives radio waves so that the wireless enabled devices can communicate with one another and the network
Bandwidth
Total amount of data that can be transferred from one point to another in given period of time
HAN
Home Area Network: Small network within home environment
Hotspot
An area, usually in public space (such as airport, restaurant, hotel lobby) where people may receive or be granted WiFi access from access point to connect wirelessly to Internet via wired network
LAN
Local Area Network: network that connects computers in small area (such as school, university campus or company offices) in one building to one another
Location-based computing
Computing where the physical location of objects and people are determined and used
Modem
Device that converts the data or signal from computer to format that can be transmitted over communication channel
NIC
Network Interface Controller: device that allows computer to communicate with network wirelessly or via a cable connecting the network to NIC in computer
PAN
Personal Area Network: Computer network with range of a few metres that is organised around an individual
Router
Device that makes it possible for networks to communicate over Internet, by directing data to correct destination
Switch
Device used to connect computers in network to a central location so that communication can occur- directs the traffic between devices connected to network
Topology
Layout of the physical connection of the computers in a network
VPN
Virtual Private Network: Network implemented via public network such as Internet. Enables user to log onto network from remote location with the same benefits of privacy and security as LAN
