3 Network Architecture Flashcards
3.1.1
Define network
A network is a group of interconnected computers and devices that can communicate and share resources, typically over a communication medium like the internet or fibre optic cable.
3.1.1
Define LAN
LAN stands for Local Area Network. It is a network that covers a small geographic area (often within a building or a group of nearby buildings).
3.1.1
Define WAN
WAN stands for Wide Area Network. It is a network which covers a large geographical area.
3.1.1
Define VLAN
VLAN stands for Virtual Local Area Network. It is a segmented logical group (a group of devices) within a LAN. This enables the logical group to communicate together as if they were in their seperate isolated network.
3.1.1
Define SAN
SAN stands for Storage Area Network.
It is a dedicated high-speed network that connects storage devices, such as disk arrays and tape libraries, to servers, enabling efficient data storage, retrieval, and management.
3.1.1
Define WLAN
WLAN stands for Wireless Local Area Network. A WLAN is a wireless LAN.
3.1.1
Define internet
The internet is a global network of computers which can exchange data and share information. It operates through decentralised architecture and relies on standardised protocols for efficient communication.
3.1.1
Define extranet
The extranet is a controlled private network within a larger main network that is extended to authorised to external users. This allows them to access specific resources and collaborate while keeping sensitive data protected.
3.1.1
Define VPN
VPN stands for Virtual Private Network. It is a technology which creates a secure, encrypted connection over a public network.
3.1.1
Define PAN
PAN stands for Personal Area Network. It is the smallest and most localized type of network, typically covering a very limited and personal area. Common examples of PAN include Bluetooth, such as wireless headphones.
3.1.1
Define P2P
A Peer-to-peer network is a network of computers which can directly exchange data and resources with each other without the need of a centralised server or authority.
3.1.2
Outline the importance of standards in the construction of networks.
Standards are a set of specifications which are widely accepted. They are crucial in ensuring interoperability between nodes in a network, as they provide structured methods of communicating with each other. Such as protocols and file formats.
3.1.3
What is the OSI model and why is it used?
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model is a framework used to standardise and describe the functions of network protocols in a seven layer structure.
It is used because networks are complicated. The standardisation makes it easier to develop, maintain, and troubleshoot networks.
3.1.4
Identify the technologies required to provide a VPN
Technologies: Tunnelling, encryption
Encryption protocols: IPsec, TSP / SSL
Software / hardware needed: VPN server, VPN software installed on client devices, VPN aware routers
3.1.4
Explain encryption and tunnelling in VPNs
Encryption: It is the process of converting data into a coded format to prevent unathorised access. It is only readable to those with the decryption key.
Tunnelling: It is the process of securely encapsulating (wrapping data with an additional packet for security) and routing it via a VPN server to create a protected communication channel between two endpoints. The tunnelling process hides the IP address.
