3.03 Wireless networks

Question 1

What do wireless networks use to transmit data?

Answer 1

Radio waves

Question 2

What are the advantages of wireless networks over wired ones?

Answer 2

More convenient - can move around while being connected

Cheaper - as fewer wires needed

Question 3

Describe four features of Bluetooth connections

Answer 3

1. Connection: direct between two devices to share data
2. Range: varies, typically 10 metres
3. Bandwidth: low compared to WiFi
4. Uses: mobile/wearable devices, like smartphones, headphones

Question 4

Describe four features of WiFi connections

Answer 4

1.Connection: can connect multiple devices to a LAN at the same time

2. Range: larger than Bluetooth, between 40-100 metres
3. Bandwidth: high compared to Bluetooth
4. Uses: home and office, to connect routers, desktops, laptops, smartphones etc.

Question 5

What does WAP stand for?

Answer 5

Wireless access point

Question 6

What is WAP used for?

Answer 6

Used as a switch that allows devices to connect wirelessly, and needed to set up a WiFi network

Question 7

What forms can wireless NICs come in? (three)

Answer 7

1. Built in to the device
2. USB dongle that can be plugged into a computer
3. HDMI dongles that can be plugged into a TV

Question 10

Describe five factors that can affect the performance of a network

Answer 10

1. Bandwidth - the better the bandwidth, the better the network performance
2. Number of devices: bandwidth is shared between devices, so the more devices the slower the network
3. Wired vs wireless - wired connections are faster and more reliable than wireless, and fibreoptic cables give better performance than copper ones
4. Signal quality (for wireless networks): signal quality can be affected by the range of the device and amount of interference from other networks
5. Hardware choice and network topology

Question 11

Name a disadvantage of a wireless network over a wired one

Answer 11

Wired networks are faster and more reliable

Question 12

What is meant by bandwidth?

Answer 12

The amount of data that can be transferred at a given time (e.g. 500 Mbps)

Question 13

What is the difference between Wi-Fi and the internet?

Answer 13

WiFi allows devices to connect wirelessly to a network with a WAP. That network then needs to be connected to a router for the device to be able to access the internet.