B2 - Networks

Question 1

What is a personal area network used for?

Answer 1

Used to connect devices within the range of a single person such as to connect personal computers and mobile devices using Bluetooth
or USB cable to sync data

Question 2

Advantages of using a personal area network ( PAN )

Answer 2

• Lower need for cabling which results in lower risk of tripping
• Data is automatically synced between devices ( up to date )
• Only connects over small area between 1/2 people therefore secure for transmitting data between devices

Question 3

What is a local area network used for?

Answer 3

Connecting computers that span over a building / site and share data using an ethernet cable / wifi

Question 4

Advantages of using a local area network ( LAN )

Answer 4

• Peripherals can be shared in a business between many computers ( meaning lower cost )
• Files stored in a central location so users can access them from any computer
• Computer’s can be centrally managed ( higher efficiency ) E.G. installing software

Question 5

What is a wide area network used for?

Answer 5

Used for network lines to connect many LANs which spans over a country or the world

Question 6

Advantages of using a wide area network ( WAN )

Answer 6

• Confidential data can be shared between difference offices with higher security
• Files can be accessed from different locations and shared
• WAN uses private leaned lines rather than broadband internet connections to transmit data resulting in higher data transfer speeds

Question 7

What is a virtual area network used for?

Answer 7

It runs across a public network ( internet ) by encrypting data and is used to access office computers from home security

Question 8

Advantages of using a virtual private network ( VPN )

Answer 8

• Individuals can gain secure access to resources on their work LAN ( remotely )
• Cheaper ( than LAN )
• Encrypted ( unreadable if data is intercepted )

Question 9

What are the main factors affecting the choice of Network? ( 10 points )

Answer 9

• User experience: Easy of use, performance, availability, accessibility
• User needs
• Specification
• Connectivity
• Cost
• Efficiency
• Compatibility
• Implementation
• Productivity
• Security

Question 10

What are factors that can slow down the network and therefore performance

Answer 10

• Servers CPU and memory which can lead to server crashing
• Low bandwidth means low data transfer speeds
• Firewalls which lowers data transfer speeds due to checking packets for threats
• Small office home office networking equipment being used cant provide the performance / professional equipment