Big Idea 4 - Computer Systems and Networks Flashcards
Bandwidth
Refers to the maximum amount of data that can be transmitted over a network connection in a given amount of time.
Computer Systems
Refer to the combination of hardware and software components that work together to perform tasks and process information. They include components such as the central processing unit (CPU), memory, storage devices, input/output devices, and operating systems.
Data Streams
Refer to a continuous flow of data that is being transmitted or received. It can be thought of as a steady stream of information flowing from one point to another.
Distributed Denial of Service Attack (DDoS)
An attempt by multiple compromised computers or devices to overwhelm a target website or network with excessive traffic, causing it to become slow or unavailable for legitimate users.
Fault-Tolerant
Refers to systems or devices designed to continue functioning properly even when one or more components experience failures. These systems are resilient and can recover from faults without significant disruption.
Internet
A global network of interconnected networks that allows computers and devices worldwide to communicate and share information. It provides access to various services such as email, websites, online gaming, and social media.
Networks
Interconnected systems or devices that communicate with each other using wired or wireless connections. They enable data sharing, resource sharing, communication between users/devices over short or long distances.
Packets
Small units of data that are sent over a network. They contain both the data being transmitted and information about where the data should be delivered.
Parallel computing
Refers to the use of multiple processors or computers working together simultaneously to solve a problem. It involves breaking down a task into smaller subtasks that can be executed concurrently, resulting in faster processing time.
Protocols
Sets of rules and standards that govern how devices communicate and exchange information with each other over a network.
Receiver
The entity or device that receives and decodes the transmitted data or information from the sender. It is responsible for extracting meaningful information from the received message.
Redundancy
Refers to the duplication of critical components or information in a system to ensure reliability and fault tolerance. It involves having backup systems or data that can be used if the primary ones fail.
Router
A networking device that forwards data packets between computer networks. It determines the best path for data to travel from the source to the destination based on network conditions and routing tables.
Routing
The process of selecting paths in a network along which data packets will travel from their source to their destination. It involves determining optimal routes based on factors such as speed, reliability, and congestion levels.
Scalability
Refers to the ability of a system or network to handle an increasing amount of work or users without sacrificing performance or efficiency.
Sender
The entity or device that initiates and transmits data or information to a receiver. It is responsible for encoding and transmitting the message.