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Computer Science > Chapter 2. Communication > Flashcards

Chapter 2. Communication Flashcards

1
Q

What is a network topology

A

An arrangement of devices in a network

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2
Q

What is a network

A

A link between two or more computers through which they communicate, enabling them to share data, software and hardware.

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3
Q

Advantages of a network

A
  • Enables files and data to be backed up centrally
  • Allows sharing copies of software(multiuser licenses are cheaper)
  • Allow multi-access to files
  • Hardware resources such as printers and internet connections can be shared
  • Communicate with network users (instant messaging, email, video conferencing
  • Licences are cheaper when used on a network than on standalone machines
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4
Q

Disadvantages of networks

A
  • More difficult to secure as compared to standalone systems and they are vulnerable to hacking, phishing and pharming
  • If server breaks down, work comes to a standstill
  • Viruses spread more easily in network environments
  • Managing large networks can be a complex task
  • There’s an expensive initial investment in infrastructure(servers and cabling)
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5
Q

Expand the acronym APRAnet

A

Advanced Research Projects Agency Network

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6
Q

What are the advantages of a bus network

A
  1. Continues to function even when one node fails
  2. Easy to expand - just adding more nodes
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7
Q

What are the disdvantages of a bus network

A
  1. Fails if the main cable fails
  2. Performance detiriorates under heavy load
  3. Not secure since each packect passes through every node
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8
Q

Differentiate between a hub and a switch

A

A hub sends packets to all devices in a star configuration but only the node with the matching address accepts the packet whilst a swith only sends the packets to the node with the right address

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9
Q

Advantages of a star topology

A
  1. Data collisions are greatly reduced
  2. More secure since security methods can be applied to the central node
  3. Easy to improve just by installing an upgraded hub
  4. If one connection is broken then only one node is affected
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10
Q

Disadvantages of star topologies

A
  1. Initial installation costs are high
  2. If the hub/switch fails, the whole network goes down
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11
Q

Give the names and explain the two types of data transfer incorporated by mesh networks

A
  1. Routing
    The nodes are given routing logic and data is directed to its destination by the shortest route possible
  2. Flooding
    Data is just send via every node to its destination
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12
Q

What are the advantages of mesh networks

A
  • Easy to identify where faults occured
  • Broken links do not affect the whole network
  • Good privacy and security
  • Relatively easy to expand
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13
Q

What are the disadvantages of mesh networks

A
  • A large amount of cabling is required
  • Set-up and maintenance is difficult and complex
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14
Q

What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?

A
  • A LAN connects computers within a limited area such as a home, school, or office building.
  • Uses Ethernet or Wi-Fi for connections.
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15
Q

What are the characteristics of a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

A
  • A WAN covers a large geographic area.
  • Uses leased telecommunication lines.
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16
Q

What is the purpose of a router?

A
  • Directs data packets between networks.
  • Connects multiple devices to the internet.
17
Q

What is the difference between a client-server and a peer-to-peer network model?

A
  • Client-server: Central server manages resources and services.
  • Peer-to-peer: Each computer can act as a server and client.
18
Q

What are the benefits of using a client-server model?

A
  • Centralized management of resources and security.
  • Easier to backup and manage data.
19
Q

What are the benefits of using a peer-to-peer network?

A
  • Easier to set up and manage.
  • No need for a dedicated server.
20
Q

What is the role of a Network Interface Card (NIC)?

A
  • Provides the hardware interface between a computer and a network.
  • Converts data into a format suitable for transmission over a network.
21
Q

What are the common network topologies?

A
  • Bus: All devices share a single communication line.
  • Star: All devices are connected to a central hub.
  • Mesh: Devices are interconnected with many redundant connections.
22
Q

What is the difference between wired and wireless networks?

A
  • Wired networks use physical cables for data transmission.
  • Wireless networks use radio waves for data transmission.
23
Q

What are the advantages of using fiber-optic cables over copper cables?

A
  • Higher bandwidth and faster data transmission.
  • Less susceptible to electromagnetic interference.
24
Q

What is cloud computing?

A
  • Accessing and storing data and applications over the internet instead of on local servers or personal devices.
  • Offers scalability and remote access.
25
Q

What are the types of IP addresses?

A
  • IPv4: 32-bit address format.
  • IPv6: 128-bit address format.
26
Q

What is the purpose of the Domain Name System (DNS)?

A
  • Translates human-readable domain names (e.g., www.example.com) into IP addresses.
  • Enables users to access websites using names instead of numerical IP addresses.
27
Q

What are public and private IP addresses?

A
  • Public IP: Assigned to devices that are accessible over the internet.
  • Private IP: Used within private networks and not directly accessible from the internet.
28
Q

How does packet switching work?

A
  • Data is broken into packets and each packet is sent independently over the best available path.
  • Packets are reassembled at the destination.
29
Q

What is the difference between static and dynamic IP addresses?

A
  • Static IP: Permanently assigned to a device.
  • Dynamic IP: Temporarily assigned by a DHCP server.
30
Q

What are the benefits of using bit streaming?

A
  • Enables real-time or on-demand delivery of digital media over the internet.
  • Allows users to watch videos or listen to music without downloading the entire file first.
31
Q

What is the importance of broadband speed in bit streaming?

A
  • Higher broadband speeds improve the quality of streaming by reducing buffering and providing smoother playback.
  • Affects the resolution and frame rate of streamed content.

Computer Science (16 decks)

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