Chapter 21: Networks (Topologies) Flashcards
Part 1
What is a network?
An arrangement of computers & other devices connected together to share resources and data.
What is a server?
A server is a powerful computer that provides services to a network.
Why are networks used?
Networks allow multiple users to access files & the internet, download updates, and communicate via email or video.
What is a LAN?
A network that covers a small geographical area, often a single site.
What is a WLAN?
A LAN in which connected device use high-frequency radio waves to communicate.
What is a WAN?
A network that covers a large geographical area, connecting multiple LANs across different locations.
What is a PAN?
A network used for data transmission over short distances by personal devices, such as phones, tablets, and laptops, usually connected via Bluetooth.
What are the two main network models?
Client-server and peer-to-peer.
What is a client-server network?
Network that has at least one dedicated server that provides services to client computers.
What is a peer-to-peer network?
Network where all devices can act as both clients and servers, sharing resources directly.
What are the four main network topologies?
Bus, Ring, Star, and Mesh.
What is a bus topology?
A bus network uses a single cable to connect all devices, with messages traveling along the cable.
What are the advantages of a bus topology?
Relatively cheap to install, easy to add devices.
What are the disadvantages of a bus topology?
If the bus fails, the whole network fails; more devices slow it down; security risks.
What is a ring topology?
A ring network connects devices in a closed loop, with messages traveling in one direction.
What are the advantages of a ring topology?
Performance is not affected by adding devices; no data collisions.
What are the disadvantages of a ring topology?
Failure of one device or cable brings down whole network, difficult finding fault & adding devices.
What is a star topology?
A star network connects all devices to a central hub or switch.
What are the advantages of a star topology?
Failure of one cable affects only one device, easy to locate faults & add devices.
What are the disadvantages of a star topology?
If the hub/switch fails, the whole network fails; expensive due to cabling.
What is a mesh topology?
A mesh network connects devices to multiple other devices, either fully or partially.
What are the advantages of a mesh topology?
Highly fault tolerant; high performance; wireless mesh networks extend range.
What are the disadvantages of a mesh topology?
Expensive and difficult to manage.
What are the two main types of connectivity?
Wired and wireless.
