Introduction to Networks and Users Flashcards
How has the use of computers changed over 75 years?
More affordable now, easier to use w/GUI, smaller.
What is the purpose of a Computer Network?
To allow computers and resources to communicate with each other.
What is the most commonly used network protocol?
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) which is really a collection of protocols and sometimes referred to as a protocol stack.
What does TCP/IP stand for?
Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol
What is a LOCAL computer?
The computer physically present with the user.
What is a REMOTE computer?
The computer being accessed over the internet.
What is the Physical level of a network?
How information is carried over the network through bits over some type of Media (physical connection)
What is the most common form of network connection?
UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) and fiber optic cable.
What previously was most common connection for network connection?
Twisted wire pair (like telephone network) and still in use due to affordability.
How does coaxial cable and twisted wire transmit information vs. fiber optic cable?
Electromagnetic waves vs light pulses.
How is information transmitted over long distances?
Radio signals via radio towers and bounces off satellites in orbit.
What is bandwidth?
Transfer rate permissible over the media.
What is a network hub?
Device that connects multiple computers together. Transmission is submitted to each device in the network.
What is a network switch?
More functional than a hub, allows for message to be passed along to only one unique computer, not all computers (although it CAN).
What is a router?
Connects multiple NETWORKS together.
What is a wireless access point?
Can be connected to a hub, switch or router and allows for computers to be connected wirelessly. Many routers also ACT as a wireless access point.
What is the difference between Packet Switched and Circuit Switched?
Circuit switched network requires a full pathway/circuit be established before transmission can begin and maintained throughout the entire transmission. (ie telephone network) A packet switched network, the message’s pathway is only established as it is sent. If received at the wrong location, it is forwarded to another location.
Are more networks packet switched or circuit switched?
Packet switched.
What is a peer-to-peer network?
Peer means that each computer is roughly equal to every other computer.
What is a client-server network?
A client computer requests information from another computer. The server is the computer that takes the request and responds with the requested information.
What are virtual machines?
A software emulator program that permits a computer user to use multiple computers and multiple platforms without the expense of purchasing multiple computers.
