Module 3.1 Flashcards
look at page 169 in textbook
what is a network
collection of computers or other computing devices such as smart phones that are connected by some sort of communication media (cable or wireless) to allow users to share hardware, software, data, information and to communicate
LAN
local area network
WAN
wide area network
reasons for having a network
-fast, efficient communication
-sharing of hardware resources
-centralisation of data
-transfer of files
-leisure
-increased control and security
-flexible access
explain how communication through a network is not more efficient
-school, email/SMSs used teachers communicate with parents
-chat application gives 2/more people ability have conversation over phone/computer which can be anywhere via internet
-video conferencing allows 2/more people hold online conferences different locations transmits audio and video as if they in the same room
what is the reason for sharing hardware resources through a network
cheaper than buying devices for each computer
how does centralisation of data in a network
allow others to access & use files/folders on a central computer as if file was on yours
easier manage integrity of data
an example of centralisation of data in a network
a school administration stored on file server which teachers can then enter marks on the same database
how does a network allow for the transfer of files
without the limitations of using flash drives/CDs from computer to computer anywhere in the world
how can one partake in leisure over a network
LAN parties is when people get together to play games on a network
DVRs and video game consoles supported to wired or wireless networks
how can a network increase control and security
data of an organisation stored centrally on one/more computers which makes it easy to keep the data secure and backed up on a regular basis which is easier to control who has access and antivirus software automatically updated
how is the flexible access and network related
users access information from any computer on a network and many people can collaborate on the same project and with internet work same data from anywhere
disadvantages of a network
-higher level of expertise necessary to manage & may need hire network administrator manage network
-higher level of security needs set up ensure information confidential and not stolen. strict file access
-malware spreads quickly
-problem potentially no users can work, print or access data
-central fault cause loss of data
components of a network
-server
-switch
-computer
-printer
-communication media
-software
what hardware components are linked in a network
computers, printers, scanners, switch, NIC
what does a server in a network provide
shared resources (files, email, internet facilities, printers)
used to store all user’s files instead each user saving work on hard drives (any computer of network)
large hard drive and RAM
NIC
network interface controller
what does an NIC do
links network cable to computer & to allow communication of computer with network
how does an NIC work
converts data sent from computer into format sent across network
where do you find an NIC
built into the motherboards and only edge of interface seen at back of computer
what can be done if the onboard controller gets damaged
separate NIC can plugged into expansion slot on motherboard
what is a switch
hardware device used connect computers on network so that communication can occur
how does a switch connect
one end network cable plugs into NIC of computer and plugs into port on switch
how does a switch work
send data received one computer to specific computers must be sent to and manages communication on network efficiently
what is the data transfer rate controlled by
NIC
what does 10/100/1000 specification mean
10Mbps/100Mbps/1000Mbps
when are there many switches in a network
in a large organisation
what are the 2 types of wired communications in a network
UTP and fiber optic
UTP
unshielded twisted pair