Network Configuration Flashcards
What is the role of DNS servers in network configuration?
DNS servers resolve domain names to logical IP addresses, with local DNS servers preferred for faster access.
What is the difference between a host name and a domain name?
A host name identifies a computer on a network (e.g., “elvis”), while a domain name represents a group of computers in a subnet (e.g., csfac8.uwindsor.ca).
What is an IP address and how is it used?
An IP address is a logical address used for WAN communication and routing, typically assigned by DHCP servers.
What does a subnet mask do?
A subnet mask extracts network and subnet information from an IP address, e.g., 255.255.0.0.
What is a default gateway in networking?
A default gateway is the router through which internet-bound traffic is sent, typically one per LAN.
What is the role of DNS in networking?
DNS translates human-readable domain names into machine-readable IP addresses, with multiple DNS servers configured in order of preference.
What is the admin’s role in troubleshooting networks?
The admin sets up, maintains, and diagnoses networks, determining whether issues are caused by configuration errors or hardware failures.
What does a “ping” test in network troubleshooting?
A “ping” checks local host availability and helps diagnose DNS or IP connectivity issues.
How does ping work?
Ping sends ICMP Echo Request packets to a destination and receives Echo Reply packets, calculating round-trip time.
How do you view network configuration in Windows (2000/XP)?
Use the “ipconfig” command to view IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway. Editing is done via TCP/IP properties.
How do you configure networks in Linux?
Use the “network-admin” tool for GUI-based configuration.
What command tracks the route packets take to a destination?
The “traceroute” command in Linux/Solaris and “tracert” in Windows tracks the route and identifies problematic routers.
How does traceroute work?
Traceroute sends packets with a limited TTL; each router decrements the TTL and responds when it reaches zero, revealing the route.
What is 10BaseT Ethernet?
10BaseT Ethernet uses NICs and UTP cables to connect to a hub or switch, with switches often providing NAT.
What is the 802.11g wireless standard?
802.11g wireless requires compatible NICs and a wireless router/base station, with security protocols like WPA encryption.
What is an ad hoc wireless network?
An ad hoc network allows direct communication between devices without a base station, ideal for small setups (2-3 devices).
What is the purpose of packet sniffers?
Packet sniffers monitor and debug network traffic by examining headers and protocols.
How does Ethereal work as a packet sniffer?
Ethereal captures packets on a selected network interface, analyzes headers and payloads, and can display protocols like HTTP and SMTP.
