Network Fundamentals Flashcards
Understand network appliances, applications, functions, topologies, architecture types, and configuration of devices.
Why are there clients in a network?
Because they are devices that users use to access the network (e.g., workstations, laptops, tablets)
Clients are essential for user interaction with network resources.
How do servers play a role in a network?
They provide resources to the network (e.g., email servers, file servers)
Servers are crucial for centralized resource management.
How does the function of hubs work in networking?
They were older technology that connected devices but not commonly used due to limitations
Hubs are generally replaced by switches for better efficiency.
How do switches differ from hubs?
They are considered smarter hubs that ensure security and efficient bandwidth utilization
Switches can manage data traffic more intelligently than hubs.
What is the purpose of Wireless Access Points (WAPs)?
To enable wireless devices to connect to a wired network using radio frequency waves
WAPs extend the reach of a wired network.
How do routers work in a network?
They connect different networks, make intelligent forwarding decisions based on IP addresses
Routers are vital for directing data traffic between networks.
How does intelligent forwarding work for IP addresses in a router within a network connection?
Intelligent forwarding is when routers analyze IP addresses and other factors to make smart decisions about the best path for sending data packets to their destination, improving efficiency and reducing delays.
Why is information being sent as data packets to their destination?
A packet is a small segment of a larger message. Data sent over computer networks, such as the Internet, is divided into packets for multiple information to be sent in any specified order.
How does a firewalls function?
It acts as a security barrier between internal network and the internet, monitor and control traffic
Firewalls are essential for protecting network integrity.
How do load balancers work?
Load balancing is the practice of distributing computational workloads between two or more computers; divide network traffic among several servers.
Divide traffic equally across a pool of resources that support an application
Load balancers enhance performance and reliability.
How is a proxy server used within a network?
A proxy server is a system or router that provides a gateway between users and the internet as a “filter” for privacy and security reasons.
Because a proxy server has its own IP address (internet server), it acts as a go-between for a computer and the internet. Your computer knows this address, and when you send a request on the internet, it is routed to the proxy, which then gets the response from the web server and forwards the data from the page to you.
Proxy servers can also cache content for faster access.
How is a proxy server being utilized within a server?
When the proxy server forwards your web requests, it can make changes to the data you send and still get you the information that you expect to see. A proxy server can change your IP address, so the web server doesn’t know exactly where you are in the world. It can encrypt your data, so your data is unreadable in transit. And lastly, a proxy server can block access to certain web pages, based on IP address.
Why is the role of Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) useful within networks?
An application that monitors network traffic and searches for known threats and suspicious or malicious activityTo detect unauthorized access or anomalies into the network
IDS are critical for identifying potential security breaches.
Why is the role of Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) useful within networks?
To detect and take action to prevent intrusion
IPS actively mitigate threats as they are detected.
How does Network-attached Storage (NAS) work in a network?
To dedicated file storage systems providing data access to authorized clients
NAS devices simplify data management for multiple users.
How are Storage Area Networks (SANs) described within a network?
As high-speed networks for consolidated block-level data storage, enhancing accessibility
SANs are used for large-scale data storage solutions.
How is a Personal Area Network (PAN) described in a network?
The smallest network type, covers about 10 feet or less
Examples include Bluetooth and USB connections.
How is a Local Area Network (LAN) described in a network?
A common network type in office buildings, limited distance up to 100 meters
LANs can utilize both wired and wireless technologies.
How is a Campus Area Network (CAN) defined within a network?
A building-centric LAN that spans numerous buildings in an area
CANs are commonly found in college campuses or business parks.
How do you describe a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)?
Connects locations across the entire city, larger than CAN, up to 25 miles
MANs are used to connect multiple local networks within a city.
How do you describe a Wide Area Network (WAN)?
Connects geographically disparate internal networks, large geographic coverage
WANs are essential for global connectivity.
How does the client/server model work?
Utilizes a dedicated server for centralized access to files and resources
This model simplifies administration and backup processes.
Why are there benefits of the client/server model?
It provides:
* Centralized administration
* Easier management
* Better scalability
These benefits make it suitable for business environments.
Why are there drawbacks of the client/server model?
They consist of:
- Higher cost
- Requires dedicated hardware and specialized skillset
These factors can limit its use in smaller setups.
