Networks Flashcards
What is a firewall?
A firewall is a network security device that monitors and controls incoming/outgoing network traffic based on security rules. It typically sits between an organization’s internal network and external networks like the internet.
In the client-server model, what are clients and what do they do?
Clients are devices (like computers, smartphones, smart home devices) that connect to servers and send requests for information and services.
What is the key difference between hubs and switches?
Hubs repeat all information to all ports making them vulnerable to eavesdropping, while switches forward packets only to the intended device using MAC addresses, improving both performance and security.
How do routers direct network traffic?
Routers direct traffic based on the IP address of the destination network. They read the IP header information and forward packets to the next router on the path until reaching the destination network.
What is the primary function of a modem?
A modem receives digital signals from the internet and translates them into analog signals that can travel through ISP connections (telephone lines or coaxial cables).
What are the three main categories of cloud service provider (CSP) services?
- Software as a Service (SaaS) - remote software suites
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) - virtual computer components
- Platform as a Service (PaaS) - tools for developing custom applications
What is a hybrid cloud environment?
A hybrid cloud environment is when organizations use both a CSP’s services and their own on-premise computers, networks, and storage.
What are software-defined networks (SDNs)?
SDNs are networks made up of virtual network devices and services, including virtual switches, routers, and firewalls, typically hosted on servers at a CSP’s data center.
What are the three main benefits of cloud computing?
- Reliability - consistent access to resources with minimal interruption
- Decreased Cost - virtual services cost less than physical infrastructure
- Scalability - easily adjust resources based on business needs, paying only for what’s needed
What is a wireless access point and how does it work?
A wireless access point is a device that sends and receives digital signals over radio waves to create a wireless network. Devices connect to it using Wi-Fi protocols to send data through radio waves.
What is a MAC address table and what does it do?
A MAC address table is maintained by switches to match MAC addresses of devices on the network to port numbers on the switch, allowing it to forward incoming data packets to the correct destination.
What layer of the TCP/IP model are switches part of?
Switches are part of the data link layer in the TCP/IP model.
What layer of the TCP/IP model are routers part of?
Routers are part of the network layer in the TCP/IP model.
What is the difference between on-premise networks and cloud computing?
On-premise networks keep all devices for network operations at a physical location owned by the company, while cloud computing uses remote servers, applications, and network services hosted on the internet.
What is a CSP and what do they provide?
A cloud service provider (CSP) is a company that owns large data centers globally and offers cloud computing services. They provide technology services like storage and compute to other companies for a fee.
