Networks Flashcards
What is a network?
A group of connected computers and devices that share resources and communicate with each other.
Why are networks important?
Cost reduction, improved efficiency, centralized storage, security
What are the three types of networks
(LAN) Local Area Network
(MAN) Metropolitan Area Network
(WAN) Wide Area Network
What is LAN?
It covers a relatively small area like a school or office usually less than 1 mile wide
What is MAN?
A network that spans an entire city.
What is WAN?
A network that covers a wide geographical area using a combination of fiber optic cables, telephone lines, satellite and microwave technology.
What Terms are associated with networks
Client server network
Network interface card
Firewall
What is client server network
A network where a server provides services to client devices
What is network interface card
Hardware that allows a device to connect to a network
What is a firewall?
A security system that controls network traffic
What is a network topology?
It refers to the pattern formed when computers are connected on a network
What are three main types of topology’s?
Star
Bus
Ring
What is a star topology?
Devices connect to a central hub. It is reliable but hub failure makes the entire network shutdown
What is a bus topology?
Devices share a single cable. Cheap but slows with traffic.
What is a ring topology
Devices form a circular path. Efficient but fails if one device goes down (unless a dual ring setup is used)
What are the different networking devices?
Modem
Hub
Switch
Router
What is a modem
Converts digital to analog and vice versa
What is a hub
Sends data to all connected devices
What is a switch
Sends data only to the intended device
What is a router
Directs data between networks (example connects to the Internet)
What is a network adapter?
External device for network access (example usb adapter)
