Networks Flashcards
What is a network?
A series of computer systems that are linked together so they’re able to share resources such as printers or storage facilities.
What do computers on a network enable? Example?
Communication. Email
What are the 2 types of network?
LAN (Local Area Network)
WAN (Wide Area Network)
What are LANs? Where do they supply a connection?
Example? Price? Difficulty to set up?
Local Area Networks. Within a building.
School Network. Relatively inexpensive. Easy.
What are WANs? Where do they supply a connection?
Example? Price? Difficulty to set up?
Wide Area Networks. Large Area.
The internet. Expensive. Difficult.
How do WANs work?
Computers linked through telephone lines, satellites and microwave links.
Advantages of networks? (4)
Expensive peripherals can be shared between users on a network.
Messages can be sent between users on the same site or worldwide.
All users can access files so avoid file duplication.
Network software can be purchased, cheaper than buying individual packages for each machine.
Disadvantages of networks? (4)
Loss in ability to transmit data, even for a short time, can be catastrophic (school wifi down)
Wiring is expensive to buy & install
Software & data on a central server. If the server breaks down, the entire network goes down.
Can be temperamental & require experienced staff to maintain & manage them.
What are 3 popular topologies?
Star, Ring & Bus
What does a terminator do?
Soaks up data that doesn’t go to PC. (PC turned off, gone)
What does a ring topology look like?
Circle with terminals around it. (PCs) SEE NOTES
What does a star topology look like?
Hub in middle with lines going out to terminals. SEE NOTES
What does a bus topology look like?
2 terminators t each end and a line between them with lines (Bus stops/terminals) going out from the line. SEE NOTES
What is wi-fi?
What do you need to use it?
Wireless fidelity
Wireless adapter
Advantages of wi-fi? (4)
Wi-fi devices widely available
Networks can be protected
Has a recognised standard by IEEE
Can be setup without wires
