Networks And Protocols Flashcards
What is a computer network?
A group of connected computers that can share data, resources, and communicate with each other.
What are the two main types of networks?
- LAN (Local Area Network): Covers a small area like a home or school.
- WAN (Wide Area Network): Covers a large geographical area, e.g., the internet.
What are the advantages of using a LAN?
• Share files and resources like printers
• Centralised backups and updates
• Easier communication between devices
What is bandwidth?
The amount of data that can be transmitted in a given amount of time — measured in bits per second (bps).
What factors affect network performance?
• Bandwidth
• Number of users
• Wired vs wireless
• Type of hardware (e.g., routers, switches)
What hardware is needed to connect to a network?
• Router
• Switch
• Network Interface Card (NIC)
• Transmission media (e.g., copper, fibre optics)
What does a router do?
Directs data between networks and assigns IP addresses.
What is a switch used for?
Connects devices in a LAN and intelligently sends data to the correct device.
What is a NIC?
A Network Interface Card — allows a computer to connect to a network.
What is the difference between wired and wireless networks?
• Wired: Faster, more reliable, more secure
• Wireless: More convenient, easier to connect devices, but slower and more vulnerable to interference
What is an IP address?
A unique address that identifies a device on a network.
What is a MAC address?
A unique identifier assigned to a device’s network interface card — used for communication within a LAN.
What is the role of DNS (Domain Name System)?
Translates domain names (like google.com) into IP addresses that computers can understand.
What is the difference between client-server and peer-to-peer networks?
• Client-server: A central server provides resources; clients request them.
• Peer-to-peer: All devices are equal and share resources directly.
What is the internet?
A worldwide network of interconnected networks using TCP/IP protocols.
What is a protocol in networking?
A set of rules that define how devices communicate on a network.
What is the purpose of TCP/IP?
It splits data into packets and reassembles them at the destination. It includes rules for routing and delivery of data.
What does HTTP and HTTPS stand for?
• HTTP: Hypertext Transfer Protocol — used to access websites
• HTTPS: Secure version of HTTP using encryption
What is FTP used for?
File Transfer Protocol — used to upload or download files from a server.
What is IMAP used for?
Internet Message Access Protocol — used to retrieve emails while leaving them on the server.
What is the function of the application layer in the TCP/IP model?
Provides protocols used by software applications (e.g., HTTP, FTP, SMTP).
What is the function of the transport layer?
Ensures data is sent and received in the correct order using protocols like TCP.
What is the function of the internet layer?
Routes data using IP addresses.
What is the function of the link layer?
Handles the physical connection between network devices and manages MAC addresses.
What is a packet?
A small chunk of data that is sent over a network with a header containing addressing information.
