Networks And Topologies

Question 1

What are two types of networks

Answer 1

LAN(Local area network) and WAN(wide area network)

Question 2

What is a LAN

Answer 2

Computers connected together in a small geographical area. Either wired with Ethernet or wireless.

Question 3

What are the benefits of using LAN(3)

Answer 3

1)sharing files is easier - work collaboratively
2)can share the same hardware e.g printers
3)internet connection can be shared
4)can install and update software on all devices at once
5)can communicate cheaply and easily
6)user accounts can be stored centrally

Question 4

What is a WAN

Answer 4

Connects LANS that are in different geographical locations

Question 5

negatives of using a WAN

Answer 5

1) more expensive to set up
2) connected using satellites, radio links or telephone links
3j specialists required to set it up

Question 6

What are the factors that can affect the performance of a network

Answer 6

• Bandwidth
• Interference
• Number of devices connected
• Number of data collision
• applications opened

Question 7

What is bandwidth

Answer 7

The maximum amount of data that can be transmitted over a network connection at once.

Question 8

What is a client/server network

Answer 8

Where devices are connected via a switch. The clients request data while the server processes the request and responds.

Question 9

What is a peer to peer network

Answer 9

All devices are equal connected directly to each without requiring a central server.

Question 10

Pros of using a client-server network(2)

Answer 10

• files are stored centrally making it easier to keep track of them(1)
• easier to perform back ups(1)
• very reliable because they are always on(1)
• software and updates can be installed centrally (1)

Question 11

Pros of using a peer to peer network(2)

Answer 11

• they are easy to maintain as specialists are not required(1)
• no dependance on server if one device fails the whole network isn’t lost(1)

Question 12

Cons of using client-server(2)

Answer 12

• expensive to set up and needs IT specialists to maintain the network and server.
• server dependance if a server goes down all data of clients is lost.
• the server may become overloaded with too many requests (responds slower)

Question 13

Cons of using peer to peer(2)

Answer 13

• has no central server so devices need to update and install security individually
• is less reliable as data can only be accessed when the user is powering on comp.
• if one device has a virus they all do.