S5 Networks Flashcards
What is a computer network?
A group of interconnected computers that can share data and resources.
What are the advantages of using a computer network?
-Resource Sharing, such as printers and files.
-Rapid sharing and updating of data.
-Reduces the need for duplicate hardware and software, cheaper
What are the disadvantages of using a computer network?
-Security Risks: Increased vulnerability to hacking and data breaches.
- Maintenance Costs: Ongoing costs for network maintenance and updates.
- Dependency: Reliance on the network can lead to disruptions if the network fails.
Describe a PAN network
A small network connecting personal devices like phones, tablets, and laptops. Bluetooth is commonly used for wireless PANs.
Describe a LAN network
Connects computers and devices within a small geographical area, such as a school or office. It is usually managed by a single organization.
Describe a WAN network
Connects multiple LANs over a large geographical area, such as cities, countries, or continents. It often has collective or distubuted ownership. The Internet is the largest example of a WAN.
What is the difference between wired and wireless networks?
Wired networks use physical cables (e.g., Ethernet) for faster, more reliable connections, while wireless networks use radio waves, offering more flexibility and ease of access (you can move) but potentially lower speeds and higher security risks.
What are the advantages of wireless networks compared to wired networks?
Flexibility to move devices, easy installation without cabling, and accessible for multiple devices, ideal for public areas or homes.
What are the disadvantages of wireless networks compared to wired networks?
Greater security risks (hacking and unauthorised access), signal interference from other devices or obstructions, and typically slower, less reliable connections than wired networks.
What is a network topology?
A network topology is the arrangement of different elements (nodes, links, etc.) in a computer network. Common topologies include star, bus, and ring.
Explain the star topology.
All nodes are connected to a central hub.
If one connection fails, it doesn’t affect the rest of the network.
Easy to manage and troubleshoot but requires more cabling and a central hub.
Draw a star topoligy
What are the pros and cons of star topology?
Pros: Easy to install and manage. Failure of one node doesn’t affect the rest of the network. Performs well with many devices.
Cons: If the central hub fails, the entire network is impacted. Requires more cabling, which can be costly.
Explain the bus topology.
All devices share a single central cable (the bus or backbone). Data travels along the bus to its destination. It’s simple to set up but can be slow and challenging to troubleshoot.
Draw a bus topology
What are the pros and cons of bus topology?
Pros: Easy to install and extend. Uses less cabling compared to star topology.
Cons: Failure of the central bus affects the entire network. Difficult to troubleshoot. Performance decreases with heavy traffic.
What is a network protocol?
A network protocol is a set of rules and conventions for communication between network devices. Examples include Ethernet, Wi-Fi, TCP/IP, HTTP, and FTP.
