TOPIC 5 Flashcards
What is a computer network
A computer network is a set of computers which are linked together and are capable of sharing resorces, files, applications and communicate.
Expand the acronym LAN
Local Area Network
Define LAN
Lan covers a small geographical area such as a building and uses cables to connect
Expand the acronym WAN
Wide Area Network
Define WAN
Covers a large geographical area on a global scale, it can use fibre optic and satelitte for transmission
State 3 advantages of networks
Expensive peripherals can be shared such as printers and scanners
Communication between devices and users is possible
Updates can be carried out at one time
State 3 disadvantages of networks
Expensive to intall
Require specialist knowledge to operate
Potential for unauthorised users
What is the world wide web
An applications which runs on the internet
Define the internet
A network of interconnected networks which provides the communication links for data to be transferred between device
Define the internet of things
Physical devices that are conected to the interney. Devices will be able to identify themselves to other devices. They use unique identifiers to communicate.
State one advantage and one disadvantage of the internet of things
Advanvage - increased convenience for users as they can monitor and control devices remotely.
Disadvantage - increased potential for hackers to attempt to access devices in homes.
Define intranet
A private network or website only available to members of an organisation. Not limited by geographical location.
State 3 features of the intranet
- Not accessable by the public - only authorised users can log on and use it.
- Uses pages similar to those used on the internet which still need a browser to be viewed
-Good way of sharing information across an organisation e.g. key dates, polocies or announcements.
What are netowrk communication technologies
How fast data travels across a network is often referred to as bandwith. The wider the bandwith the more data can be carried.
Define bandwith
Bandwith is the rate at which data can be transmitted ( on a network) in a given time. It is measured is bits per second (bps)
How does bandwith affect the performance of a computer system
-High bandwith provides good quality output e.g. sound and picture while video calling or streaming online.
-Low bandwith may cause low quality output e.g. poor sound and pivutre or lagging while video calling or streaming online.
Define Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is a wireless technology which operates on radia frequency, has a medium range, and is affected by physical structures
State three featrures of Wi-Fi
-Moniters smart devices at home
-connecting a smart TV to a home network
-Smart devices have a potential risk from hacking and are not always reliable
State 2 advantages and 2 disadvantages of wifi
Advantages-relatively cheap
-Easy to connect to a range of enabled devices.
Disadavntages - Requires the computer/device to be in rnage of a wireless router
- Not as secure as wired connections
State one adavnatage and one disadvantage of wifi over mobile data
Advantage - More reliable signal
Disadvantage - Signal strength may vary depending on proximity to router
State one advanatage and one disadvantage of using wifi for video calls
Advantage - Higher bandwith meaning better quality video and sound
Disadvantage - Increased power consumption
Why is security a potential problem while using wifi
Wi-Fi routers can be configured to require a password but open access wifi can cause security issues if users sahre important details
Why is range a potential problem while using wifi
The further away that a device is from the router the worse the signal becomes. This might result in slow loading of web pages and even a black spot
