Types of Networks Flashcards
What is a Standalone Device?
A standalone device is a self-contained device or system, in that it can perform its function without the need of another device, computer or connection (eg. a radio).
What is a network?
A network is a collection of devices and computers linked through various communication channels, which allow users to communicate and share files with each other.
What 5 devices does a successful network need to operate?
The 5 devices:
- A sending device that initiates an instruction to transmit data, instructions or information
- A communication device that forwards this data as packets via a communications channel
- A communications channel for the digital signals to travel
- A communications device that receives signals from the communications channel and forwards the packets to the receiving device
- A receiving device that accepts the packets and acts according to it
What are the advantages of networks?
Advantages of networks:
- Allows the sharing of data and information
- Allows communication between users
- Allows the sharing of hardware and software
What are the disadvantages of networks?
Disadvantages of networks:
- Costly, due to the need of additional communication equipment and cables
- Possibility of data theft through hacking or malware
- Requires skilled network administrators to set up and troubleshoot problems
What are the advantages of a LAN?
Advantages of a LAN:
- All connected LAN devices can communicate with each other
- All computers can share peripherals such as scanners
- Each networked computer can interact with each other (eg. multiplayer games)
What is one difference between a LAN and a WAN?
A WAN uses third-party transmission media (eg. an internet connection belonging to another company like Optus), to connect the two locations. Because it is a third-party transmission, WANs lose some control over the network and the potential for data threats increases.
What is a “node?”
A node is a device that is connected to a network (i.e. a connection point).
What are two common types of network architecture?
Two common types of network architecture:
- Peer-to-Peer Network
- Client-Server Network
What is network architecture?
Network architecture refers to the layout of the network, including the hardware, software, protocols and transmission media used.
What is a P2P network?
A P2P network is a simple, inexpensive network that shares hardware, data or information that is located on any other computer on a network.
What are 2 advantages of a P2P Network?
2 advantages of a P2P network:
- No need for a network operating system
- Much easier to set up than a client-server network as it doesn’t need specialist knowledge.
What are 2 disadvantages of a P2P network?
2 disadvantages of a P2P network:
- Files and folders can’t be centrally backed up
- Each individual in a P2P network has to ensure viruses aren’t introduced.
What is a Client-Server network?
A Client-Server network is where a server controls access to the hardware and software on the network, and provides a centralized storage area for programs, data and information. The computers are called the ‘Clients’ that rely on the server for resources such as file sharing and email management.
What are 2 advantages of a Client-Server network?
2 advantages of a Client-Server network:
- Centralized management makes it easier to control network resources
- Improved scalability, as adding new clients or upgrading servers is straightforward.
