Unit 4 - Networks

Question 1

When would you use an ethernet cable in a LAN?

Answer 1

To connect an individual device to the network

Question 2

When would you use a fibre optic cable in a LAN?

Answer 2

To connect different switches

Question 3

T/F: A LAN can only be connected wirelessly

Answer 3

False: You can connect a LAN using wires or wirelessly depending on which is most appropriate

Question 4

A WAN can also be considered as…

Answer 4

a collection of LANs

Question 5

Give 3 ways data is transmitted in a WAN:

Answer 5

1. Fibre Optics
2. Micorwaves
3. Satellites

Question 6

When would a WAN be used?

Answer 6

It could be used by a company which stretches globally .e.g. Amazon

Question 7

What is the difference between a fat and a thin client?

Answer 7

A fat client is a device which stores application software on it, therefore a more powerful machine is needed where as a thin client stores application software on the server so a less powerful machine is used

Question 8

What is the difference between a server and a switch?

Answer 8

A switch will connect multiple devices to a network in the data centre where as a server is used to store and execute tasks, a switch can also connect servers to one another creating a network or shared resources

Question 9

Name two things servers require

Answer 9

1. Large Processors

2. Large Storage Capacity

Question 10

T/F: Switches do not deal with data

Answer 10

False: They direct all data transmissions to the required device

Question 11

What is the difference between a hub and a switch?

Answer 11

A switch will direct data to the specific required device where as a hub is less sophisticated and will broadcast the data to all devices in the network - not so good for MI6

Question 12

Why is a Network Interface Controller (NIC) important?

Answer 12

They enable a device to connect to a network, this may ential a socket and plug or an antenna for wireless devices

Question 13

What is a home broadband hub?

Answer 13

This is provided by an ISP (Internet Service Provider) and are used to gain an internet connection

Question 14

Why is a home broadband hub useful?

Answer 14

It combines the functionality of a router, hub and wireless access point

Question 15

List 5 advantages of a computer network

Answer 15

1. Shared use of peripheral devices saves money
2. Files can be shared easily
3. Security is good
4. Data is easy to backup and is stored on a file server
5. Users can access their data from any machine

Question 16

List 4 disadvantages of a computer network

Answer 16

1. Purchasing the required software and hardware is expensive
2. Managing a large network is complicated and often requires a network manager
3. If the file server breaks all files become inaccessible
4. Security issues include: hackers, malware, data breaches and theft

Question 17

List 3 advantages of wired networks

Answer 17

1. More secure as someone has to be present to hack it
2. More reliable then most wireless networks
3. Signals cannot be interfered with

Question 18

What is the difference between a switch and a server?

Answer 18

Switches are used to connect devices and transfer information where as servers are used to store information and carry out processes