BEC 4.7

Question 1

Identify the 4 main functions of a DBMS

Answer 1

1. Database development
2. Database query
3. Database maintenance
4. Application development

Question 2

Identify 9 components of a LAN

Answer 2

1. Node
2. Workstation
3. Server
4. Network Interface Card (NIC)
5. Transmission media
6. Network Operating System (NOS)
7. Communications Device
8. Communication/Network Protocols
9. Gateways and Routers

Question 3

Identify the 2 types of networks that can be used to provide WAN communications services

Answer 3

Value added network: Privately owned communication network that provides additional services beyond standard data transmission

Internet-based network: Uses Internet protocols and public communications channels to establish network communications

Question 4

List some of the features of a value added network (VAN)

Answer 4

• Privately owned
• Provides additional services
• Provides good security
• Uses periodic (batch) processing
• May be expensive

Question 5

List some of the features of an Internet-based network

Answer 5

• Uses public communications channels
• Transmits transactions immediately
• Relatively affordable
• Increases the number of potential trading partners

Question 6

What is the difference between an intranet and an extranet?

Answer 6

Intranet - connects geographically separate LANs within a company

Extranet - permits specified external parties to access the company’s network

Question 7

What is the basic difference between a database and a database management system?

Answer 7

Database - integrated collection of data records and data files

Database management system (DBMS) - software that allows an organization to create, use, and maintain a database

Question 8

What is a data warehouse and what is data mining?

Answer 8

Data warehouse - collection of databases that store both operations and management data

Data mining - processing of data in a data warehouse to attempt to identify trends and patterns of business activity

Question 9

What are some advantages of a DBMS?

Answer 9

1. Data redundancy and inconsistency are reduced
2. Data sharing exists
3. Data independence exists
4. Data standardization exists
5. Data security is improved
6. Data fields can be expanded without adverse effects on application programs
7. Timeliness, effectiveness, and availability of information is enhanced

Question 10

What is the basic difference between WANs and LANs?

Answer 10

Distance

LANs normally are within a fairly limited distance, and WANs allow a much longer distance

Question 11

What are some of the similarities and differences between the Internet, intranets, and extranets?

Answer 11

All use Internet protocols and public communication networks rather than proprietary protocols and networks so that the same browsers can be used.Intranets connect LANs within a company.

Extranets allow a company’s customers and suppliers to access the company’s network.