Hardware and communication Flashcards
(48 cards)
What is a standard in networking?
A standard is a technical specification that defines how software and hardware components must work to ensure interoperability between devices.
Why are networking standards important?
They allow devices from different manufacturers to communicate by following agreed protocols.
What is a protocol in networking?
A protocol is a set of rules that determines how two devices will communicate.
Why are network protocols organized into layers?
To divide complex tasks into manageable parts, allowing systems to be open, scalable, and easier to design, implement, and troubleshoot.
What is the OSI model?
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model is a seven-layer model developed by ISO to standardize communication functions in network systems.
What are the seven layers of the OSI model?
- Physical, 2. Data Link, 3. Network, 4. Transport, 5. Session, 6. Presentation, 7. Application
What is the TCP/IP model?
A four-layer model used in the internet that combines some of the OSI layers into: Application, Transport, Internet, and Link.
How does the TCP/IP five-layer model differ from the four-layer model?
It separates the Link layer into two: Physical and Data Link layers.
Where do IEEE 802 protocols fit in the OSI model?
They map to the lower two layers: Data Link and Physical.
What is Ethernet?
A family of wired networking technologies used in LANs, maintained by IEEE.
How does Ethernet transmit data?
It divides data into frames containing MAC addresses and error-checking data.
What happens when a collision occurs in Ethernet?
Devices stop, wait a random time, and then attempt retransmission to avoid repeated collisions.
How do switches help in Ethernet networks?
Switches reduce the chance of collisions by sending data only to the intended recipient.
What is Wi-Fi?
A certification granted by the Wi-Fi Alliance to devices that meet wireless networking standards.
What frequencies does Wi-Fi operate on?
2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz
What is the IEEE Standards Association (SA)?
A group within IEEE that oversees the development of over 2000 standards, including networking standards like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
What does the IEEE 802.11 standard represent?
It is the standard for Wireless LANs maintained by working group 11 of the IEEE 802 committee.
What does backwards compatibility mean in standards?
Devices following a newer standard can work with devices using an older version of the standard.
What is a protocol stack?
A set of network protocol layers that work together to handle data transmission across networks.
Why is separation of responsibilities across protocol layers important?
It allows developers to focus on specific layers, simplifies troubleshooting, and enables integration of new technologies.
What technologies might be used in internet communication?
Wi-Fi, Ethernet, ADSL, fibre-optic, UHF, satellite, and others.
What role do routers and switches play in a network?
Routers direct traffic between networks, while switches manage data flow within a local network.
How is lost or misordered data handled on the internet?
Protocols detect and correct lost or out-of-order packets, often using retransmission and reordering mechanisms.
What is encryption in data transmission?
It is the process of encoding data to prevent unauthorized access, often used in HTTPS.
