Networks Flashcards
Module of Networks (59 cards)
What are networks?
Networks allow devices like computers, phones, and printers to connect and share information
They make communication easier and help people work together.
What is network topology?
The structure or layout of a network
The type of topology can affect network efficiency and expansion.
What is a communications network?
A vehicle for exchanging information, collaborating, and sharing access to various types of data
Data could include social media, music, audio, video, etc.
Describe Star Topology.
All devices are connected to a central hub
The hub manages communication between devices.
What are the advantages of Star Topology?
- If a device fails, the rest of the network continues functioning
- New devices can be added without affecting the network’s operation
- Reliable and scalable
What are the disadvantages of Star Topology?
- If the central hub fails, the entire network goes down
- The hub may become overloaded when too many devices are connected
Describe Bus Topology.
All devices are linked via a single central cable (the ‘bus’)
Data is transmitted along this shared cable.
What are the advantages of Bus Topology?
- Simple and inexpensive to set up
- New devices can be easily added
What are the disadvantages of Bus Topology?
- If the main cable fails, the entire network fails
- Network performance slows as more devices are added
Describe Ring Topology.
Devices are connected in a circular loop with data moving sequentially from one device to the next.
What are the advantages of Ring Topology?
- Equal opportunity for all devices to transmit data
- Predictable network behavior
What are the disadvantages of Ring Topology?
- A single device failure can disrupt the entire network
- Data transmission can be slower in larger networks
What is Token Ring?
A type of ring topology where a ‘token’ circulates around the network, allowing devices to transmit data only when they have the token.
What is Dual Ring Topology?
A variation of the ring topology with two rings for redundancy
If one ring fails, the other can still carry data.
Describe Mesh Topology.
Every device is connected to every other device, providing multiple paths for data to travel.
What are the advantages of Mesh Topology?
- Highly reliable with no single point of failure
- Data can be routed through alternative paths
What are the disadvantages of Mesh Topology?
- Expensive and complex to implement
- Requires multiple connections for every device
What is a collision in Bus Topology?
When multiple devices try to send data simultaneously on a shared line, a collision occurs.
How are collisions resolved in Bus Topology?
Devices wait for a random amount of time before trying to retransmit after a collision.
What is scalability in networking?
The ability to expand a network without significant issues.
What is a single point of failure?
A part of the network that, if it fails, can bring down the entire network.
Which topologies are cost and complexity effective in networking?
- Mesh networks are highly reliable but expensive
- Star and bus topologies are simpler and cheaper to implement
What are Wireless Networks?
Networks that use radio waves to transmit data without physical cables.
What is CSMA/CD?
Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection, a protocol for managing data transmission over a shared medium.