networks Flashcards
(12 cards)
What is a network?
A network is two or more devices connected together with the purpose of sharing resources
This definition is foundational for understanding various types of networks.
What are the two different types of networks?
- Local Area Networks (LANs)
- Wide Area Networks (WANs)
Understanding these types is crucial for network management and design.
What are the properties to understand for LANs and WANs?
The advantages and disadvantages of LANs and WANs
This knowledge is essential for both theoretical understanding and practical application.
What are the advantages of having a network?
- Users can share resources such as printers and internet connection
- Users can access files from any computer on the network
- Communication can be made easier via email and social networks
- Users can share files and folders easily
- Servers can provide centralized backups, updates, and security
These advantages highlight the efficiencies enabled by networking.
What are the disadvantages of having a network?
- Increased security risk to data
- Malicious software can infiltrate the network
- Central point of failure in servers and switches
- Performance can be impacted by the number of users and data
Awareness of these disadvantages is critical for network security and management.
What is a local area network (LAN)?
A LAN is a network which has a small geographical area (under 1 mile)
LANs are typically used in homes, offices, and schools.
Who owns the hardware in a local area network?
All of the hardware is owned by the company/organisation/household using it
This ownership model affects maintenance and control.
What types of connections do LANs typically use?
- Unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable
- Fibre optic cable
- Wireless connections (Wi-Fi)
The choice of connection affects speed and reliability.
What is a wide area network (WAN)?
A WAN is a network which has a large geographical area (over 1 mile)
WANs are used to connect multiple LANs across distances.
How are computers on a WAN connected?
The computers on a WAN are connected via routers
Routers play a critical role in managing data traffic over large distances.
Who owns the hardware used to connect networks in a WAN?
The hardware used to connect the networks together is not all owned by the company/organisation/household using it
Examples include telephone lines owned by telecommunication companies.
What types of connections do WANs typically use?
- Fibre optic cable
- Telephone lines
- Satellite
These connections are essential for maintaining WAN structure and performance.
