Networks Flashcards
(30 cards)
What is Networking?
Computer networking is the practice of connecting computers and other devices to share resources (like files and printers), access the internet, and communicate efficiently.
What is the main purpose of networking?
The main purpose is to enable data sharing, communication, and resource utilization among multiple devices.
What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?
A LAN is a network that connects computers within a limited area like a home, school, or office building.
Define a Wide Area Network (WAN).
A WAN spans a large geographic area, such as a country or the globe, connecting multiple LANs—e.g., the Internet.
What is a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)?
A MAN covers a city or a large campus, providing high-speed network connections across multiple buildings.
What is a Personal Area Network (PAN)?
A PAN is a small network typically used for connecting personal devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops, often via Bluetooth.
Describe Bus topology.
In Bus topology, all devices are connected to a single central cable (the bus). Data travels in both directions but only one device can transmit at a time.
What is Star topology?
Devices are connected to a central hub or switch. Data passes through the hub to reach its destination. Easy to manage and troubleshoot.
Explain Ring topology.
Devices form a circular data path. Each device has exactly two neighbors. Data travels in one direction around the ring.
Define Mesh topology.
Each device is connected to every other device. Offers high redundancy and reliability.
What is Hybrid topology?
A combination of two or more different topologies (e.g., star + bus). It uses the strengths of each to build a more flexible network.
What is the Client-Server networking model?
In this model, clients request services, and servers provide them. Centralized control with dedicated servers.
Describe the Peer-to-Peer (P2P) model.
In a P2P network, each device can act as both a client and a server. It’s decentralized and suitable for small networks.
List two advantages of using a LAN.
- High data transfer speed
- Easy sharing of resources like printers and files
Name two disadvantages of WAN.
- High setup and maintenance cost
- Slower speed compared to LAN
Give an example of a PAN.
Connecting a smartphone to a wireless headset or smartwatch via Bluetooth.
What are the characteristics of a MAN?
- Covers a city or large campus
- Higher speed than WAN but lower than LAN
- Often owned by organizations or ISPs
What device is commonly used as the central point in a Star topology?
A switch or a hub.
How does data transmission work in Ring topology?
Data travels in a circular path from one device to another until it reaches the destination.
Where is Mesh topology typically used?
In mission-critical networks like military or banking systems for maximum redundancy.
What is the key advantage of Hybrid topology?
Combines benefits of multiple topologies, increasing scalability and fault tolerance.
Name two advantages of the Client-Server model.
- Centralized control of resources
- Easier management and security
What is a disadvantage of the Client-Server model?
Server failure can affect the entire network.
What are two advantages of a Peer-to-Peer network?
- Easy and cheap to set up
- No need for a dedicated server
