Basic Networking Concepts

Questions and Answers

What is a network?

Computers that are linked in order to share resources, exchange files, and allow electronic communications.

What does a modem do?

A device that provides access to the internet.

What does a server do?

It serves information to other computers.

What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?

A group of computers and associated devices that share a common communications line or wireless link to a server. Signup and view all the answers

What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

A telecommunications network that extends over a large geographical distance. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between a LAN and a WAN?

A LAN is a group of computers and network devices connected together, usually within the same building. A WAN connects several LANs, and may be limited to an enterprise or accessible to the public. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Internet?

A global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities consisting of interconnected networks. Signup and view all the answers

What is the World Wide Web (WWW)?

An information space where documents and other web resources are identified. Signup and view all the answers

What is a network interface?

The point of interconnection between a computer and a private or public network. Signup and view all the answers

What is a protocol?

A set of rules that governs the communications between computers on a network. Signup and view all the answers

What is a port?

It's a logical connection place, and using the internet's protocol, the way a program specifies a particular server program on a computer network. Signup and view all the answers

What is a firewall?

A system designed to prevent unauthorized access to or from a private network. Signup and view all the answers

What does VPN stand for and what does it do?

Virtual Private Network, which are used to allow individuals access to protected information stored on a private network. Signup and view all the answers

What is a packet?

A formatted unit of data carried by a packet-switched network. Signup and view all the answers

What does TCP/IP stand for?

Transmission Control Protocol and Internet Protocol. Signup and view all the answers

What does peer-to-peer (P2P) mean?

Peers are the computer networks that are connected to each other via the internet. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a P2P?

Files can be shared directly between systems on the network without the need of a central server. Signup and view all the answers

What is a POP (point of presence)?

An artificial demarcation point between communicating entities. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a POP?

A local telephone company's central office. Signup and view all the answers

What is e-commerce?

Commercial transactions conducted electronically on the internet. Signup and view all the answers

What are the different types of security threats that could compromise a computer or network?

Malware, Computer viruses, Rogue security software. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Network Basics

A network consists of linked computers sharing resources, exchanging files, and facilitating electronic communications.
The Internet is a vast global network of interconnected networks that offers diverse information and communication facilities.
The World Wide Web (WWW) refers to an information space where web documents and resources are identified and accessed.

Network Components

A modem enables access to the Internet by modulating and demodulating signals.
A server provides information and services to other computers on a network.
A network interface serves as the connection point between a computer and any network, whether public or private.

Types of Networks

A Local Area Network (LAN) connects computers and devices within a limited area, such as a building, using a common communication link.
A Wide Area Network (WAN) spans a large geographical area and connects multiple LANs, which may be private or public.

Networking Concepts

The difference between LAN and WAN highlights that LAN is restricted to a smaller area while WAN covers broader distances.
Protocols are sets of rules governing communication between computers on a network, essential for data exchange.
Ports are logical endpoints in network communication that allow programs to specify particular services on a computer.

Security and Privacy

A firewall protects private networks from unauthorized access, serving as a security barrier.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides secure access to protected information on a private network for individuals.

Data Transmission

Packets represent formatted data units transmitted over a packet-switched network, breaking down information for efficient transfer.
TCP/IP refers to Transmission Control Protocol and Internet Protocol, the foundational communication protocols of the Internet.

Peer-to-Peer Networking

Peer-to-peer (P2P) networks enable direct sharing of files between computers without relying on a central server.
Examples of P2P highlight the decentralized nature of file sharing, facilitating user-to-user interactions.

Points of Presence

A Point of Presence (POP) is a demarcation point for connection between different communication entities.
Local telephone company central offices commonly serve as points of presence.

E-commerce

E-commerce encompasses commercial transactions conducted electronically over the Internet, representing the digital economy's growth.

Security Threats

Common security threats include malware, computer viruses, and rogue security software that can jeopardize computer and network integrity.

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Description

Test your knowledge on basic networking concepts with these flashcards. Learn about networks, modems, servers, and Local Area Networks (LAN). Ideal for beginners eager to understand computer networking.