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What is a network?
What is a network?
A group of people or a system of devices connected together to share or exchange data.
What is a computer network?
What is a computer network?
A collection of computing devices (nodes) that are connected together to communicate and share resources.
Which of the following is an advantage of using networks? (Select all that apply)
Which of the following is an advantage of using networks? (Select all that apply)
Which type of network connects devices within a limited area, such as a building?
Which type of network connects devices within a limited area, such as a building?
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What is a node in a network?
What is a node in a network?
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What is a server in a computer network?
What is a server in a computer network?
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A VPN creates a secure tunnel between two or more devices.
A VPN creates a secure tunnel between two or more devices.
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WLAN is a LAN that uses __________ signals to connect computers instead of cables.
WLAN is a LAN that uses __________ signals to connect computers instead of cables.
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Match the following types of networks with their descriptions:
Match the following types of networks with their descriptions:
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Which statement accurately describes a limitation of using a SAN?
Which statement accurately describes a limitation of using a SAN?
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Which of these is a key function of a VPN that enhances network security?
Which of these is a key function of a VPN that enhances network security?
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What role do nodes play in a SAN?
What role do nodes play in a SAN?
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Which of the following is an incorrect assumption about network topologies?
Which of the following is an incorrect assumption about network topologies?
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What is a common vulnerability associated with public networks when using a VPN?
What is a common vulnerability associated with public networks when using a VPN?
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Which of the following statements best describes a disadvantage of using a computer network?
Which of the following statements best describes a disadvantage of using a computer network?
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What distinguishes client computers from server computers in a network?
What distinguishes client computers from server computers in a network?
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In a network, what role do nodes serve in data transmission?
In a network, what role do nodes serve in data transmission?
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Which of the following would most likely lead to network security vulnerabilities?
Which of the following would most likely lead to network security vulnerabilities?
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Why might organizations choose to implement a central file server in their network?
Why might organizations choose to implement a central file server in their network?
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Study Notes
What is a Network?
- A network comprises interconnected devices and users that share and exchange data.
What is a Computer Network?
- A computer network consists of computing devices, or nodes, that communicate and share resources.
- Connections may be wired or wireless, facilitated by communication protocols.
Advantages of Networks
- Enables easy file and data sharing among connected users.
- Allows sharing of resources like printers and Internet access.
- Facilitates communication through various methods like email and video conferencing.
- Centralized data storage simplifies access and backup processes.
- Centralized settings keep user experience consistent across workstations.
- Networks help bridge geographic separations, making remote collaboration possible.
Disadvantages of Networks
- Vulnerability to cyber threats such as hacking and viruses.
- Dependence on a central server; failure leads to system inoperability.
- Complex network management requires trained professionals.
- Initial implementation and ongoing maintenance costs can be high.
- Increased data traffic can lead to network congestion.
Nodes in a Network
- A node can be any device capable of sending or receiving data, like computers or printers.
- Each node acts as an endpoint for data transmission.
Computers in a Network
- Two types of computers in a network:
- Clients (or workstations): Regular computers used by users.
- Servers: Powerful computers that provide services to clients.
Types of Networks
- Local Area Network (LAN): Covers small geographical areas like a building or office.
- Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): Spans several buildings in a city or town.
- Wide Area Network (WAN): Covers large distances, can connect multiple LANs (e.g. the Internet).
- Personal Area Network (PAN): Connects devices near an individual, can be wired or wireless (e.g. Bluetooth).
- Storage Area Network (SAN): Specialized network for storage devices which enhances storage capabilities.
- Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN): LAN utilizing wireless signals (WiFi) for connections.
- Virtual Private Network (VPN): Creates a secure connection over public networks, allowing private data sharing remotely.
Local Area Network (LAN)
- A LAN operates within a limited area, typically using cables or low-power wireless technology.
- Often owned by organizations or businesses for private use.
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
- Connects devices using radio signals, typically covering about 50 meters.
- Utilizes high-frequency radio waves and often includes an Internet access point.
Wide Area Network (WAN)
- A WAN connects multiple LANs across large geographical distances.
- Uses advanced connection technologies like fiber optics and satellite links.
Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
- Larger than LANs but smaller than WANs, typically interconnecting buildings within a city.
Personal Area Network (PAN)
- Facilitates communication between personal devices, utilizing wired (USB) or wireless (Bluetooth) technologies.
Storage Area Network (SAN)
- Focused on high-speed data transfer among storage devices, using disk arrays and tape libraries.
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
- Secures data transmission over public networks by creating an encrypted tunnel.
- Commonly used for employees to connect securely to company intranets remotely.
Storage Area Network (SAN)
- SAN is a network of storage devices connected via high-speed networks.
- Primarily enhances storage capabilities of disk arrays and tape libraries.
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
- VPN establishes a secure tunnel for data communication between devices.
- Extends a private network over public networks, hiding users' IP addresses.
- Facilitates secure remote access to private intranets, commonly used by employees.
- Encrypts all data, increasing reliability of transmission and ensuring anonymity online.
- Reduces equipment maintenance costs as it operates via the Internet.
Network Topology
- Defines the arrangement and structure of connected devices within a network.
What is a Network?
- A collection of interconnected systems or devices for data sharing and communication.
What is a Computer Network?
- A grouping of computational devices (nodes) that communicate and share resources, employing communication protocols for data transmission.
Advantages of Networks
- Facilitates easy file and data sharing.
- Enables resource sharing, such as printers and internet connections.
- Supports various communications methods (e-mail, instant messaging, video conferencing).
- Allows for centralized data storage for easier access and backup.
- Centralizes settings, allowing use across different workstations.
- Overcomes geographical separation, enabling connectivity over distances.
Disadvantages of Networks
- Vulnerability to hacking and virus attacks.
- Dependency on main server; failure disrupts system functionality.
- Network breakdowns hinder task execution.
- Complexity in network management requires professional training.
- Potential for malware spread across connected devices.
- High costs associated with implementation and maintenance.
- Increased data traffic, leading to network congestion.
Nodes in a Network
- A node represents any device (computer, printer) capable of data transmission.
- Functions as an endpoint for data transmission or redistribution.
Types of Computers in a Network
- Clients (workstations) are user-accessible computers for daily tasks.
- Servers are powerful computers providing services to client devices on the network.
Types of Networks
- Local Area Network (LAN): Interconnects computers within a limited area (e.g., building).
- Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): Covers multiple buildings in a city or town.
- Wide Area Network (WAN): Extends over large geographical distances, often combining several LANs.
- Personal Area Network (PAN): Connects devices in close proximity, can be wired or wireless.
- Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN): A LAN using radio signals rather than cables, typically offering a 50m range, affected by physical barriers.
- Storage Area Network (SAN): Connects storage devices exclusively.
- Virtual Private Network (VPN): Facilitates secure communication across public networks.
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Description
This quiz covers the key concepts of networking as introduced in Lecture 6 of the BST12113 course. It explains what a network is and the different types of computer networks, highlighting how devices are interconnected to facilitate data sharing. Prepare to test your understanding of these foundational ideas in networking.
