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Questions and Answers
What type of network connects multiple LANs across geographically dispersed locations?
What type of network connects multiple LANs across geographically dispersed locations?
Which network type is typically confined to a single building or campus?
Which network type is typically confined to a single building or campus?
What are physical components that facilitate communication between devices on a computer network called?
What are physical components that facilitate communication between devices on a computer network called?
Which type of network covers a larger geographical area than a LAN but smaller than a WAN?
Which type of network covers a larger geographical area than a LAN but smaller than a WAN?
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What is the main purpose of a Local Area Network (LAN)?
What is the main purpose of a Local Area Network (LAN)?
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Which of the following is NOT a common network device used for communication between devices on a network?
Which of the following is NOT a common network device used for communication between devices on a network?
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Which network device operates at the physical layer and amplifies signals to extend their reach?
Which network device operates at the physical layer and amplifies signals to extend their reach?
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What is the main function of a bridge in a computer network?
What is the main function of a bridge in a computer network?
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Which protocol defines rules for transferring files between computers over a network?
Which protocol defines rules for transferring files between computers over a network?
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What is the role of a network firewall in cybersecurity?
What is the role of a network firewall in cybersecurity?
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Which topology arranges network devices in a circular path with data passing sequentially from one to the next?
Which topology arranges network devices in a circular path with data passing sequentially from one to the next?
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What is the function of a gateway in a computer network?
What is the function of a gateway in a computer network?
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Study Notes
Introduction
Networks are essential elements of modern computing systems. They allow for seamless communication between devices and enable the sharing of resources and information. Understanding the various components that make up a network, such as network devices, network protocols, network security measures, and network topologies, is crucial for anyone interested in or working with computer networks.
Types of Networks
There are three types of networks based on their scope: Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), and Metropolitan Area Network (MAN).
Local Area Network (LAN)
A LAN is a network covering a small geographical area, typically confined to a single building or campus. It is owned and maintained by a single organization and provides fast and reliable file sharing, printing, and communication among devices connected to the network.
Wide Area Network (WAN)
A WAN connects multiple LANs across geographically dispersed locations, typically owned and operated by private institutions for their own use. An example of a public WAN is the internet itself.
Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
A MAN is a network covering an even larger geographical area than LAN but smaller than WAN. It typically connects several LANs within a city or metropolitan region.
Network Devices
Network devices, also known as networking hardware, are physical components that facilitate communication between devices on a computer network. Common types of network devices include repeaters, hubs, bridges, switches, routers, gateways, and Brouters.
Repeater
A repeater operates at the physical layer and strengthens and resends signals to extend their reach.
Hub
Hub is a physical device used to join multiple devices on the same LAN. Unlike switches, routers, and bridges, hubs broadcast messages received from one port to all remaining ports without examining frames.
Bridge
Bridges operate at the data link layer and aggregate network segments while controlling traffic that moves between them.
Switch
Switches are more intelligent than hubs and selectively forward incoming data packets based on hardware addresses, improving network efficiency and security.
Router
Routers route data packets across networks, making decisions based on logical IP addresses.
Gateway
Gateways connect discrete networks or systems using different protocols, enabling communication between otherwise separate systems.
Brouter
Brouters combine features of bridges and routers, allowing them to act as both data link layer devices (bridges) and network layer devices (routers).
Access Points (AP)
Access points (AP) send and receive wireless signals over radio frequencies and enable wireless devices to join the local network.
Modem
Modems convert signals from one format to another, enabling communication across different mediums such as cable, fiber, or wireless networks.
Network Security
Network security refers to measures taken to protect network resources against unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. Key elements of network security include firewalls, intrusion detection systems, antivirus software, and encryption technologies.
Network Protocols
Protocols define rules for communicating data between connected devices on a network. Some common protocols include Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), Internet Protocol (IP), File Transfer Protocol (FTP), Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP), Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP), and Domain Name System (DNS).
Network Topologies
Network topology refers to the arrangement of devices in a network. Common types of network topologies include star, bus, ring, mesh, and hybrid. These different topologies affect the speed, reliability, and ease of management of the network. Choosing the best topology for a given scenario depends on factors such as distance between devices, cost, and desired level of redundancy.
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Description
Test your knowledge on essential elements of computer networks including network types, devices, security, protocols, and topologies. Explore topics such as LAN, WAN, MAN, repeaters, hubs, switches, routers, firewalls, TCP/IP, and network topologies like star, bus, ring, and mesh.
