Computer Networks Lecture Notes

A network is simply a collection of computers or other hardware devices that are connected together using special hardware and software, to allow them to exchange information and cooperate.

The main purpose of a network is to share resources.

Device

<p>Intermediate network devices</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A repeater is a network device used to regenerate a signal. It amplifies or regenerates signals that have been weakened or distorted due to transmission loss, ensuring signal strength over long distances.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A network hub is a node that broadcasts data to every computer or device connected to it. It acts as a multi-port repeater, amplifying signals and transmitting them to all connected devices.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A bridge is used to divide LANs into multiple segments. It makes intelligent decisions about whether to pass signals onto the next segment of a network, determining the best path for data based on destination MAC addresses.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A network interface card (NIC) is a card plugged into a motherboard that provides ports for network media connections. It allows computers to be joined together in a network, enabling communication and data transfer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>A proxy server is a server that isolates internal network computers from the internet. It allows hosts to make indirect network connections to other network services, acting as an intermediary between a host and a remote network service.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The primary types of network transmission media are copper cable, fiber optic cable, and wireless.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The two primary types of copper cables are twisted pair and coaxial cable.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Fiber-optic cable is a cable consisting of a center glass core surrounded by layers of plastic that transmits data using light rather than electricity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Wireless media uses electromagnetic waves, such as radio waves, to transmit data. It utilizes frequencies ranging from radio waves to microwaves, enabling communication without physical cables.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>An intranet is a private network within an organization, accessible only to its members or authorized individuals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Common methods for connecting to the internet include DSL (Digital Subscriber Line), cable, satellite, and cellular.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Cable internet delivers internet access over the same coaxial cable used for cable television, providing high bandwidth and speed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Satellite internet uses satellites in orbit to provide internet access to remote areas without the need for physical cables, offering flexibility and wide reach.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Cellular internet utilizes the cellular network to provide internet access, allowing users to connect to the internet using their cellular devices.</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The steps involved in sending an instant message over the network include: 1. The message is converted to binary code. 2. The NIC generates signals based on the binary code. 3. The message is passed along LAN devices. 4. The message exits the local area network via a router. 5. The message is sent to other networks through routers that interconnect them. 6. The message is passed among local devices at the destination. 7. The destination device converts the bits into human-readable form for the intended recipient.</p> Signup and view all the answers