Computer Networks Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of the Domain Name System (DNS)?

To host websites and web pages

To improve internet security

To translate domain names into IP addresses (correct)

To provide cloud storage solutions

Which of the following correctly describes an IPv4 address?

64-bit address composed of six groups of hexadecimal characters

32-bit address composed of four octets separated by periods (correct)

32-bit address represented by four octets separated by colons

128-bit address used for large server farms

What is a common characteristic of ransomware?

It is a form of advertising malware

It collects sensitive personal information silently

It encrypts data and demands payment to unlock it (correct)

It permanently deletes data from devices

Which technology involves connecting everyday objects to the internet?

Internet of Things (IoT) Signup and view all the answers

What type of security measure is two-factor authentication (2FA)?

A security measure requiring two forms of verification Signup and view all the answers

What best describes the World Wide Web (WWW)?

A collection of websites and web pages accessed via the internet Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes IPv6 from IPv4?

IPv6 introduces IP domains in hexadecimal format Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary advantage of cloud computing?

Enables access to data online rather than storing it locally Signup and view all the answers

Which type of threat attempts to overload servers with excessive traffic?

DDoS Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of incorporating artificial intelligence in networking?

To enhance network efficiency, security, and troubleshooting Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a computer network?

To facilitate data exchange and communication Signup and view all the answers

Which type of network is typically confined to a single building?

Local Area Network (LAN) Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a Wide Area Network (WAN) from other types of networks?

It connects networks across large geographic areas Signup and view all the answers

Which device is responsible for directing data between networks?

Router Signup and view all the answers

What role does a modem play in a computer network?

Converts digital data for transmission Signup and view all the answers

Which protocol is primarily responsible for ensuring the reliable delivery of packets?

Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) Signup and view all the answers

What is an IP address used for in a network?

To serve as a unique identifier for a device Signup and view all the answers

Which protocol manages web communication and security on the internet?

Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP/HTTPS) Signup and view all the answers

Which type of network connects devices within a limited geographic area, like a city or campus?

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) Signup and view all the answers

What is the largest example of a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

The internet Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Computer Networks

A computer network is a group of interconnected computers and devices that communicate to share resources and data.
The purpose of computer networks is to facilitate data exchange and communication, as well as enable resource sharing (e.g., printers, files, internet connections).

Types of Computer Networks

Local Area Network (LAN): Connects computers within a small area, like an office, typically private.
Wide Area Network (WAN): Covers a large geographic area, using leased telecom lines; the internet is the largest WAN.
Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): Connects networks within a city; often used by businesses or government.

Networking Devices

Router: Directs data between networks, enabling internet access.
Switch: Connects devices within a network, filtering data to the correct destination.
Modem: Converts digital data for transmission over phone lines.
Access Point: Provides wireless connectivity within a network.
Firewall: Security device that controls network traffic to prevent unauthorized access.

The Internet

Definition: A vast network connecting millions of private, public, academic, and business networks globally.
History: Originated from ARPANET in the 1960s, became commercialized in the 1990s.
Functionality: Data broken into packets, transmitted over networks, and reassembled on arrival.

Internet Protocols

Internet Protocol (IP): Manages addressing and routing of packets across networks.
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP): Ensures reliable delivery of packets.
Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP/HTTPS): Governs web communication and security (HTTPS).
File Transfer Protocol (FTP): Used for transferring files over the internet.
Email Protocols (SMTP, POP3, IMAP): Manage sending and receiving email.

IP Addresses and Domain Names

IP Address: A unique identifier assigned to each device on a network (e.g., 192.168.1.1).
Domain Name System (DNS): Translates human-friendly domain names (like google.com) into IP addresses.
IPv4: 32-bit address, now limited in availability.
IPv6: 128-bit address, created to handle the expansion of internet-connected devices.

Internet Services and Applications

World Wide Web (WWW): A collection of websites and web pages accessible via the internet.
Email: Digital communication via electronic mail.
Cloud Computing: Accessing and storing data online.
Social Media and Streaming Services: Platforms for interaction, entertainment, and content sharing.

Cybersecurity in Networking

Importance of Network Security: Protects data and resources from cyber threats.
Common Cyber Threats: Malware, Phishing, Ransomware, DDoS attacks.
Security Measures: Firewalls, antivirus software, encryption, and two-factor authentication (2FA).

Future Trends in Networking and the Internet

5G and Beyond: Next-generation cellular networks for faster data transmission.
Internet of Things (IoT): Network connectivity extending to everyday objects.
Artificial Intelligence in Networking: Improves network efficiency, security, and troubleshooting.
Quantum Networking: Future technology for highly secure communication using quantum mechanics.

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Description

This quiz provides an overview of computer networks, detailing their purpose and the various types including LAN, WAN, and MAN. It also covers essential networking devices such as routers, switches, and modems, highlighting their roles in facilitating communication and resource sharing.