Computer Networks Overview

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Questions and Answers

What type of cable is primarily used to connect workstations in a computer network?

Coaxial Cable

USB Cable

Ethernet Cable (correct)

Fiber Optic Cable

Which statement accurately describes Ethernet cables?

They can only connect new technologies.

They are exclusively used for WAN connections.

They are incompatible with Internet Protocol.

They prevent data from colliding. (correct)

What does WiFi stand for?

Wireless Frequency

Wired Fidelity

Wide Frequency

Wireless Fidelity (correct)

What misconception exists regarding the acronym WAN?

It means Wireless Area Network. Signup and view all the answers

In the context of computer networks, what does the 'L' in LAN signify?

Local Signup and view all the answers

How can different types of networks connect?

Through a combination of Ethernet and WiFi. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes WLAN?

It uses radio waves for connections. Signup and view all the answers

What are common devices that can connect via WiFi?

Smartphones and tablets. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is false regarding the relation between LAN and WAN?

WANs use local connections exclusively. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes WiFi as a popular LAN method?

It uses radio waves for wireless connections. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a Local Area Network (LAN) from a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

LAN connects computers within a small geographic area. Signup and view all the answers

Which protocol has largely replaced the Token Ring Protocol due to its efficiency?

Ethernet Protocol Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the Token in the Token Ring Protocol?

It authorizes a computer to send data. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a type of computer network protocol mentioned?

LAN Protocol Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of both LANs and WANs?

They can both utilize wired and wireless connections. Signup and view all the answers

What issue does the Token Ring Protocol address to prevent data collisions?

Regulating the number of tokens in circulation. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of the Ethernet Protocol?

It sends data at a rate of a gigabit per second. Signup and view all the answers

Which protocol is likely the least efficient for connecting computers?

Token Ring Protocol Signup and view all the answers

What defines the connection between two computing devices in a network?

A sequence of directly connected devices. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Token Ring Protocol considered to be outdated?

It has been replaced by faster protocols. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Computer Networks Overview

Computer networks consist of two or more interconnected computers.
Two primary types:
- Local Area Network (LAN): Connects computers within limited geographic areas, such as homes or schools.
- Wide Area Network (WAN): Connects computers across larger geographic regions, such as cities or countries.

Network Connections

Connections can be either wired or wireless.
A communication path between devices involves a sequence starting from a sender to a receiver.

Computer Network Protocols

Protocols define communication standards for networked computers.
Three main protocols:
- Token Ring Protocol:
  - Rarely used, has been mostly replaced by Ethernet.
  - Wired LAN setup connecting devices in a ring.
  - Data transfer initiated by sending a "Token" signal, limiting data transmission to authorized computers only.
  - Inefficient due to delays as each station must wait its turn to send data.
- Ethernet Protocol:
  - Widely used wired LAN protocol, capable of data rates of up to 1 gigabit per second.
  - Utilizes a single common cable (Ethernet Cable) for communication among connected devices.
  - Backward compatible, facilitates connection between old and new technologies.
  - Prevents data collisions, allowing simultaneous data sending and receiving.
- WiFi Protocol:
  - Most common LAN type, also known as WLAN.
  - Connects devices using radio waves instead of cables.
  - "WiFi" stands for Wireless Fidelity, ensuring accurate wireless data transmission.
  - Incorrectly thought to represent "Wireless Area Network"; in reality, WAN emphasizes wide geographic coverage rather than connection type.

Modern Network Configurations

Many networks now utilize a combination of Ethernet and WiFi based on specific needs.
Some WANs encompass smaller LANs and may utilize both Ethernet and WiFi at different connection points.

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Description

This quiz explores the fundamentals of computer networks, focusing on the definitions and differences between Local Area Networks (LAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN). Understand how these networks connect computers in various geographic areas and their capabilities for wired and wireless connections.