Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of a computer network?
What is the primary function of a computer network?
Which of the following is NOT a typical usage of computer networks?
Which of the following is NOT a typical usage of computer networks?
What is one advantage of computer networks regarding hardware?
What is one advantage of computer networks regarding hardware?
What does bandwidth measure in networking?
What does bandwidth measure in networking?
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In a bus topology, how are computers and devices connected?
In a bus topology, how are computers and devices connected?
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What happens to the signal strength in a bus topology as it travels along the backbone?
What happens to the signal strength in a bus topology as it travels along the backbone?
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Which of the following resources can be shared over a computer network?
Which of the following resources can be shared over a computer network?
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What limitation exists in a bus topology regarding its connections?
What limitation exists in a bus topology regarding its connections?
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What major issue occurs when multiple computers attempt to use a bus topology simultaneously?
What major issue occurs when multiple computers attempt to use a bus topology simultaneously?
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Which of the following is NOT a disadvantage of a bus topology?
Which of the following is NOT a disadvantage of a bus topology?
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Which statement accurately describes how a star topology functions?
Which statement accurately describes how a star topology functions?
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What is one of the key advantages of using a star topology?
What is one of the key advantages of using a star topology?
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Which topology is highly dependent on a single point, rendering the entire system inoperative if that point fails?
Which topology is highly dependent on a single point, rendering the entire system inoperative if that point fails?
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What is a notable feature of tree topology compared to other types?
What is a notable feature of tree topology compared to other types?
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How does the fault tolerance of star topology compare to that of bus topology?
How does the fault tolerance of star topology compare to that of bus topology?
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What challenge may arise when adding new devices to a bus topology?
What challenge may arise when adding new devices to a bus topology?
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Study Notes
Computer Networks
- A computer network is a collection of interconnected computers and resources allowing communication between them.
- Networks connect devices (computers, printers, servers) via communication links.
- Resources that can be shared include PCs, laptops, servers, mainframes, printers, and file servers.
Network Usages
- Data sharing
- Software sharing
- Hardware sharing
- Personal information sharing
- E-commerce
- Person-to-person communication
- Entertainment
- Game playing
- Client-server applications
- Remote communications
Advantages of Computer Networks
- Sharing hardware (scanners, printers) reduces costs.
- Accessing data on other computers keeps everyone updated on the latest information.
- Enables sharing of internet access.
- Allows users to run programs installed elsewhere on the network.
Network Bandwidth
- Bandwidth measures how much data can be sent and received at one time.
- Bandwidth is measured in bits, megabits, or gigabits per second.
Physical Topologies
- Physical topology describes the physical layout of the network.
- Common topologies include:
- Mesh
- Star
- Bus
- Ring
Bus Topology
- Multiple devices connect to a single cable (backbone).
- Communication flows in both directions along the cable.
- Devices communicate without needing to go through a central server.
- Limited by the number of taps and the distance between taps.
- Signal strength weakens as it travels along the backbone.
- Collisions can occur if multiple devices transmit simultaneously.
Bus Topology Advantages
- Easy to install.
- Uses less cabling than Mesh or Star when small network.
Bus Topology Disadvantages
- A break in the cable stops all transmissions.
- Difficult to add new devices.
- Troubleshooting individual issues can be difficult.
- Not suitable for large networks.
Star Topology
- Each device has a dedicated connection to a central hub or switch.
- Data passes through the central device to reach other devices.
- More robust than bus topology; failure in one connection does not affect others.
- Easy to install and reconfigure.
- Easier to isolate and troubleshoot problems.
Star Topology Disadvantages
- Dependent on the central hub/switch.
- Failure of the central hub disrupts the entire network.
Tree Topology
- Variation of star topology.
- Not all devices connect directly to the central hub.
- Secondary hubs are used to expand the network.
Tree Topology Advantages/Disadvantages
- Similar advantages and disadvantages as the star topology but offering further expansion options.
Ring Topology
- Devices are connected in a closed loop.
- Signals travel in one direction around the ring.
- Each device acts as a repeater, regenerating the signal.
Ring Topology Advantages
- Easy to install and reconfigure.
- Fault isolation is simplified. (Token system)
Ring Topology Disadvantages
- Unidirectional traffic.
- A break in the ring can disrupt the entire network.
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Description
Explore the fundamentals of computer networks, including their structure, usages, advantages, and the concept of bandwidth. This quiz will help reinforce your understanding of how interconnected devices communicate and share resources effectively.
