Computer Networks Overview
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of a computer network?

  • To generate higher processing speeds for individual devices
  • To allow devices to communicate and share resources (correct)
  • To create a backup of all data stored on devices
  • To centralize all hardware resources in one location
  • Which method is NOT used for establishing connections in a computer network?

  • Optical fibers
  • Magnetic fields (correct)
  • Physical wires or cables
  • Infrared signals
  • What does the term 'protocol' refer to in computer networking?

  • The physical connection method used in a network
  • A type of software used for network maintenance
  • A set of guidelines for networking communications (correct)
  • The speed at which data is transmitted
  • What is the function of the OSI model?

    <p>To offer a framework for standardization and protocol development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the TCP/IP model, what role does the TCP portion serve?

    <p>It breaks messages into packets and reassembles them</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an advantage of distributed processing in networks?

    <p>Reduced reliance on centralized computing</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does message encapsulation achieve in networking?

    <p>It abstracts separate functions from their underlying structures</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines a network in the context of computer networking?

    <p>A collection of devices connected by communication links</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main characteristic of a bus topology in a computer network?

    <p>All nodes are connected to a single, open-ended cable.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT an advantage of using a star topology?

    <p>The entire network remains functional if the central device fails.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant disadvantage of bus topology?

    <p>Difficult to troubleshoot.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must be done at both ends of a bus topology cable?

    <p>Install terminating resistors.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the main advantages of the ring topology?

    <p>Performance is better compared to bus topology.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does adding computers to a bus topology have on performance?

    <p>Performance degrades as more computers are added.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which topology is characterized by a central hub from which nodes radiate?

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

    What is a common factor to consider when choosing a network topology?

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

    What is a significant disadvantage of the peer-to-peer network topology?

    <p>A failure of one workstation can impact the entire network.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following advantages does the mesh topology provide?

    <p>Minimizes the number of hops between machines.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the primary disadvantages of a mesh network?

    <p>It can be expensive to build.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of network topologies, what is a downfall of peer-to-peer systems?

    <p>Scalability tends to be a challenge.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the partial-mesh topology enhance flexibility in network design?

    <p>By allowing a variety of configurations without full interconnectivity.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic distinguishes the mesh topology from star topology?

    <p>Every node is interconnected in the mesh topology.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are equipment failures a significant issue in peer-to-peer networks?

    <p>They cannot utilize alternative routing paths.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What describes the main function of dynamic routing protocols in mesh networks?

    <p>To adjust paths dynamically based on the conditions of the network.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Computer Networks Overview

    • Computer networks connect computing devices to communicate and share resources. Connections can be wired (cables) or wireless (radio waves, infrared).

    Key Concepts

    • Networking: A method where multiple computers in different locations share processing capabilities.

    • Data Communication: Sharing information (data) between devices in a network.

    • Hardware Sharing: Sharing computer resources such as printers or hard drives.

    • Software Sharing: Sharing software programs or applications across the network.

    • Centralized Administration: Managing a network from a central point simplifying maintenance and support.

    • Distributed Processing: Dividing tasks across multiple computers for improved performance, reliability and reduced processing time, often across geographical areas.

    Protocols

    • Protocol: Guidelines for implementing communication between computers in a network.

    Networking Layers

    • Networks operate in layered structures, enabling modularity and abstraction.
    • Each layer performs specific tasks.

    Message Encapsulation

    • Encapsulation is a method to structure complex network functions, preventing their components from interfering with each other.
    • Data is encapsulated or added to each layer to prepare it for transport.

    OSI Model

    • OSI (Open Systems Interconnection): A standard model defining network layers and services.
    • It provides a framework for standardization across various network protocols.
    • Multiple protocols can operate on each layer.

    TCP/IP

    • TCP (Transmission Control Protocol): Breaks messages into packets, ensures delivery, and assembles packets at the destination.
    • IP (Internet Protocol): Manages the routing of packets through a network to a final destination.

    Network Topologies

    • Topology: The pattern of interconnection of nodes in a network.

      • Common factors considered while choosing a topology are cost, reliability, and flexibility.
    • Bus Topology: All devices are connected to a single cable.

      • Advantages: Easy to implement, low cost
      • Disadvantages: Single point of failure, limited length, low efficiency.
    • Star Topology: All devices are connected to a central device (hub or switch).

      • Advantages: Easy to add new devices, centralized management, high performance, less prone to failure than bus topology
      • Disadvantages: Single point of failure of central device, costlier implementation.
    • Ring Topology: Devices are connected in a closed loop. Data travels unidirectionally in a loop using a token.

      • Advantages: No collisions, better performance than Bus topology, each device has equal access to the network.
      • Disadvantages: Single point of failure of one device, failure of one device affects the whole network.
    • Mesh Topology: All devices are interconnected, creating redundant paths.

      • Advantages: High reliability, fault tolerance, high bandwidth, efficient data transmission.
      • Disadvantages: High cost, complex implementation, difficult to manage.
    • Partial Mesh Topology: Devices are partially interconnected, combining aspects of different topologies, providing a balance of reliability.

      • Advantages: High availability compared to bus or ring
      • Disadvantages: Can be more expensive and difficult to manage compared to simpler topologies
    • Peer-to-Peer Topology: Devices act as equals in the network. Simple, less expensive solution for small networks.

      • Advantages: Inexpensive relative to other options.
      • Disadvantages: Poor scalability, difficulty in managing resources.

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    Description

    This quiz provides an overview of computer networks, highlighting key concepts such as networking, data communication, and resource sharing. It also covers protocols and networking layers that facilitate communication between devices. Test your understanding of how devices connect and collaborate in modern computing environments.

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