Data and Computer Communications Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is a primary disadvantage of using mainframes and dumb terminals?

  • They offer high levels of user independence.
  • They allow for extensive resource sharing.
  • They can become a single point of failure. (correct)
  • They are cost-effective for large businesses.

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'Sneaker Net'?

  • A network topology involving star configuration.
  • A method of connecting computers wirelessly.
  • An automated way of transferring data across the Internet.
  • The use of physical media for data transfer between computers. (correct)

What distinct advantage does a Distributed Processing System (DPS) offer in a network?

  • Individual PCs operate independently from the main server. (correct)
  • Centralized data storage for all users.
  • Simplicity in managing users and resources.
  • Increased financial costs and maintenance complexities.

What is a crucial function of networks as described in the information provided?

<p>To manage user security with authentication methods. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which element is NOT typically associated with networks?

<p>Single user mainframe (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant problem arises from using the 'Sneaker Net' for data transfer?

<p>High probability of data transfer errors. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a simple computer network, what serves as the central organizing device for communication?

<p>A master device. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the best description of a network based on the content provided?

<p>A collection of connected devices for sharing services. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the characteristic of a local area network (LAN)?

<p>It operates at speeds of 10, 100, or 1000 Mbps. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primary function does a network interfacing card (NIC) serve in a computer network?

<p>It allows the computer to connect to the network physically. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of network distinguished by its geographical coverage is designed for small areas like offices or laboratories?

<p>Local Area Network (LAN) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In terms of network components, which of the following is NOT considered a network device?

<p>Refrigerator (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a notable feature unique to wireless local area networks (WLANs) compared to wired LANs?

<p>Absence of any physical transmission media. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspects are NOT typically considered when classifying networks based on their types?

<p>Users' skill level in networking (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary advantage of file sharing in network environments?

<p>Files can be accessed rapidly from multiple computers. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding the communication capabilities of a network?

<p>Communication can occur through various methods like e-mail and messaging. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) from a Local Area Network (LAN)?

<p>A MAN connects several LANs across a wider area, while a LAN connects devices in a limited area. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a client-server network, which role cannot a computer perform?

<p>Performing both client and server tasks simultaneously. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of server is responsible for managing print jobs and providing fax services on a network?

<p>Printer server (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of a Wide Area Network (WAN) compared to a Local Area Network (LAN)?

<p>WANs cover longer distances typically across cities or countries. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a file server in a network?

<p>To store, retrieve, and manage data files. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which network topology is characterized by every computer either being a client or a server?

<p>Client-server network (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a fundamental limitation of Local Area Networks (LANs)?

<p>They cover a smaller geographic area than MANs. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true about the Internet as a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

<p>The Internet connects computers over long distances. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Sneaker Net

A method of transferring data between computers by physically carrying media like floppy disks, CDs, or DVDs.

Computer Network

A system connecting computers to share resources and communicate.

LAN (Local Area Network)

A network connecting computers in a small area, like an office or building.

Disadvantages of Sneaker Net

High probability of data transfer errors, significant effort and time needed for file transfer, and issues with resource sharing (like a printer).

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Distributed Processing System (DPS)

A computer network where each computer acts independently of a central server.

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Network Components

The individual parts such as computers, cables, and network devices that make a network work.

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Computer Network

A collection of electronic devices connected to share information and resources.

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Network Devices

Hardware that facilitates communication and connections on a network (e.g., hubs, switches, routers).

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Network Components

Individual PCs, client, nodes, workstations, agents, hosts are components of a network.

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Transmission Media

The physical pathways that carry data between network devices (e.g., cables, wireless signals).

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Network Functions

File storage and retrieval, resource sharing (like printers), user management, and security.

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File Sharing

A means of accessing and utilizing files on other computers on a network.

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Mainframes and Dumb Terminals

Early computer systems with a central mainframe and connected terminals (dumb terminals) that couldn't perform much processing.

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Resource Sharing

The ability for users on a network to access and utilize common resources like printers and scanners.

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Network Topology

The physical or logical arrangement of computers and devices in a network.

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Network Goal

Connect computers to share information and services, minimizing the need to physically transfer data, like sneaker net methods.

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LAN

A network connecting computers within a limited area, like a building or office.

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MAN

A computer network covering a city, connecting several LANs.

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WAN

A network connecting computers over long distances, like countries or globally.

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Client-Server Network

A network architecture where clients request services from a central server.

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File Server

A server that stores, manages, and provides access to files within a network.

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Printer Server

A server that manages printing tasks across a network.

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Application Server

A server that provides access to software applications over a network.

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Database Server

A server that manages and provides access to a centralized database.

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Study Notes

Evaluation

History of Computer Networks

  • Mainframes & Dumb terminals:
    • Very high financial cost
    • Beneficiaries cannot fully utilize these systems
    • Potential single point of failure
  • Mini-computers/single user:
    • Distributed computing or distributed processing

Sneaker Net

  • Disadvantages:
    • Requires many floppy disks or CDs/DVDs
    • Time-consuming and prone to errors during data transfer
    • Inefficient for tasks like shared printing (printer needs to be moved to each PC to print)

Networks

  • Solution to sneaker net disadvantages: Connecting PCs together through a master device or communication line to transfer data between them.
  • Network definition: A network is a set of electronic devices connected for sharing information and services.

Types of Networks

  • Based on Size:
    • LAN (Local Area Network): Covers small areas like a room, lab, office, or campus (up to a few meters)
      • High reliability
      • Low error rate
      • Narrowly owned (typically a single owner)
      • Sharing resources (e.g., printers, scanners) and communication (e.g., email) between users in a small area
      • Runs at 10/100/1000 Mbps, with low delays
      • A variation is WLAN (wireless LAN)
    • MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): Connects several LANs spread over a city. Covers distances up to 30-50 km (e.g., a university campus).
      • Connects several offices in different buildings in a closed area.
    • WAN (Wide Area Network): Covers large distances like cities, countries, continents, or globally (e.g., the internet)
      • Slower and less reliable than LANs
      • Allows users real-time communication.

Types of LANs

  • Client-Server Network: Each PC has either client or server role (but not both)
    • A server holds all resources, and responds to client requests
    • Many users can share data and resources hosted by a centralized server
    • Offers security and administration to the network
  • Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Network: All PCs are equal in importance (peers)
    • No central control system for managing resources
    • Resources may be independently secured on each PC
    • Best for small networks (with less than 10 computers)
    • Easy set-up for file sharing and printer sharing

Types of Servers

  • File server: Stores, retrieves, and moves data; enables users to read, write, exchange, and manage files.
  • Print server: Controls and manages printing on the network.
  • Application server: Shares expensive software & computing power.
  • Database server: Centralized database access.
  • Message server: Coordinates user interaction, documents and applications; data in various forms such as audio, video, binary, text, or graphics.

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