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Questions and Answers
What are the basic components of a network?
Hardware, software, and connecting links
What is a data communications system?
Computer systems that transmit data over communication lines
Which of the following is NOT a network classification by geographic coverage?
What type of network is a Local Area Network (LAN)?
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Networks only share software resources.
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What are the types of network topologies?
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What does a server do in a Client/Server network?
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A network that is popular with coffee shops is called a ______.
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Match the following network classifications with their descriptions:
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Which of the following is a communications standard for orderly data transfer?
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Study Notes
Data Communications
- Data communications systems transmit data over communication lines like telephone lines or cables.
- Three types of data communication systems:
- Centralized Data Processing - all data processing is done by a single powerful computer.
- Distributed Data Processing - processing is split among multiple computers.
- Network - multiple computers connected in a specific way to share resources.
Communications Network
- A combination of hardware, software, and connecting links that transport data.
- Data is encoded, sent to its destination, and decoded.
- Noise can interfere with the transmission of data.
Shared Resources
- Networks share hardware, software, and data.
- This reduces costs by:
- Sharing peripheral devices
- Using site licenses for software
- Networks provide access to the internet.
- Data can be shared using:
- Groupware
- Instant messaging
- Online conferencing
Network Vulnerabilities
- Networks are vulnerable to unauthorized access and malicious code such as viruses, Trojan horses, and worms.
- However, most benefits of networks outweigh the risks, and computers can be protected with appropriate security measures.
Network Classifications
-
Geographic Coverage:
- PAN: Personal Area Network (PDAs)
- WAN: Wide Area Network (Internet)
- NAN: Neighborhood Area Network (popular with coffee shops)
- MAN: Metropolitan Area Network (50 miles)
- LAN: Local Area Network (single building)
-
Organizational Structure:
- Client/Server: One or more computers function as servers and others as clients. The server is the central repository for data.
- Peer-to-Peer (P2P): All computers are equal and data is transferred directly between workstations without going through a server.
Client/Server Terminology
- Server: A computer on a network that distributes resources to users.
- Host: Similar to a server, but mainly used for Internet services.
- Workstation: A PC connected to a network.
- Client: Software that allows access to server services.
Network Classifications (cont.)
-
Physical:
- Layout and relationship between devices.
- Common topologies: star, bus, ring, mesh, tree.
-
Network:
- Technologies for cables and signals.
- Examples: Twisted-pair, coaxial, or fiber-optic cable; RF; microwaves; Infrared; power or phone line.
-
Bandwidth:
- Capacity of the network.
- Examples: Broadband, narrowband.
-
Communications Protocols:
- Standards for orderly and safe data transfer.
- Examples: TCP/IP, SPX/IPX, NetBEUI/NetBIOS, AppleTalk.
Network Topology
- The physical arrangement of devices, cables, and wires.
- Each connection point is a node.
- Each node has a:
- Physical address: Built into circuitry.
- Logical address: Assigned by network software.
Interconnecting Networks
- Two similar networks can be interconnected.
- This increases the size and scope of the network.
- Example: Connecting LANs to create a WAN.
- This requires special equipment and protocols to ensure seamless communication.
- Network bridges, routers, and gateways are used to connect networks with different protocols and data formats.
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Description
Test your knowledge on data communications systems and networks. This quiz covers the types of data processing, shared resources, and the essential components of communication networks. Explore how data is transmitted, processed, and the vulnerabilities that can arise in these systems.
