Introduction to Computer Networking

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What is the main purpose of a network?

To share resources (correct)

To prevent resource sharing

To slow down computer operations

To restrict access to files

Which of the following is NOT considered a resource in a network?

A disk drive

A file

A monitor (correct)

A printer

What does networking involve?

Managing only computers

Designing, implementing, and working with networks (correct)

Preventing information exchange

Restricting communication between devices

How are devices connected in a network?

Using special hardware and software Signup and view all the answers

What is network topology?

The physical layout of a network Signup and view all the answers

What is a key advantage of using a network switch over a hub?

Conserves network bandwidth Signup and view all the answers

In a 10-Mbps network with 10 nodes communicating through a hub, what happens to the bandwidth each node can get?

Each node may only get a portion of the 10 Mbps Signup and view all the answers

How does a switch differ from a hub in terms of bandwidth allocation to connected devices?

Switch provides full bandwidth to each device Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of multiple nodes communicating on a hub compared to a switch?

Nodes on a hub share the bandwidth, affecting speed Signup and view all the answers

Which device configuration allows each node to communicate at its full bandwidth capacity in a network?

Switch Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

To connect LANs and other types of networks together Signup and view all the answers

What is a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) defined as?

A network that connects users with computer resources in a larger region than LANs Signup and view all the answers

What is the main disadvantage of networking related to costs?

Hardware and Software Management Costs Signup and view all the answers

Which type of network covers a broad area and uses routers and public communications links?

Wide Area Network (WAN) Signup and view all the answers

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

They cover small geographic areas like homes or offices Signup and view all the answers

Why are Wide Area Networks (WANs) necessary in networking?

To allow communication between users and computers in different locations Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the entire network if the central device in a star network goes down?

It goes down as well. Signup and view all the answers

Why are star topologies more expensive to install compared to bus networks?

Because they require more hubs. Signup and view all the answers

In a ring topology network, what happens if one entity is removed from the ring?

It goes down completely. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of the physical ring topology systems that led to their decline?

They were complex and expensive. Signup and view all the answers

What makes mesh topology the most complex in terms of physical design?

The need for multiple connections. Signup and view all the answers

Why do some types of Ethernet and ARCNet use a physical star topology?

Because it simplifies data transmission. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of using a router over a bridge?

Routers can determine the best path for sending data. Signup and view all the answers

Why are routers typically slower than bridges?

Routers need to analyze every packet. Signup and view all the answers

Where are routers commonly located?

At gateways where networks connect Signup and view all the answers

What is a key function of a network switch as compared to a network hub?

Switches contain more 'intelligence.' Signup and view all the answers

How do routers differ from bridges in terms of connectivity?

Routers can connect LANs to WANs. Signup and view all the answers

Why are routers more expensive compared to bridges?