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What is the primary advantage of a Local Area Network (LAN)?
Which type of network connects multiple LANs and can cover vast geographical areas?
What is a significant disadvantage of a WAN?
How do wired networks primarily transmit data?
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What is a common limitation of a Local Area Network (LAN)?
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Which of the following accurately describes a disadvantage of a WAN?
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What factor primarily influences the choice between wired and wireless networks?
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Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a Local Area Network (LAN)?
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What is a major advantage of a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)?
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Which of the following is a limitation of a Personal Area Network (PAN)?
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What is a potential drawback of managing a computer network?
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What is a characteristic of a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) compared to a Local Area Network (LAN)?
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Which future trend in networking is associated with increased device connectivity?
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What is one of the cons associated with Personal Area Networks (PANs)?
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What is an essential task related to maintaining a computer network?
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Which of the following is an advantage of using a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)?
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Study Notes
Introduction to Computer Networks
- Computer networks allow devices to communicate and share resources.
- Network types vary in size, scope, and technology.
Wired vs. Wireless Networks
- Wired networks use physical cables like Ethernet for data transmission.
- Wireless networks rely on radio signals allowing for mobility and convenience.
Definition of a Computer Network
- A computer network is a collection of interconnected devices.
- Networks enable sharing data, applications, and hardware resources.
Local Area Network (LAN)
- A LAN connects computers within a limited geographical area like homes, schools, or small businesses.
- LANs typically use wired connections like Ethernet or wireless connections like Wi-Fi.
Pros of LAN
- LANs offer high data transfer speeds, reaching up to 1 Gbps.
- Centralized management simplifies security and maintenance.
- Cost-effective for small businesses and home users due to lower installation costs.
Cons of LAN
- Limited geographical reach makes them unsuitable for larger areas.
- Vulnerability to security breaches if not properly configured.
- Maintenance becomes challenging as the number of devices increases.
Wide Area Network (WAN)
- A WAN spans large geographical areas, connecting multiple LANs over long distances.
- WANs use leased telecommunication lines and the internet is a prominent example connecting millions of networks worldwide.
Pros of WAN
- WANs enable communication over great distances, facilitating global operations.
- They support numerous devices and users, making them scalable.
- WANs improve collaboration between remote teams and offices.
Cons of WAN
- WANs are expensive to set up and maintain due to infrastructure costs.
- They may experience slower data transfer speeds compared to LANs.
- Reliance on third-party service providers can lead to downtime and outages.
Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
- MANs span a city or large campus, connecting multiple LANs within that area.
- They are commonly used by organizations with multiple locations within a city.
- MANs offer a middle ground between LANs and WANs in terms of size and speed.
Pros of MAN
- MANs provide high-speed connectivity to various devices over a larger area.
- They can reduce costs for organizations with multiple offices in a city.
- MANs improve local communication and resource sharing.
Cons of MAN
- Setup and maintenance can be costly, similar to WANs.
- Signal degradation can occur over long distances if not properly managed.
- MANs may require extensive infrastructure, leading to higher initial investment.
Personal Area Network (PAN)
- A PAN is a small network for personal devices within a short range.
- It can connect devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
- PANs are ideal for individual users who want to sync or share data between personal devices.
Pros of PAN
- PANs are easy to set up and require minimal configuration.
- They enable seamless data transfer between personal devices without complex setups.
- Low power consumption makes them ideal for battery-operated devices.
Cons of PAN
- Limited range restricts their use to very close proximity.
- They may not support a large number of devices simultaneously.
- Security risks can arise due to the open nature of wireless connections.
Advantages of Computer Networks
- Computer networks facilitate resource sharing, improving efficiency.
- They enable communication and collaboration among users in different locations.
- Networks can enhance data security through centralized management and protocols.
Challenges of Computer Networks
- Networks are vulnerable to security breaches and cyber threats.
- Managing a network requires ongoing maintenance and updates.
- Performance issues can arise from bandwidth limitations or hardware failures.
Future Trends in Networking
- The rise of 5G technology promises faster and more reliable wireless networks.
- IoT (Internet of Things) will expand the number of connected devices significantly.
- Software-defined networking (SDN) is transforming network management and efficiency.
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Description
This quiz covers the fundamentals of computer networks, including definitions, types, and the differences between wired and wireless networks. It also explores local area networks (LAN), highlighting their advantages and disadvantages in various environments. Test your knowledge of networking concepts and improve your understanding of device communication.
