Network Devices and Client-Server Basics

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of a router in a network?

To connect multiple networks and direct data packets between them (correct)

To store and retrieve data for multiple clients

To control access to specific network resources

To filter and monitor traffic within a single network segment

Which type of network device is responsible for linking devices within a local area network (LAN)?

Server

Switch (correct)

Firewall

Router

How does a firewall primarily function in a network?

By enhancing network speed through data caching

By providing physical connectivity between network devices

By preventing unauthorized access and monitoring traffic (correct)

By allocating bandwidth to various servers

In the context of a network, what does the term 'client' refer to?

A device that receives data from a server Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a wide area network (WAN) from a local area network (LAN)?

A WAN covers large geographical areas, while a LAN operates within a limited area. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best defines a computer network?

A telecommunications network enabling nodes to share resources and connect data. Signup and view all the answers

What role does a server play in a computer network?

To manage and store data accessible by clients Signup and view all the answers

In a digital networking context, which of these devices primarily functions to connect a business's network to external networks?

Router Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of a router in a network?

To facilitate communications between LANs and external networks Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes a wireless router?

It combines the roles of multiple devices including router, switch, and access point Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a network firewall?

To inspect traffic and allow or deny it based on rules Signup and view all the answers

How do switches primarily function within a LAN?

By facilitating direct communications between connected devices Signup and view all the answers

What type of firewall is primarily used for larger networks?

Network firewall Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a characteristic of a wireless router?

Provides high-level security features only Signup and view all the answers

What best describes the role of a client in a computer network?

To access services provided by servers Signup and view all the answers

In the context of networking, what does the term 'node' refer to?

Any device that connects to a network Signup and view all the answers

Why are routers not typically used to connect many end hosts within a LAN?

Switches are more efficient for connecting devices within a LAN Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk associated with allowing devices to communicate over the internet?

Exposure to potential security threats Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between a LAN and a WAN?

A LAN covers a small area, while a WAN spans large geographical regions Signup and view all the answers

What does a cloud icon typically represent in a network diagram?

An unknown or unimportant network section, such as the internet Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following devices is described as a host-based firewall?

Software like Microsoft Defender Firewall Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a server in a client-server relationship?

It offers services to clients that can include data retrieval and streaming. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a resource in the context of networking?

Anything that can be accessed or utilized over the network. Signup and view all the answers

What role does a switch play in a network?

It facilitates communication between devices within a LAN. Signup and view all the answers

How can devices interchange between client and server roles?

Any node can function as both a client and a server depending on the service accessed. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly describes the connection between nodes and network infrastructure?

Network infrastructure devices facilitate communication among end hosts. Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates a client from a server in terms of functionality?

Clients access services while servers provide those services. Signup and view all the answers

Why might a personal computer act as both a client and server in a home network?

It is configured to serve files while simultaneously accessing them. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines the term 'node' in networking?

Any device that connects to a network regardless of its role. Signup and view all the answers

What is one major reason switches are typically equipped with a high number of ports?

To connect numerous end devices within a single local area network. Signup and view all the answers

In a networking context, which statement is true regarding the term 'endpoint'?

Endpoints include all devices that communicate over a network. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following pairs correctly exemplifies a client-server interaction?

A smartphone playing a video from an online service. Signup and view all the answers

What is incorrect regarding the role of a switch in a network?

Switches can also serve as clients in networks. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the devices making up network infrastructure is true?

They facilitate the connection and communication between endpoints. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Network Devices

A network connects people or things, encompassing systems like railways, bodily systems, and groups of people.
A computer network connects computers, allowing resource sharing.
A node is any device on a network (e.g., PC, iPhone, router).
A resource is anything accessible or usable on a network (e.g., web pages, printers, online games).

Clients and Servers

Clients access services provided by servers.
Servers provide services to clients.
Clients and servers can be any device.
A device acting as a server provides a service (e.g., hosting a webpage); a device acting as a client accesses a service (e.g., retrieving a webpage).
Any device can be both a client and a server depending on the context.

Switches

Switches connect devices within a Local Area Network (LAN).
Switches facilitate communication between devices within a LAN, but do not communicate directly with them.
Switches have multiple ports (typically 24-48) for connecting devices.
Switches don't connect to external networks.

Routers

Routers connect LANs to external networks, such as the Internet.
Routers enable communication between LANs and external networks.
Routers aren't used for connecting devices within a LAN.
A cloud icon represents parts of a network unknown or unimportant in a diagram (e.g. the internet).

Wireless Routers

Wireless routers are multifunctional devices combining router, switch, wireless access point, and firewall functions.
Suitable for small office/home office (SOHO) networks.

Firewalls

Firewalls protect networks by controlling network traffic (allowing or denying).
A network firewall is a separate hardware appliance.
A host-based firewall is software on a device (e.g., Windows Defender).
Firewalls inspect traffic entering and exiting the network, making decisions based on configured rules.
Firewalls are not a primary focus in the CCNA course.

LAN and WAN

LAN: interconnected devices in a limited area (e.g., office).
WAN: network spanning a large geographical area (e.g., between cities).

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Description

This quiz explores essential concepts of network devices including nodes, switches, clients, and servers. Understand how these components interact and facilitate communication within computer networks. Test your knowledge of these fundamental networking principles.