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Questions and Answers
What is the difference between logical and physical network topologies?
Physical topology shows actual connectivity and layout of the network, while logical topology shows the virtual view of the layout and how data flows between devices.
Describe how a bus topology transmits data.
Devices are connected through shared cabling, with taps and drop lines, and all devices use the same cable for data frame transmission.
How does a star topology transmit data?
Devices connect to a central device with a dedicated link, and data frames are routed through the central device before reaching the destination.
Explain the data transmission method in a ring topology.
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Describe data transmission in a mesh topology.
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What is a hybrid or tree topology?
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List seven typical hardware components used in constructing a LAN.
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Identify and explain the difference between two wiring standards for Ethernet cables.
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What role does a router play in a LAN?
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What is the function of a switch in a LAN?
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Why is a modem needed in a LAN?
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What does a Network Interface Card (NIC) do?
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What is the purpose of firewall software in a LAN?
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List three wireless standards.
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Study Notes
Network Topologies
- Physical Topology: Represents actual physical connections in a network including layout, cables, routers, and LAN setups.
- Logical Topology: Illustrates how data flows between devices virtually, emphasizing the data paths rather than physical connections.
Physical Network Topologies
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Bus Topology:
- All devices share a single cable (bus) with taps and drop lines.
- Data is transmitted as a frame; all devices receive the frame but only the one with the matching destination MAC address processes it.
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Star Topology:
- Devices connect to a central device (switch/hub) using dedicated point-to-point links.
- Data frames are routed through the central device before being broadcasted or sent directly to the target device.
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Ring Topology:
- Each device connects to two adjacent devices, forming a closed loop (ring).
- Data travels in one direction through the ring from device to device.
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Mesh Topology:
- Each device has direct point-to-point links to every other device, enabling communication redundancies.
- Simplex Links: Data flows in one direction only.
- Duplex Links: Data flows in both directions, enhancing communication efficiency.
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Hybrid/Tree Topology:
- Combines multiple topologies, allowing for flexible network design and scalability.
LAN Communication Components
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Hardware Components:
- Router: Connects the LAN to the internet and manages data routing between internal devices and external networks.
- Switch: Central device facilitating communication among multiple devices within the LAN.
- Modem: Converts digital signals for internet access via phone lines or cable, linking the LAN to the internet service provider (ISP).
- Network Interface Card (NIC): Enables devices to connect to the LAN using wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi) connections.
- Cabling (Ethernet Cables): Physical medium for wired communication between devices and network components.
- Access Point (AP): Provides wireless connectivity, allowing devices to connect to the LAN via Wi-Fi.
- Servers: Dedicated computers that offer services like file storage, web hosting, or application support to other networked devices.
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Software Components:
- Operating System (OS): Governs device management and network connections; examples include Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- Network Management Software: Tools for configuring and monitoring network performance, such as IP address management and traffic control.
- Firewall Software: Mitigates security risks by regulating incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
- Antivirus/Anti-Malware Software: Protects LAN-connected devices from malicious threats, ensuring overall network safety.
Wiring Standards
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TIA/EIA-568A and TIA/EIA-568B: Two prominent wiring standards for Ethernet cables.
- Define color-coding sequence of wires within an Ethernet cable.
- Main distinction lies in the color-coding; using one standard across the network simplifies installation and maintenance.
Wireless Standards
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Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11):
- Facilitates wireless network connections for devices like laptops and smartphones, enabling internet access without physical cabling.
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Description
Test your knowledge on various network topologies, including physical and logical layouts. Explore bus, star, ring, and mesh topologies and their characteristics. See how well you understand the connections in a network.