Network Topologies Quiz

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.

Each device is connected to two adjacent devices, forming a ring, and data is transmitted in a circular motion. Signup and view all the answers

Describe data transmission in a mesh topology.

Each device has point-to-point links to every other device, allowing simplex (one direction) or duplex (two directions) data flow. Signup and view all the answers

What is a hybrid or tree topology?

A hybrid topology is a combination of two or more topologies interconnected, allowing for more flexible network designs. Signup and view all the answers

List seven typical hardware components used in constructing a LAN.

Router, Switch, Modem, Network Interface Card (NIC), Cabling (Ethernet Cables), Access Point (AP), Servers. Signup and view all the answers

Identify and explain the difference between two wiring standards for Ethernet cables.

TIA/EIA-568A and TIA/EIA-568B; they define the color-coding sequence of the wires inside an Ethernet cable. Signup and view all the answers

What role does a router play in a LAN?

A router connects the LAN to the internet and routes data between devices in the network and external networks. Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a switch in a LAN?

A switch connects multiple devices within a LAN, allowing them to communicate with each other. Signup and view all the answers

Why is a modem needed in a LAN?

A modem connects the LAN to the internet service provider by converting digital signals to analogue for transmission. Signup and view all the answers

What does a Network Interface Card (NIC) do?

A NIC allows computers or devices to connect to the LAN, typically via an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of firewall software in a LAN?

Firewall software controls incoming and outgoing traffic based on security rules, preventing unauthorized access. Signup and view all the answers

List three wireless standards.

Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11), Bluetooth, and Zigbee. Signup and view all the answers

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

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.
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.
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.
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.
Hybrid/Tree Topology:
- Combines multiple topologies, allowing for flexible network design and scalability.

LAN Communication Components

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.
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

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

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.