Networking 1: Week 1 Introduction

Questions and Answers

What characterizes a computer network?

An isolated network with no external connections.

A network that only functions on wireless technology.

A group of computers connected for interaction. (correct)

A single computer operating independently.

Which classification is NOT used to categorize computer networks?

Inter-connectivity

Geographical span

Data transfer rate (correct)

Network architecture

Which of the following network architectures allows multiple systems to act as servers?

Hybrid (correct)

Linear

Peer-to-peer

Client-Server

What type of network spans across a single table or a few meters?

Personal Area Network (PAN) Signup and view all the answers

In which type of network connectivity are all devices connected through a central device?

Star network Signup and view all the answers

What defines a private network?

A network belonging to a single autonomous system. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of a bus-like network structure?

All devices share a single communication medium. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes inter-connectivity in networks?

Devices connected logically, physically, or both. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of a server in a client/server network?

To manage resources and perform network operations Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a disadvantage of a client/server network?

Higher costs due to server requirements Signup and view all the answers

Which task is NOT typically handled by the server in a client/server network?

Performing all operations independently without client input Signup and view all the answers

How do clients in a client/server network communicate with each other?

Send requests through the server for communication Signup and view all the answers

What factor contributes to better security in a client/server network?

Administration of resources by a single server Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary advantage of using fiber optic cable for data transmission?

High data transmission speed Signup and view all the answers

Which device is responsible for connecting a local area network (LAN) to the internet?

Router Signup and view all the answers

What role does a modem play in computer networking?

Connects the computer to the internet over telephone lines Signup and view all the answers

How does resource sharing benefit users in a computer network?

It reduces the need for physical connections Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the server-client model in computer networking?

The server is a central computer maintained by a system administrator Signup and view all the answers

Which feature of a computer network allows for easy data recovery?

Backup and rollback Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main functions of networking as a communication medium?

To facilitate employee communication through emails Signup and view all the answers

In what way can computer networks impact e-commerce?

They enable online transactions and business operations Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary benefit of using a Peer-To-Peer network?

It is less costly because it does not need a dedicated server. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a feature of computer networks?

Peer-To-Peer networks always have a centralized control. Signup and view all the answers

How does scalability affect a network?

It allows the addition of devices but may decrease transmission speed. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of network offers equal privileges and responsibilities to all connected computers?

Peer-To-Peer network Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a Network Interface Card (NIC)?

To enable communication between the computer and another device Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant disadvantage of a Peer-To-Peer network?

There is a lack of central data backup. Signup and view all the answers

How does a switch enhance data transmission compared to a hub?

By sending data messages directly to the intended device Signup and view all the answers

Which cable type is designed for high-speed data transmission of 1Gbps or more?

Twisted pair cable Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'network architecture' imply?

It involves both the physical and logical design of a network. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of a hybrid network?

It combines both point-to-point and back-to-back architectures Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following impacts a network's reliability?

The presence of alternative data communication sources. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a hub in a network?

To distribute requests to all interconnected computers Signup and view all the answers

In a Peer-To-Peer network, what happens if a computer hosting a resource goes down?

Other connected computers will continue to operate. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does a wireless NIC establish connections?

By utilizing radio wave technology with an antenna Signup and view all the answers

Which advantage does a network provide regarding resource sharing?

Facilitates the exchange of information such as emails and files Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about coaxial cables is true?

They resemble standard electrical installation cables Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Introduction to Computer Networks

Data communication refers to the transmission of data between devices, while networks enable interaction among various devices through connections like wires or optical fibers.

Definition of Computer Network

A computer network is a system of interconnected computers that communicate and share resources.

Classification of Computer Networks

Geographical Span:
- Networks can range from personal area networks (PAN) to wide area networks (WAN), covering distances from meters to the entire globe.
Inter-Connectivity:
- Connections can be mesh (each device connected to every other), bus (central medium with dispersed connections), linear (devices connected sequentially), star (all devices connected to a central point), or hybrid (combination of structures).
Administration:
- Networks can be private, limited to a single entity, or public, accessible by everyone.
Network Architecture:
- Architectural types include client-server (where servers provide resources to clients) and peer-to-peer (all devices have equal responsibilities).

Components of a Computer Network

NIC (Network Interface Card):
- Essential for device communication, available in wireless (using antennas and radio waves) and wired forms (using cables).
Hub:
- Central device that distributes requests to connected devices without filtering the traffic.
Switch:
- More intelligent than a hub, it sends messages specifically to the intended device rather than broadcasting.
Cables and Connectors:
- Types of cables include twisted pair (high-speed data transfer), coaxial (commonly used for TV), and fiber optic (transmits data as light for high-speed connections).
Router:
- Connects local area networks (LAN) to the internet, managing data traffic between different networks.
Modem:
- Facilitates internet access over telephone lines and operates separately from the computer's motherboard.

Uses of Computer Networks

Resource Sharing:
- Enables sharing of programs, printers, and data without requiring physical proximity.
Server-Client Model:
- Centralized server manages data storage for client machines that access resources remotely.
Communication:
- Functions as a medium for communication among users using email systems and other tools.
E-commerce:
- Supports online business operations, exemplified by platforms like Amazon.

Features of Computer Networks

Communication Speed:
- Facilitates fast communication like video conferencing and instant messaging.
File Sharing:
- Allows users to share files easily.
Backup and Recovery:
- Simplified backup processes due to centralized storage.
Software and Hardware Sharing:
- Central installation of applications reduces redundancy and installation efforts on individual machines.
Security:
- Controls access to sensitive files and applications.
Reliability:
- Provides alternative data communication routes to maintain functionality during hardware outages.
Scalability:
- Capability to add new devices without significantly degrading performance, although this can introduce errors.

Computer Network Architecture

Physical and logical designs comprising software, hardware, protocols, and media involved in data transmission.
Two main types:
- Peer-To-Peer Networks: All computers hold equal status; advantageous for small setups (up to 10 computers), less expensive and easier to maintain but lacks centralized control for data security and backup.
- Client/Server Networks: Centralized architecture with a server managing resources, improving security and backup capabilities; however, more costly due to server and NOS requirements.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Peer-To-Peer Network:
- Advantages: Cost-effective, robust against individual computer failures, simple setup.
- Disadvantages: Lack of centralized data management and security risks.
Client/Server Network:
- Advantages: Centralized data management, better security, enhanced performance.
- Disadvantages: Higher costs for servers and operating systems, need for a dedicated network administrator.

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Description

This quiz covers the introductory concepts of computer networks. Students will learn about data communication, the structure of computer networks, and their various components. Prepare to explore the architectures that define how devices connect and communicate.