Networking Devices Functions Quiz

Router Functions

• Routers route data packets between networks based on IP addresses.
• They inspect IP addresses to determine if the data packet is for an internal or external network.
• If the packet is for an internal network, the router sends the packet to the local switch or hub.
• Otherwise, the packet is forwarded to another router.
• Routers maintain a routing table with information of immediate and other networks in the vicinity.
• When a packet arrives, the router checks the routing table to determine the best path to the destination.
• Routers do not need MAC addresses to forward packets; switches handle that.

Bridge Functions

• Bridges connect Local Area Networks (LANs) together.
• They examine MAC addresses to move packets between same protocol networks.
• Bridges use a MAC address table to forward packets to the correct device.
• Bridges are used in networks where the same protocol is used by different devices.
• Bridges only have two ports.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

• Both use electromagnetic radiation to send data.
• Bluetooth operates using 79 frequencies. Devices pair up to use different frequencies (Bluetooth channels).
• Wi-Fi uses 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies.
• Wi-Fi offers faster data speeds and a wider range but is more easily affected by interference than Bluetooth.
• Bluetooth is more suited when data speed isn't a priority.

Wi-Fi vs Bluetooth

• Advantages of Wi-Fi: faster data transfer, larger range, better security.
• Disadvantages of Wi-Fi: more susceptible to interference, slower speeds in congested areas
• Advantages of Bluetooth: easier setup, less susceptible to interference, lower power consumption
• Disadvantages of Bluetooth: slower data transfer speeds, shorter range

Cloud Computing (Storage)

• Data stored on remote servers. Redundancy (data copies) on multiple servers to ensure access if a server fails.
• Hosting companies own and control the physical servers.
• Types: Public cloud, private cloud, hybrid cloud. Public cloud offers services to anyone. Private cloud is only for selected users. Hybrid cloud combines both.

Network Types

• LAN (Local Area Network): connects devices within a building.
• WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network): uses wireless signals for connection within a given area.
• MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): spans a larger geographic area such as a city.
• WAN (Wide Area Network): largest network covering a wide area (e.g. the internet).

Cloud Computing (Advantages)

• Accessible data from anywhere with internet access.
• Backup and recovery of data is automatic.
• No need for hardware or software management by users.

Cloud Computing (Disadvantages)

• Security vulnerabilities since data is stored remotely.
• Problems with slow internet connections to access data.

Network Security Threats

• Viruses, malware, identity theft, spam and pharming attacks can compromise network security.

Wi-Fi vs Wired Networks

• Advantages of Wireless Networks
• Easy mobility of devices in a wider area
• Less wiring congestion
• Disadvantages of Wireless Network
• Security concern
• Slower internet speed
• Hardware failure

Router vs Bridge

• Routers use IP addresses to determine forwarding of data
• Bridges use MAC addresses in this process
• Routers work between Local Area Networks (LAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN) and Bridges connect LAN to LAN

Video Conferencing

• Real-time video and audio communication over the internet.
• Requires devices such as microphones and speakers.
• Often used for business meetings, education, or social interaction.

Audio Conferencing

• Audio-only communication over the internet or a phone network.
• Allows parties to participate remotely while sharing information or having conversations.

Web Conferencing

• Computer application used for meetings and discussions over the internet.
• Usually includes screen-sharing and file-sharing capabilities.

Computer Modelling

• Computer models depict real-world phenomena such as floods, bridges to avoid costly mistakes before beginning construction.
• Uses models to simulate various scenarios and test their impacts.

Flood Management

• Computer models are used to predict potential flood levels, paths, and depths.
• Input data can include river cross-sections, bridge dimensions for modelling water flow pathways.
• Models create plans to guard against anticipated future floods.

Traffic Management

• Models are used to study how changes in traffic flow on roads or bridges could effect in multiple scenarios.
• They examine how many vehicles can pass through junctions at different times of the day to provide better congestion predictions.
• Modeling is used to develop better traffic flow management plans.

Weather Forecasting

• Weather stations collect and record environmental data such as rainfall, temperature, humidity, wind speed & direction, and barometric pressure.
• Information is used to make predictions about future weather patterns.

Computer-Aided Learning

• Computer-based systems are used to enhance classroom instruction, as a supplement.

Booking Systems

• Online booking systems automate aspects of booking events, tickets, or airline travel.
• They help prevent double-booking and improve speed and accuracy in booking processing steps.

Banking Systems

• Modern banking systems use ATMs and EFT (electronic funds transfer) with credit/debit cards.
• Cheques are a less common payment method, slower and more inconvenient

Advantages of Using Electronic vs Paper-Based Publication

• Cost efficiency
• Accessibility and availability
• Environmentally friendly
• Easy to update and modify

Disadvantages of Using Electronic vs Paper-Based Publication

• Security risks
• Technical malfunctions
• Environmental factors (energy consumption)

Advantages of using robots vs labour

• Faster processing
• High accuracy
• Consistency
• Can work in dangerous or difficult situations.
• Can work non-stop

Disadvantages of using robots

• High initial set-up costs
• Can be difficult to reprogram for different tasks
• Can cause job displacement.
• Can be costly to maintain.

Test your knowledge of the functions and roles of routers and bridges in a network. This quiz covers how routers manage data packets and routing tables, as well as how bridges connect LANs and process MAC addresses. Challenge yourself and see how well you understand these essential networking concepts!