Questions and Answers
What type of network primarily connects devices within a limited geographical area, such as a home or office?
Which of the following best describes a Wide Area Network (WAN)?
In which type of network topology does each device connect to a central device using point-to-point links?
What is a key characteristic of the Bus Topology?
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What does a Personal Area Network (PAN) primarily focus on?
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Which connection type describes a direct link between two devices?
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Which topology requires the maximum number of connections due to its structure?
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What is one of the main advantages of logical topologies over physical topologies?
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What is a distinguishing feature of client/server networks compared to peer-to-peer networks?
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Which term describes a portion of a network that is separated by devices like switches or routers?
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Which statement accurately differentiates between local and remote resources?
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What is a primary disadvantage of peer-to-peer networks?
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Which of the following best describes a Local Area Network (LAN)?
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What differentiates a network server from a network client?
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What is the main role of the backbone in a network?
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Which aspect of a network can be defined by the way messages travel across it?
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Study Notes
Networking Terminology
- LAN (Local Area Network): A network that connects computers over a small area, such as a room, floor, or building.
- Online/Offline: Online indicates the ability to access the network, while offline means unable to access it.
- Up/Down: "Up" means the computer is functioning properly; "down" suggests it is turned off, malfunctioning, or undergoing maintenance.
- Local/Remote: Local refers to resources or components on one's own computer, while remote indicates they are located on another computer.
- Internet/Intranet: The internet is a global public network, whereas an intranet is a private internal network within an organization.
Understanding the Network
- Node: Any device connected to the network.
- Segment: A division of the network separated by devices like switches, bridges, or routers.
- Backbone: The primary cabling that forms the main structure of a network.
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Topology: The physical or logical arrangement of network nodes.
- Physical Topology: Describes the actual layout of cables and connections.
- Logical Topology: Defines the path of data transmission across the network.
Clients and Servers
- Network Clients: Computers requesting resources or services from the network.
- Network Servers: More powerful computers that manage resources and provide services to clients, operating on a Network Operating System for enhanced security and management.
Peer-to-Peer Networks
- Characterized by equal status among all computers with no central administration, also known as a workgroup.
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Advantages:
- Low cost
- Simple configuration
- Full accessibility for users
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Disadvantages:
- Challenges in enforcing security
- Difficult to manage load distribution
Client/Server Networks
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Advantages:
- Centralized resource sharing and management
- Improved backup and fault tolerance
- Enhanced security through administrative control
- Better support for multiple users
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Disadvantages:
- Higher costs due to server infrastructure
- Requires expertise for network configuration
Types of Networks
- Local Area Network (LAN): Small networks limited by distance and number of computers, serving specific departments or locations like homes or offices.
- Wide Area Network (WAN): Connects multiple LANs across large distances (towns, states, countries).
- Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): Links users within a larger area than a LAN but smaller than a WAN.
- Personal Area Network (PAN): Interconnects devices within a personal workspace.
- Storage Area Network (SAN): High-speed network providing dedicated storage access.
- Wireless LAN (WLAN): A local network using wireless communication for connection within limited areas.
Connection Types
- Point-to-Point: Direct connection between two devices (e.g., computer to printer).
- Multipoint: Connection involving three or more devices, also referred to as multidrop.
Network Topologies
- BUS: Uses a long central cable (backbone) with connections for each node (drop cables).
- RING: Circular configuration where each node connects to two adjacent nodes, forming a closed loop.
- STAR: Centralized model with a hub or switch where all devices connect through individual links.
- MESH: Highly interconnected design where each device connects to multiple others, though impractical due to resource requirements.
Topology Characteristics
- Considerations include installation ease, reconfiguration flexibility, troubleshooting simplicity, and the number of devices impacted by media failures.
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Description
Test your knowledge of essential networking terminology with this quiz. From understanding LANs to distinguishing between local and remote connections, this quiz covers key concepts in networking. Challenge yourself and see how well you grasp the fundamentals of computer networks.
