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Questions and Answers
What is a computer network?
A computer network consists of 2 or more devices linked together to share data.
All computers connected to a network are known as 'stand-alone' computers.
False
What is an IP address?
An IP address is a unique address assigned to each device on the internet by an internet service provider (ISP).
What does IPv4 stand for?
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How many bits does a MAC address have?
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What is the primary function of a Network Interface Card (NIC)?
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What is used to transmit data around networks?
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What distinguishes switches from hubs?
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A router is used to route data packets from one network to another based on its ______.
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Bridges can communicate with external networks.
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Match the following devices with their primary function:
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Study Notes
Computer Networks
- Comprise two or more devices interconnected to share data.
- Can vary significantly in size; devices not connected are termed "stand-alone" computers.
Internet Protocol (IP) Address
- Unique identifier assigned to each device on the internet by an internet service provider (ISP).
- Essential for defining communication rules between data senders and receivers.
- Identifies device location within a network; changes with login location.
- Two versions:
- IPv4: 32 bits, structured in 4 groups of 8 bits.
- IPv6: 128 bits, formatted in 8 groups of hexadecimal digits.
Media Access Control (MAC) Address
- A permanent physical address that does not change.
- Determined by the Network Interface Card (NIC); changes if NIC is replaced.
- Comprises 48 bits, represented in six groupings.
- Uniquely identifies a device on the network and is included in data packet transmissions.
- Helps identify the source and destination of data.
Network Interface Card (NIC)
- Connects devices to a network.
- Converts binary data into electrical signals (Data Acquisition Controller - DAC).
- Each NIC has a unique hard-coded MAC address assigned during manufacturing.
- Wireless Network Interface Card (WNIC) utilizes wireless connectivity.
Data Packets
- Data is transferred across networks in segments known as data packets.
- Large data sets are divided into multiple packets for transmission.
- Each packet is sent independently and contains a header with:
- Sender's and receiver's IP addresses.
- Sequence/identity number of the packets.
- Size of the packet.
- Indication of how packets compose the entire message.
Hubs
- Hardware devices connecting multiple devices into a Local Area Network (LAN).
- Distribute received data packets to all connected devices, creating potential security risks.
- Generally slower in bandwidth and prone to unnecessary network traffic.
Switches
- More advanced than hubs, directing data solely to specific devices.
- Store MAC addresses for all connected devices and use a lookup table for data routing.
- Enhance security and increase bandwidth efficiency by minimizing unnecessary traffic.
Similarities and Differences: Hubs vs. Switches
- Both connect devices within a LAN and utilize data packets for transmission.
- Hubs send data to all devices connected; switches send data to specific devices based on MAC addressing.
- Hubs have lower security compared to switches.
Bridges
- Devices that interconnect multiple LANs using the same communication protocols.
- Allow different segments of a LAN to operate together as a single entity.
- Unlike routers, bridges do not connect to external networks like the internet.
Routers
- Facilitate the transfer of data packets between different networks based on their IP addresses.
- Each router has its own unique IP address, often joining a LAN to the internet.
- Support both wired and wireless connections, with wired options typically offering greater stability.
Router Data Packet Transmission
- When a router receives a data packet, it checks the IP address against its routing table stored in RAM.
- Determines if the packet is meant for its network or if it needs to be forwarded to another router.
- Continues forwarding packets until they reach their designated destination, often passing through multiple routers.
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Description
Explore the fundamentals of computer networks in this Year 10 quiz. Learn about the different devices connected in a network, the significance of IP addresses, and how data sharing works. Ideal for students wanting to deepen their understanding of networking concepts.
