1.1.2 - Network Types

Flashcards about network types based on lecture notes.

What is a Home/Residential Network?

A network with an Internet router, a few computers, mobile devices, gaming consoles, and printers.

Define a Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) network.

A business-oriented network possibly using a centralized server in addition to client devices and printers but often still using a single Internet router/switch/access point to provide connectivity.

What characterizes a Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) Network?

A network supporting dozens of users, utilizing structured cabling and multiple switches and routers for connectivity.

Describe an Enterprise LAN.

A larger network with hundreds or thousands of servers and clients, requiring multiple enterprise-class switch and router appliances to maintain performance levels.

What is a Datacenter network?

A network that hosts only servers and storage, not end-user client devices.

What are the primary characteristics used to define a network type?

Size (number of nodes) and scope (area over which nodes sharing the same network address are distributed).

What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?

A network confined to a single geographical location where all nodes and segments are directly connected with cables or short-range wireless technologies.

What are some examples of LANs?

Home networks, small office networks, and networks within a single building.

What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

A network of networks, connected by long-distance links.

How is a typical enterprise WAN configured?

It connects a main office site with multiple branch office sites, possibly in different countries.

What is a common use of WAN links?

Connecting datacenters to one another.

Who typically operates and manages WAN links?

A service provider who leases the network devices and links.