Network Fundamentals 1

These flashcards cover different types of networks, standards in the construction of networks, different layers of communication over networks, technologies required to provide a VPN

Client-Server Relationship

A model where a client requests resources and services from a server.

Network

A group of computer systems and devices connected for the purposes of communication or resource sharing.

PAN (Personal Area Network)

A network typically no larger than the size of a room, using technologies like Bluetooth and USB (to connect personal devices).

LAN (Local Area Network)

A network that covers a local area, such as a home or office, commonly using Ethernet technology.

Ethernet technology

Protocols and implementation methods (such as twisted-pair cables and wireless) for network communication.

WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)

A LAN that uses wireless technology for connectivity.

Router

A networking device, which acts as the central hub, that forwards data packets between devices on a network.

VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network)

A simulated environment that geographically can span long distances but actually operates with a small number of devices in a LAN for scalability and adapation to changes in the environment.

SAN (Storage Area Network)

A high-speed data transfer network that provides access to consolidated file storage, in which the folder is hosted on the organization’s server.

WAN (Wide Area Network)

A larger network than a LAN, capable of being a collection of LANs; the internet is an example.

Mesh or P2P (Peer-to-Peer) Network

A network with no central hub/server/form of administration where every memeber (peer/equal client) shares and downloads data equally.

Intranet

A private network for internal employee communication and collaboration.

Extranet

A private network that extends access to authorized customers or partners.

VPN (Virtual Private Network)

An encrypted network to which users area ble to connect remotely. It is used to connect to the work place securely or to bypass locational connection restrictions.

Encyption

A required technology used in VPNs to encode/scramble data so that only a user with a decyption key is able to decypt it.

Tunnelling

A required technology used in VPNs to establish a network connection, potentially with intermediate devices, and encypting all communication.

Evaluate the use of a VPN

Assess the effectiveness and implications of using a Virtual Private Network for secure remote access and privacy in internet browsing.

OSI Model

A reference model outlining the layers (each level has its own procedures/protocols) of communication between network devices, facilitating compatibility.

2 Layers in the OSI model and their description/proctols

Layer 1 - Application: performs various services for the applications used by the end users. eg protcol: HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP)

Layer 7 - Physical: transmits 0s and 1s over media between devices. definition of media specifications. voltage levels. eg protocol RS232-C (serial port)

TCP/IP

A hierarchical model protocol that describes functions at each network layer. 

2 Layers in the TCP/IP model and their function/proctols

Layer 1 - Application: program sends data eg protcol/service: HTTP

Layer 4 -  Network Interface: packets are converted into binary and sent eg protocl/service: ethernet