ET0730 Chapter 1 - Introduction to Computer Networking

Question-and-answer flashcards covering basic networking concepts from the lecture notes, including elements of networks, types of networks, devices, media, rules, protocols, and distributed computing models.

What are the four basic elements common to all networks?

Devices, Media, Messages, and Rules.

What does the 'Devices' element refer to in networking?

Devices are used for exchanging messages; they can be end devices (hosts) or intermediary devices.

What does the 'Media' element refer to in networking?

A means of interconnecting devices; can be wired (copper cables, optical fibres) or wireless (air/space).

What are 'Messages' in networking terms?

Information that travels from one device to another (web pages, email, instant messages, calls, etc.).

What are 'Rules' in networking terms?

Protocols; the rules governing communication between devices (e.g., TCP/IP).

Name the four main types of networks discussed in the notes.

Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), Internet, Intranet.

What is a Local Area Network (LAN) used for?

Used within small areas (office/building); usually administered by a single organization; high-speed (e.g., 1 Gbps); uses hubs or switches.

What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

Networks spanning large geographic distances; connects multiple LANs over long distances; may use satellites, routers, modems; often slower links; interconnections via telecom providers.

What is the Internet?

Public internetwork created by interconnecting ISP networks; enables worldwide access; ISPs connect to provide access for millions of users.

What is an Intranet?

Private network consisting of LANs and WANs belonging to an organization; accessible only to members or authorized users.

What are the two main types of networking devices used to connect hosts?

End devices (hosts) and Intermediary devices (switches, routers, firewalls, modems).

What are end devices?

Devices that originate or consume messages (hosts) such as computers, servers, IP phones, network printers, IP cameras.

What are intermediary devices?

Devices that direct/manage messages across the network (switches, routers, firewalls, modems).

What is a 'Hub' in networking?

A simple star topology device; data is broadcast to all connected devices; bandwidth is shared; slower; can cascade (daisy-chaining) hubs.

What is a 'Switch' and its advantage over hubs?

Switches send data only to the intended recipient, reducing network traffic; connects LAN segments; supports different port speeds.

What is a 'Router' used for?

Routes messages among sub-networks; finds the best path for data; connects the network to the Internet.

What does 'cascading hubs' mean?

Daisy-chaining: connecting a port on one hub to a port on another hub to increase the number of nodes.

What are the two models of distributed computing discussed?

Client-server model and Peer-to-peer model.

In the Client-Server model, who requests resources and who provides them?

Clients request resources; servers provide data, services, and applications; centralized management.

What is a key characteristic of the Client-Server model?

Dedicated server; centralized management; scalable; higher security and logging facilities.

In the Peer-to-Peer model, how do nodes function?

Each node acts as both client and server; resources provided by peers; no central server.

What are the advantages of Peer-to-Peer networks?

Simple to setup; minimal additional hardware/software; easy sharing of printers and files; no centralized administration.

What are the disadvantages of Peer-to-Peer networks?

Lack of centralized control; inconsistent availability; uneven performance; poorer security.

What is TCP/IP?

A set of protocols specifying formatting, addressing, and routing to ensure delivery of messages.

What is the difference between End Devices and Intermediary Devices?

End devices originate/consume messages (e.g., computers, servers, IP phones, printers, IP cameras); Intermediary devices direct/manage messages (switches, routers, firewalls, modems).