Computer Networks

These flashcards cover the fundamentals of computer networks, including definitions, advantages, disadvantages, types of networks, protocols, security methods, and topologies.

What is a computer network?

A collection of computers and devices interconnected by communications channels.

What are the advantages of computer networks?

Resource sharing, communication, data sharing, and centralized management.

What are the disadvantages of computer networks?

Security risks, maintenance costs, and potential for network failure.

What is a Personal Area Network (PAN)?

A network that connects devices within a very short range, typically using Bluetooth.

What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?

A network covering a small geographic area, controlled by a single organization.

What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

A network that covers a large geographic area, often involving multiple owners.

What is the biggest example of a WAN?

The Internet.

What types of networks can exist?

Networks can be wired or wireless.

What are the advantages of wired networks over wireless networks?

Faster speeds, more stability, and less interference.

What are the disadvantages of wired networks?

Less flexibility, complex installation, and higher costs for extensive cabling.

What types of cables are used in wired networks?

Fibre and copper cables.

What is an example of a wired network cable?

Fibre optic cable.

What are common LAN topologies?

Star topology and bus topology.

What is a star topology?

A network topology where all devices are connected to a central hub.

What is a bus topology?

A network topology where all devices share a single communication line.

When would you choose a star topology?

When you need better performance and easier fault isolation.

When would you choose a bus topology?

When you want low-cost and easy installation in smaller networks.

What is a network protocol?

A set of rules governing the exchange of data between devices on a network.

What is Ethernet used for?

A family of protocols used for wired local area networks.

What is Wi-Fi?

A family of protocols used for wireless local area networks.

What is TCP?

Transmission Control Protocol, which ensures reliable data transmission.

What is UDP?

User Datagram Protocol, which allows for faster but less reliable data transmission.

What is IP?

Internet Protocol, the principal communications protocol for relaying datagrams.

What does HTTP stand for?

Hypertext Transfer Protocol.

What is HTTPS?

HTTP Secure, a secure version of HTTP using encryption.

What is FTP?

File Transfer Protocol, used for transferring files over the Internet.

What does SMTP stand for?

Simple Mail Transfer Protocol, used for sending emails.

What does IMAP stand for?

Internet Message Access Protocol, used for retrieving emails.

What is the importance of network security?

To protect data from unauthorized access and attacks.

What is authentication in network security?

The process of verifying the identity of a user or device.

What is encryption?

The process of converting information into a secure format to prevent unauthorized access.

What is a firewall?

A network security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing traffic.

What is MAC address filtering?

A security method that allows network access based on the device's physical address.

How do firewalls enhance network security?

By deciding whether to allow or block specific traffic based on security rules.

What is the role of encryption in network security?

To protect sensitive data during transmission.

What type of network communication is generally faster, wired or wireless?

Wired network communication.

What is one advantage of wireless networks?

Increased mobility and ease of installation.

What is one major drawback of wireless networks?

Increased security risks compared to wired networks.

Name a common use of Ethernet.

Connecting devices in a local area network.

What distinguishes LAN ownership compared to WAN?

LANs are usually owned and managed by a single person or organization.

What does WLAN stand for?

Wireless Local Area Network.

How has the role of firewalls evolved?

Their capabilities have expanded to better monitor and secure traffic.

Why is network security critical in modern networking?

Due to the increasing threat of cyber attacks.