Module 1: Networking Today

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering fundamental networking concepts, network components, topologies, reliability pillars, trends, and security from Module 1: Networking Today.

Host

Every computer connected to a network that participates directly in network communication, also referred to as an end device.

Server

A computer running specialized software that provides information and resources (such as web pages, emails, or files) to end devices on a network.

Client

A computer that runs client software to request and retrieve information from a server, such as loading a web page in a browser.

Peer-to-Peer Network

A network design where a single device can act simultaneously as both a client and a server; recommended only for very small networks due to lack of centralized administration and scalability.

End Device

A device where a network message originates or where it is received, serving as the source or destination of network data.

Intermediary Device

A device that interconnects end devices, manages the flow of data, regenerates and retransmits data signals, and maintains network pathways (e.g., switches, routers, firewalls).

Network Media

The physical medium (such as metallic cables, fiber-optic glass/plastic fibers, or wireless electromagnetic waves) through which communication signals travel from source to destination.

Physical Topology Diagram

A network diagram that illustrates the physical location of intermediary devices, ports, and cable installations across rooms and racks.

Logical Topology Diagram

A network diagram that illustrates devices, ports, and the network addressing scheme rather than physical locations.

Local Area Network (LAN)

A network infrastructure that spans a small geographical area, typically administered by a single organization or individual and offering high-speed bandwidth.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

A network infrastructure that spans a wide geographical area, typically managed by one or more service providers, that interconnects distant LANs.

Internet

A worldwide collection of interconnected LANs and WANs not owned by any single individual or group, maintained with the support of organizations like IETF, ICANN, and IAB.

Intranet

A private collection of LANs and WANs internal to an organization that is meant to be accessible only by authorized members of that organization.

Extranet

A network segment providing secure, controlled access to an organization's network resources for outside entities such as suppliers, customers, and collaborators.

Converged Network

A network infrastructure that delivers multiple communication services—including data, voice, and video—over the same link using a common set of rules and standards.

Fault Tolerance

A core characteristic of a reliable network that limits the impact of a hardware or software failure by providing redundant paths and packet-switched routing.

Scalability

The capability of a network infrastructure to expand quickly and easily to support new users and applications without degrading service performance for existing users.

Quality of Service (QoS)

A router-managed traffic mechanism used to prioritize time-sensitive transmissions (such as VoIP calls and live video) over less critical traffic (such as web browsing).

Confidentiality

A primary objective of network information security ensuring that data is readable only by the intended and authorized recipients.

Integrity

A primary objective of network information security ensuring that data has not been altered, modified, or corrupted during transit.

Availability

A primary objective of network information security guaranteeing timely, dependable, and uninterrupted access to network services and data for authorized users.

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)

A networking trend that permits employees or students the flexibility to connect and use their personal computing devices to access enterprise resources anywhere.

Cloud Computing

The delivery of computing services—including data storage, file backup, and applications—over the internet using external data centers rather than local servers.

Powerline Networking

A networking method that transmits data signals over existing standard residential electrical wiring and outlets using adapters.

Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP)

An internet provider commonly found in rural areas that connects subscribers to the internet via wireless radio frequencies and outdoor antennas.

Dedicated Leased Line

A dedicated, reserved circuit within a service provider's network that connects geographically distant business offices for private voice and data transmission.

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

A Cisco certification validating knowledge in foundational networking technologies, IP connectivity, security, wireless, virtualization, automation, and network programmability.