Category:Network Tools

Worksheet 2: Network Topology, Hardware and Software

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Using an example, describe a computer network. Provide an illustration of the network topology.

A computer network is an assortment of computers linked together to share data.

'''Question 2 '''

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What are the benefits of using a computer network?

Ability to share data and information between one-another

'''Question 3 '''

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LAN, MAN and WAN are different types of networks. Define the terms and give an example of each.

LAN – local area network, used in close proximity area, IE. Schools

MAN:

Question 4

The two main strategies for connecting computers are:


 * ·        Client/Server – client must acess a network drive to gather information needed.


 * ·        Peer-to-Peer – direct connection to a single computer, like a telephone call, where you can send files between pc’s


 * a)     Briefly describe each strategy.


 * b)     Draw a diagram to represent each strategy.

Question 5

The common network topologies used are ‘Star’, ‘Bus’ and ‘Ring’.


 * a)     Describe the main features of each topology.


 * b)     Draw a diagram to represent each topology.


 * c)     Outline the advantages and disadvantages of each topology.

Bus Topology – advantage – easy to connect

-disadvantage – if there’s a break in main cable, network shuts down

Star – Easy to set up too


 * -         Need a long length of cable

Ring – no files escape the loop, meaning the are always secure


 * -         All cables must be in working order

Question 6

There are many types of servers that can be connected to a network. Describe the purpose of each of the following:


 * ·        File Server – a place for the users to store information that will be accessed by others


 * ·        Print Server – almost a hub for printers, that allows users on the network to print from


 * ·        Application Server – shares programs and operating systems to the network

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Question 7

Computers connected to a network are required to have a network interface card (NIC). What is the purpose of a NIC? They allw computers the ability to connect to a network setup.

Question 8

The following transmission media can be used to enable computers to communicate with each other.


 * ·        Twisted pair cable (shielded and unshielded) – four sets of wires, twisted to increase speed. Can be used for close range networking


 * ·        Coaxial cable – copper wire beneath plastic coating, faster and more reliable than previous, also has the ability to rane over a longer distance.


 * ·        Fibre optic – glass cable surrounded by a metal protective layer. Transmits laser signals over a huge distance and is extremely fast. Used for networks over an extremely long distance.

Describe each type of transmission media and provide an example of the situation in which it would best be used.

'''Question 9 '''

In the area of data transmission, what do the following terms mean?


 * ·        Bandwidth


 * ·        Baseband


 * ·        Broadband


 * ·        Simplex


 * ·        Half-duplex


 * ·        Duplex

Question 10

What is the function of the following pieces of network hardware commonly used in LAN’s?


 * ·        Hub – a hardware device that allows multiple independent & connected modules to connet together to form a network.


 * ·        Repeater – used to strengthen signal as it is passed along a cable


 * ·        Router – routes information between interconnected networks


 * ·        Bridge – if using the same communication protocol, these devices are able to connect and pass packets between two segments of a a network


 * ·        Switch – intelligent hub, it sends packages to only those intended.

Question 11

What is the purpose of a network operating system?

Designed to pass information and communicate between more than one computer

=Question 12=

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What are the most appropriate network operating systems for client/server and peer-to-peer networks?

Macintosh OSX

Microsoft Windows Server

Novell

UNIX

Question 13
What are network protocols and why are they necessary?

A set of rules that governs communications in the network. To stop any unwanted information being passed on or any information to come into the network

Question 14
The following protocols are commonly used:


 * ·        TCP/IP – transport layer – transportation of data packets between networks


 * ·        SMTP – mail transfer protocol – send messages through the internet


 * ·        HTTP – hypertext transfer protocol – sending and receiving webpages from the internet


 * ·        FTP – file transfer protocol – used to transfer and manipulate files over or on the internet


 * a)     To what does each protocol relate?


 * b)     Provide an example of the implementation of each protocol.