Networking Concepts and Terminology

Front

network

Back

A group of computers and other devices (such as printers) that are connected by and can exchange data via wired or wireless transmission media.

Front

topology

Back

How the parts of a whole work together.

Front

physical topology

Back

The physical layout of the media, nodes, and devices on a network. It does not specify device types, connectivity methods, or addressing schemes.

Front

logical topology

Back

The way in which data is transmitted between nodes, including how access is controlled and resources are shared.

Front

NOS (network operating system)

Back

Software that runs on a server and manages data, users, groups, security, applications, and networking functions.

Front

server operating system

Back

An OS designed to run on a server and provide network services to clients.

Front

P2P (peer-to-peer) network model

Back

A network where each computer can communicate directly with others, with no hierarchy.

Front

scalable

Back

Describes a network’s ability to grow or expand easily.

Front

server

Back

A computer or application that provides a service to other devices.

Front

client-server network model

Back

A network where resources are managed centrally by a NOS using a directory database.