Networking Basics

A computer network is a group of ​ (a)   or more ​ (b)   devices which can share ​ (c)   and resources.

• two
• interconnected
• files
• one
• ten
• stand-alone
• power
• computer

A computer that is not connected to a computer network is known as a...

Which of these are benefits of creating computer networks?

• Easy to share resources such as printers.

• Data can be stored centrally allowing it be accessed from any computer on a network.

• It is easy to communicate with others around the globe.

• Files can be accessed remotely allow people to work from home more easily.

Match the description with the drawback.

• Setup Costs

• Running networks can sometimes require specialist staff, such as a network administrator.

• Over-Reliance

• If a network fails then we will be unable to access files and services that we use it for.

• Spread of malware.

• Networking equipment is expensive. Creating networks can therefore be very costly.

• Running Costs

• Connecting computers to networks opens them up to attacks like hacking.

• Increased security risk.

• If a networked computer is infected with malware, it can spread more easily to other computers on the network.

A ​ (a)   Area Network (LAN) covers a ​ (b)   geographic area, such as a ​ (c)   or school site. The hardware is all owned and managed by the ​ (d)   or individual using it.

• Local
• small
• house
• organisation
• Large
• global
• city
• government
• person

A network topology shows exact physical locations of devices on a network.

• True

• False

Categorise these into their appropriate topology type.

Groups:

(a) Star

,

(b) Mesh

• All devices connected to a central switch

• Easy to add and remove devices without impacting the network.

• Expensive as a lot of hardware is required.

• Reliant upon the central node.

• 
• 
• Devices connected to multiple other devices

• Extremely robust.

To connect to a network a device must have a ​ (a)   (NIC).

Network interface cards all have a ​ (b)   ​ (c)   address, which is used to identify the device on the local network.

• MAC
• IP
• unique
• similar
• Network Interface Card
• Network Isolation Code

Which of these are valid MAC addresses?

• 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E
• 00:1A:2B:3C:4F

• 00:01:FA:FG:4A:22

• AA:BB:CC:DD:EE:FF

A switch uses MAC addresses to send data to its intended desintation.

• True

• False