12/ Networks

• What is a Personal Area Network (PAN)?

  A network setup between devices that are very close to each other, usually less than 10 meters apart.
• What technologies are commonly used to create PANs?

  Bluetooth, USB, infrared (irDA), and Firewire.
• What can a PAN be used for?

  Connecting devices to printers, smart watches, and car entertainment systems.
• What is Zigbee?

  A radio connection type for PANs that uses lower energy than Wi-Fi.
• What are the uses of Zigbee?

  Light switches and lightbulbs, and plug sockets.
• What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?

  A network that connects devices together over a small area, such as a building or site.
• How many nodes can a LAN contain?

  A LAN may contain as few as two nodes or hundreds of nodes.
• How are devices connected in a LAN?

  Devices are plugged into a network switch which connects one device to another.
• What is a Wireless LAN (WLAN)?

  A LAN where devices are connected using a Wireless Access Point (WAP).
• How does a Wireless Access Point (WAP) connect to a network switch?

  A WAP requires both power and a connection cable.
• What type of cable is typically used to connect Wireless Access Points?

  An ethernet cable, usually a 5e cable.
• What is the advantage of Power over Ethernet (PoE) for WAPs?

  It allows the ethernet cable to deliver power to the device, needing only one cable.
• What equipment is typically found in a home network?

  A router, which contains a wireless access point (WAP), modem, and wired switch.
• What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

  A network that spans different regions or countries.
• How are different sites connected in a WAN?

  They are connected over public fixed lines leased to the company.
• What is a software-defined wide area network (SD-WAN)?

  A WAN that uses a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to connect different parts via the Internet.
• What are the advantages of leased lines in WANs?

  Symmetric speeds, a dedicated line, fast fault fixing, and better security.
• What is the purpose of a Virtual Private Network (VPN)?

  To connect devices or networks to other networks via the Internet securely.
• How does a VPN keep communications secure?

  By using encryption to secure communications over the Internet.
• What types of networks are used in a home with various devices?

  PAN for connecting smartphones and wireless headphones, and LAN for connecting other devices.
• What are the features and purposes of different networks?

  • Personal Area Network (PAN): Connects devices close to each other.
  • Local Area Network (LAN): Connects devices over a small area.
  • Wide Area Network (WAN): Connects devices across regions or countries.
  • Virtual Private Network (VPN): Connects devices securely over the Internet.
• What are the implications of connecting devices to form a network for individuals and organizations?

  • Enhanced communication and collaboration.
  • Improved data sharing and access.
  • Increased security through VPNs.
  • Potential for increased complexity and maintenance needs.