Fundamentals of computer networks

• What is a network in computing?

  A group of interconnected computers/devices
• What is the purpose of connecting computers in a network?

  For the purpose of communication
• What is a wired connection?

  A connection that needs wires or cables
• What is a wireless connection?

  A connection that does not need wires
• What is Wi-Fi?

  A method of connecting to the internet wirelessly
• What is a stand-alone device?

  A device not connected to a network
• What types of devices can be connected to a network?

  PCs, smartphones, smartwatches, and more
• What is the main benefit of networking computers?

  Many computing applications become possible
• Why is networking important in computing?

  It enables communication and resource sharing
• How do wired and wireless connections differ in data transmission?

  Wired uses cables, wireless uses radio signals
• If a device is not connected to any network, what is it called?

  A stand-alone device
• What is the role of a network in computing applications?

  It allows multiple devices to communicate
• What is a network?

  A group of interconnected computers/devices
• What are the three classifications of networks?

  LANs, WANs, PANs
• What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?

  • Covers a small area, like a school
  • Owned and maintained by an organization
  • Examples: small businesses, homes
• What is the geographical scope of a LAN?

  Geographically confined to one building or site
• What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

  • Spreads over a wide geographical area
  • Connects multiple sites or offices
  • Used by organizations like banks
• What is the primary function of a WAN?

  To connect multiple offices or branches
• How do WANs facilitate communication?

  Through national telephone infrastructures or wireless transmission
• What is the internet classified as?

  A global network connecting millions of computers
• What is a Personal Area Network (PAN)?

  A network that connects personal devices
• What are the characteristics of a PAN?

  • Covers a very small area, usually a few metres
  • Connects devices like smartphones and headphones
  • Can create a hotspot using a smartphone
• What technologies are used to set up a PAN?

  Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• What is the key fact about a LAN?

  A LAN is geographically confined to one building or site
• What is the key fact about a WAN?

  A WAN is spread over a wide geographical area
• What is the key fact about a PAN?

  A PAN is used to connect personal devices
• What is the purpose of creating a hotspot with a smartphone?

  To connect devices using limited Wi-Fi
• What is the role of wireless technology in PANs?

  It transmits data over short distances
• What is Bluetooth used for?

  Transmitting data over short distances
• How does a WAN connect different LANs?

  By linking them through a wide area network
• How do LANs and WANs differ in terms of geographical coverage?

  LANs cover small areas; WANs cover large areas
• What is the relationship between PANs and personal devices?

  PANs connect personal devices over short distances
• What is the main benefit of networking computers?

  It enables many computing applications
• What are the two types of networks discussed?

  • Wired networks
  • Wireless networks
• What is a wired network?

  A connection that needs wires or cables
• How are wired networks identified?

  By their use of physical wiring
• Where are wired networks most often used?

  In office networks or stationary devices
• What is a wireless network?

  A connection that does not need wires
• How do wireless networks transmit data?

  Through radio signals
• What is the typical range of wireless signals?

  Usually up to 50 metres