Network Types & Performance

• What is a network?

  A network is multiple computer systems connected
• How are networks categorized?

  By geographical distance and area served
• What are the two main types of networks mentioned?

  • Local Area Network (LAN)
  • Wide Area Network (WAN)
• How does a client-server network function?

  Clients request data from a server, which responds
• What is an example of a client-server request?

  Accessing www.bbc.co.uk from a web server
• What is the dependency of clients in a client-server network?

  Clients depend on the server for information
• What does the server control in a client-server network?

  Network security, backups, and upgrades
• What are the advantages of a client-server network?

  • Central control for backups and updates
  • Shared hardware, software, and resources
  • Improved scalability for adding clients
• What are the disadvantages of a client-server network?

  • Traffic congestion slows the network
  • Server faults cause network failure
  • Requires IT technicians for maintenance
  • Malware can spread quickly
• How does a peer-to-peer network function?

  Data is shared directly between systems
• What is a key advantage of peer-to-peer networks?

  They are optimal for sharing files directly
• What are the disadvantages of peer-to-peer networks?

  • No central management for security or backups
  • Backups must be done on each system
  • Performance decreases with more devices
• What are the advantages of peer-to-peer networks?

  • Simpler setup without a server
  • Clients are not dependent on a server
  • Quick file sharing between systems
• What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?

  A LAN has systems close together, like in a building
• Who usually owns the infrastructure of a LAN?

  The network owner manages the infrastructure
• What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

  A WAN connects systems over long distances
• What do WANs often use for communication?

  Third-party communication channels
• What are other types of networks mentioned?

  • Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
  • Personal Area Network (PAN)
• What are data packets?

  Small parts of files sent across a network
• Why are data packets used?

  To transfer data quickly across a network
• How are data packets redirected?

  Routers redirect packets across networks
• What happens when all data packets arrive at their destination?

  They are reassembled into the original file
• What are the contents of a data packet?

  • Header
  • Payload
  • Trailer
  • Source address
  • Destination address
  • Packet number
  • Protocol
  • Checksum
• What is network topology?

  Layout of computer systems on a network
• What are devices in a network topology diagram called?

  Nodes
• What are the two types of network topology mentioned?

  • Star Topology
  • Mesh Topology
• How does a star topology work?

  Each system connects to a central hub or switch
• What does the hub or switch do in a star topology?

  Transfers packets to the intended computer
• What are the advantages of a star topology?

  • Improved security for data packets
  • New systems can be added easily
  • Minimal network collisions for fast speeds
• What are the disadvantages of a star topology?

  • Requires extra hardware (hub/switch)
  • Central system failure makes the network unusable
• How does a mesh topology work?

  Each system connects to every other system
• What happens if a pathway is broken in a mesh topology?

  Data packets take alternative routes
• What are the advantages of a mesh topology?

  • Alternative routes for data packets
  • Can withstand large amounts of data traffic
  • New systems can be added without disruption
• What are the disadvantages of a mesh topology?

  • Expensive to install and maintain
  • Possible redundant cabling issues
• What factors affect network performance?

  • Bandwidth available
  • Interference (e.g., thick walls)
  • Applications in use
  • Number of simultaneous users
  • Distance to travel / signal strength
  • Server / CPU performance
  • Number of data collisions
  • Amount of data to transfer
• What is bandwidth?

  Maximum data sent across a network at once
• What is the exam board and specification mentioned?

  OCR Specification J277
• What is the copyright notice at the bottom of the page?

  © CSNewbs 2024
• What is the title of the unit discussed?

  Fundamentals of IT
• What is the topic of the questions section?

  Network Types & Performance