Network Hardware & Internet

• What are data packets?

  Smaller parts of files for transfer
• Why are data packets used in networks?

  To transfer data quickly across networks
• How do routers handle data packets?

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

  They are reassembled into the original file
• What is the function of a Wireless Access Point?

  Links wireless and wired networks
• Give an example of a Wireless Access Point in public spaces.

  WiFi hotspot in a coffee shop
• What is a router used for?

  To transfer data packets between networks
• How do routers determine the best route for data packets?

  Using the IP address in the packet header
• What is a routing table?

  A list used to calculate data transfer routes
• What is the purpose of a switch?

  Connect devices on a LAN
• How does a switch forward data packets?

  By reading the destination address in the header
• What is a Network Interface Controller (NIC)?

  Hardware for connecting to a network
• What does a NIC include for data transmission?

  A MAC address for LAN communication
• How has the NIC evolved in modern computers?

  Typically embedded on the motherboard
• What are the three common types of transmission media?

  Ethernet cables, Fibre Optic cables, Coaxial cables
• What is the primary use of Ethernet cables?

  Transfer data between nodes on a LAN
• What is unique about Fibre Optic cables?

  They send data as pulses of light
• Why are Coaxial cables less used today?

  They are affected by electromagnetic interference
• What is the internet?

  A global network of interconnected networks
• How is the World Wide Web different from the internet?

  It is a way to access information
• What role do servers play on the internet?

  They provide services like web hosting
• What must a website do to be accessible on the internet?

  Be hosted on a web server
• What is a domain name?

  An easy-to-remember address for a website
• What does a DNS server do?

  Stores domain names and corresponding IP addresses
• What is the first step to display a web page?

  A domain name is typed into the browser
• What happens if the local DNS server does not hold the IP address?

  The query is passed to a higher-level DNS server
• What is cloud computing?

  Accessing networks of servers via the internet
• What is an advantage of cloud storage?

  Allows simultaneous file access by multiple users
• What is a disadvantage of cloud storage?

  Data could become inaccessible if the internet fails
• What are the characteristics of cloud storage?

  • Huge capacity, upgradeable subscription
  • Portability depends on internet connection
  • Typically free for limited storage
• What is the free storage limit for Dropbox?

  2 GB
• What is the cost for 2 TB of storage on Dropbox?

  £9.99 a month