1.3.2

Cards (6)

  • Wired networking:
    Ethernet refers to a collection of protocols widely used in LANs. It describes to devices how they should format data for transmission. It normally uses twisted copper cables - CAT 5 or CAT 6 but can also use fibre optic cables.
  • Wireless networking:
    How wireless networks function resolves around how WAPs work - radio waves converted to electrical signals and vice versa
  • Wireless networking: Bluetooth:
    • Usually a direct connection between two devices so that data can be shared
    • Connection range varies, typically only 10m
    • Low bandwidth compared to Wi-Fi
    • Often used in mobile/ wearable devices - smartphones, headphones, etc.
  • Wireless networking: Wi-Fi:
    • Can be used by multiple devices to connect to a LAN at the same time
    • Connections have a range between 40 and 100m
    • High bandwidth compared to Bluetooth
    • Often used in the home - routers, desktops, smartphones, etc.
    • Need a WAP and devices need a wireless NIC to connect, which is often built in, but you can use a USB or HDMI dongle
  • Wireless connection:
    Benefits:
    • More convenient - you can move around while still being connected
    • Cheaper as you need fewer wires
    Drawbacks:
    • Criminal activity - unauthorised user can hack into a network and cause damage
    • Bandwidth stealing - "Outside" users can slow the network though excessive usage, e.g. downloading software or streaming
    • Confidentiality - Some wireless networks are quite open and use un-encrypted transmissions giving intruders full visibility to data being sent
  • Wired connection:
    Benefits:
    • Faster transmission speed
    • Reliable for further
    • More secure as physical connection is required to intercept data
    Drawbacks:
    • Installation can be expensive
    • Installation requires technical knowledge
    • Installation requires space to install cables