Networks 2.0

• What is a network?


  A network is an arrangement of two or more computers connected together for sharing resources and data.
• Why are computers connected in a network?

  To share resources and data among multiple users.
• What types of devices can be linked together in a network?

  Desktops, laptops, tablets, e-readers, gaming systems, shop tills, and IoT devices.
• What are the main services provided by a network?

  Sharing data files, hardware devices, internet connections, communication services, and centralized IT support.
• What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?


  A LAN covers a relatively small area, often a single site like a home or school.
• What is the primary function of a network manager in an organization?

  To install, configure, and maintain the LAN, support users, and implement backup and security measures.
• What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?


  A WAN spans multiple sites over a large geographical area using various transmission media.
• How does a WAN benefit organizations with multiple sites?

  It enables data synchronization and sharing across the whole business and allows employees to access shared resources from anywhere.
• What is the internet classified as?

  The internet is the world's largest public WAN.
• What are the two important factors to consider when thinking about network speed?

  Bandwidth and latency.
• What does bandwidth measure?

  Bandwidth measures the maximum volume of data that can be transferred per second.
• What is latency in a network?

  Latency is the time between data transmission and its arrival at the destination, measured in milliseconds.
• When is latency more important than bandwidth?

  Latency is more important during VoIP calls where real-time communication is necessary.
• What are the units of measurement for network speeds?

  Bits per second (bps), kilobits per second (Kbps), megabits per second (Mbps), and gigabits per second (Gbps).
• How do you calculate the time to transfer a file over a network?

  By dividing the file size in bits by the transmission speed in bits per second.
• What are the two types of transmission media for connecting devices in a network?

  Wired and wireless transmission media.
• What is the most common type of wired transmission medium used to set up a LAN?

  Unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable.
• How does fiber optic cable transmit data?

  Fiber optic cable transmits data as pulses of light.
• What are the advantages of fiber optic cable over copper wire?

  Fiber optic cable has low latency, is not affected by electrical interference, and can transmit data over longer distances at higher speeds.
• What are the characteristics of Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs)?


  **LAN Characteristics:**

  • Covers a small area (e.g., home, school)
  • Typically privately owned
  • Allows sharing of data and devices

  
  

  **WAN Characteristics:**

  • Covers a large geographical area
  • Connects multiple LANs
  • Maintained by telecommunication companies
• What are the key differences between copper wire and fiber optic cable?

  **Copper Wire:**

  • Transmits data as electrical pulses
  • Short range (up to 100 meters)
  • Higher latency due to interference

  
  

  **Fiber Optic Cable:**

  • Transmits data as pulses of light
  • Long range with no signal loss
  • Lower latency and higher speed
• What is gradually replacing the ageing copper wire telephone network in the UK?

  Fiber optic technology.
• What is the primary method of data transmission used by copper wire?

  Transmits data as electrical pulses
• What is the maximum range of copper wire (UTP CAT6) for data transmission?

  Up to 100 metres
• Why does copper wire have high latency?

  Because copper is susceptible to interference and latency increases the further the signal travels
• What is the maximum speed of data transmission for copper wire (UTP CAT6)?

  Up to 10 Gbps
• What is the primary method of data transmission used by fibre optic cables?

  Transmits data as pulses of light
• What is the range of fibre optic cables for data transmission?

  Can transmit data over long distances with no loss of signal strength
• What is the maximum speed of data transmission for fibre optic cables?

  Up to 100 Gbps
• Why does fibre optic cable have low latency?

  Data transmission is less subject to interference
• What is the purpose of fibre to the cabinet (FTTC) connections?

  To connect homes and businesses to the broadband network via a combination of fibre optic and copper cables
• What does FTTP stand for?

  Fibre to the premises
• What is the advantage of FTTP over FTTC?

  It provides a much faster broadband connection by using fibre optic cable for the entire connection
• What type of signals do wireless transmission media use?

  Radio waves, microwave, or infrared signals
• What is the typical range of a Wi-Fi signal?

  Up to 100 meters
• What is the maximum speed of a typical Wi-Fi signal?

  Up to 10 Gbps
• What is the role of a router in a Wi-Fi network?

  A router manages communications on the network and can act as a gateway to the internet for all connected devices
• How does the presence of obstructions affect a Wi-Fi network?

  Obstructions can significantly reduce the range and quality of the Wi-Fi signal
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of wired connections?

  Advantages:

  • Can transmit data over long distances
  • Fast - up to 10 Gbps per connection
  • Low latency
  • Consistent speed due to less interference
  • More secure as data is not easily intercepted

  
  

  Disadvantages:

  • Installation is time-consuming and disruptive
  • Can present trip hazards
  • Expanding the network requires additional cabling
• What are the advantages and disadvantages of wireless connections?

  Advantages:

  • Less time-consuming and disruptive to install
  • Very flexible; devices can move without losing connection
  • No physical cables required

  
  

  Disadvantages:

  • Slower speeds (up to 3.2 Gbps with 802.11ac)
  • Performance can be inconsistent due to interference
  • Less secure; data needs encryption to prevent interception