Flashcards
GCSE OCR NETWORKING FLASHCARDS
Cards in this deck (10)
- 1What are networks?A network is a collection of computers and other hardware that has been connected together in order to allow communication and sharing of resources.Wireless Adapter
The components of a network do not have to be joined together with cables. A wireless adapter can allow a computer to communicate over a network using radio signals. Wireless adapters are common on laptop computers, which are meant to be moved from place to place - 2what resources can be shared through a networkResources can include:
A file
A program
Access to a printer or security (if logon names and passwords are stored on a network, a user can usually log on using any computer on that network) - 3what different types of network are thereTypes of networks include wide area networks (WANs) and local area networks (LANs).
Both of these network types can be wired or wireless.
There are also both public and private wide or local area networks. - 4an example of a waninternet
- 5diagram for lan
- 6what components make a networkNICs are expansion cards for desktop and laptop computers. A NIC gives a computer the ability to communicate with other devices using a system called Ethernet.
Ethernet cable
An Ethernet cable contains many small copper wires twisted together in pairs. Each end has an RJ-45 connector. On wired Ethernet networks, Ethernet cables join all the components together. - 7more componentsHub, Switch or Router
Hubs, switches and routers are devices with several RJ-45 ports for Ethernet cables. These devices are responsible for linking all of the network's Ethernet cables at a central location and directing traffic to the other devices on the network, such as the cable or DSL modem, printer or server.
Internet connection
Although networks can serve a variety of different duties, most of them act as gateways for several computers to connect to the Internet. To connect to the Internet, a network needs an appropriate device such as a cable or DSL modem. - 8more componentsServer
A server is a computer that provides services to the other computers on the network. Business networks may have several servers, and the servers may be very high-end computers. Some of the services that servers can provide include email, file storage and printer sharing. - 9advantages of a networkSharing devices such as printers saves money.
Site (software) licences are likely to be cheaper than buying several standalone licences.
Files can easily be shared between users.
Network users can communicate by email and instant messenger
Security is good - users cannot see other users' files unlike on stand-alone machines.
Data is easy to backup as all the data is stored on the - 10disadvantages of networksPurchasing the network cabling and file servers can be expensive.
Managing a large network is complicated, requires training and a network manager usually needs to be employed.
If the file server breaks down the files on the file server become inaccessible. Email might still work if it is on a separate server. The computers can still be used but are isolated.
Viruses can spread to other computers throughout a computer network.
There is a danger of hacking, particularly with wide area networks. Security procedures are needed to prevent such abuse, eg a firewall.