Unit 1.5 - Network Topologies

Unit 1.5 - Network Topologies

1. Key Words

   • Mesh Network
   • Star Network
   • WiFi
   • Encryption
   • Ethernet
   • IP Addressing
   • Topology
   • Protocols
   • MAC Addressing

2. Benefits

   • WiFi
     • Cheap set-up
     • Can connect multiple devices without extra hardware
     • No disruption to building ocours
     • User not tied down to a specific location
   • Ethernet
     • Reduced possibility to be hacked
     • Faster traffic speed
     • Generally good signal
     • Stable connection

3. Encryption

   • Encryption is a method of scrambling data with a key code that makes no sense
   • When you are using a secure site, a padlock appears in your search bar and the web address starts with HTTPS://
   • The encryption method used is called 'SSL' (Secure Socket Layer)

4. Addresses

   • IP Address
     • A unique string of numbers of separated by full stops that identifies each computer using the protocol to communicate over a network
   • MAC Address
     • The built in address embedded into the NIC. The user cannot change this

5. Packets

   • Contains:
     • Senders Address
     • Receivers address
     • Sequence number
     • Time it has to live

6. Networks

   • Mesh Network
     • A mesh network is where all or some of the workstations and devices are connected directly to each other
   • Star Network
     • Each device is connected directly to the server. They tend to be the most reliable of topologies.