paper 1 - section 2
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what is a LAN?
A LAN (Local Area Network) is a network that covers a small geographical area, often located on a single sight.
who owns the hardware for a LAN?
the organization using it
Why use a LAN? (what are the positives?)
• sharing files is easier - network users can access the same files, work collaboratively on them and copy files between machines • you can share the same hardware (like printers) • the internet connection can be shared between every device connected to the LAN • you can install and update software on all computers at once, rather than one-by-one • you can communicate with all LAN users cheaply and easily, e.g. with instant messaging • user accounts can be stored centrally, so users can log in from any device on the network
What is a WAN?
A WAN (Wide Area Network) is a network that connects LANs that are in different geographical locations. for example, a business with offices in three different countries would need a WAN for all their devices to connect together
Who owns the hardware for a WAN?
organisations hire infrastructure (e.g. communication lines) from telecommunications companies who own and manage the WAN. this is because a WAN is much more expensive to set up than a LAN.
Is the Internet a LAN or a WAN?
A WAN
Do most people have LANs or WANs in their homes?
Most people have LANs in their homes.
name 4 factors that can affect the performance of networks.
1 - Bandwidth (the amount of data that can be transferred in a given time) 2 - the amount of users (available bandwidth is shared between users of a network - too many users or heavy use may cause congestion and slow the network ) 3 - mode of connection (wired connections are generally faster and more reliable than wireless) 4 - choice of hardware and network topology
What is a network interface controller (NIC)?
an internal piece of hardware that allows a device to connect to a network. they used to be on separate cards, but nowadays they’re built into the motherboard.
Do switches connect devices on a LAN or a WAN?
A LAN
Do switches transmit data in frames or packets?
frames
What address do switches use to transmit data?
a MAC address
Do routers transmit data within networks or between networks?
Between networks
Do routers direct data in frames or packets?
packets
Why are routers used in homes and offices?
to connect the LAN to the Internet
What are ethernet cables used for?
They are used to connect devices in a LAN
What are ‘twisted pair cables’?
pairs of wires that are twisted together to reduce interference.
Are ethernet cables twisted pair?
Yes
Are coaxial cables twisted pair?
No
Describe the structure of coaxial cables.
A single copper wire surrounded by a plastic layer for insulation and a metallic mesh which provides shielding from outside interference.
How do fibre optic cables transmit data?
as light
list three advantages and one disadvantage of fibre optic cables.
Advantages: They are high performance They don’t suffer interference They can transmit over very large distances without loss of signal quality Disadvantage: They very expensive
What does a wireless connection use to transmit data?
Radio Waves
What is a WAP?
A Wireless Access Point - you need one to connect to a wireless network, and it is basically a switch that allows devices to connect wirelessly.