Topic 3 - Networks (definitions)

Computer network in which a “bus” connects all the devices together through a common cable.

Copper wire (usually coaxial and twisted pair) and fibre (fibre optic cable-made from glass) Cables allow for the connection of computers over a network.

Extra digit added to numerical data that is used to check data, integrity after input, transmission, storage and processing.

The accuracy of data after input, transmission, storage or processing.

Error—detecting procedure that generates a sum from the digits of a number.

Portion of a message that is transmitted through a network. Contains data such as check digits and destination address.

Link that resides between computer networks and is responsible for converting data passing through into the appropriate format so it can be understood by the receiving network.

Exchange of predetermined signals to signify that a connection has been established between two systems.

Network connection point for devices. Data arriving at a hub is copied and send to all the devices on the network.

International communications standard that allows for the transmission of audio/video and other data over digital telephone lines.

Computer network where all the connected computers are within a limited geographical area (ex. a home, school, etc.). Connection between the computers may be through cables and/or microwave transmission.

Electronic communication without the need for cables.

Electronic equipment that converts computer digital signals into audio signals and back. The audio signals are transmitted over telephone lines, which allows for distant communication.

Computer systems that are interconnected and can share resources and data.

Group of bits. May include control signals, error control bits, coded information, as well as the destination for the data.

Network communication method that creates and transmits small units of data, called packets, through a network, independently of the overall message.

Making use of a network.

Error-detecting procedure that appends a binary digit to a group of binary digits. The sum of all the digits, including the appended binary digit, establishes the accuracy of the data after input, transmission, storage or processing.

International rules that ensure the transfer of data between systems. A protocol that is recognized as the standard for a specific type of transfer is called standard protocol. For example: TCP/IP is a standard protocol.

Communications protocols used to connect hosts on the Internet.