Chapter 1 Cisco CNNA 1

Fault Tolerance

A fault tolerant network is one that limits the impact of a failure, so that the fewest number of devices are affected. It is also built in a way that allows quick recovery when such a failure occurs. These networks depend on multiple paths between the source and destination of a message. If one path fails, the messages can be instantly sent over a different link. Having multiple paths to a destination is known as redundancy. One way reliable networks provide redundancy is by implementing a packet-switched network. Packet switching splits traffic into packets that are routed over a shared network. A single message, such as an email or a video stream, is broken into multiple message blocks, called packets. Each packet has the necessary addressing information of the source and destination of the message. The routers within the network switch the packets based on the condition of the network at that moment. This means that all the packets in a single message could take very different paths to the destination. In the figure, the user is not aware and is unaffected by the router dynamically changing the route when a link fails. A circuit-switched network is one that establishes a dedicated circuit between the source and destination before the users may communicate. If the call is unexpectedly terminated, the users must initiate a new connection.

Scalability

A scalable network can expand quickly to support new users and applications without impacting the performance of the service being delivered to existing users. a new network can be easily added to an existing network. In addition, networks are scalable because the designers follow accepted standards and protocols. This allows software and hardware vendors to focus on improving products and services without worrying about designing a new set of rules for operating within the network.

What is the meaning of wide area network?

A wide area network (WAN) is a computer network that spans a relatively large geographical area and consists of two or more interconnected local area networks (LANs). A LAN is a network that connects computers and other devices in a relatively small area, typically a single building or a group of adjacent buildings.

What is the use of WAN Miniport?

A wide area network mini port (WAN mini port) is a driver that permits alternative connection methods in Windows XP and later version of Windows such as point-to-point protocol over Ethernet (PPoE) and wireless networking making WAN setup possible.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using a network?

Advantages

What are Hosts?

All computers connected to a network that participate directly in network communication are classified as hosts. Hosts are also called end devices.

What are the three primary requirements of security? •

Confidentiality - Data confidentiality means that only the intended and authorized recipients can access and read data. • Integrity - Data integrity means having the assurance that the information has not been altered in transmission, from origin to destination. • Availability - Data availability means having the assurance of timely and reliable access to data services for authorized users.

Traditional Separate Network

Consider a school built thirty years ago. Back then, some classrooms were cabled for the data network, telephone network, and video network for televisions. These separate networks could not communicate with each other. Consider a school built thirty years ago. Back then, some classrooms were cabled for the data network, telephone network, and video network for televisions. These separate networks could not communicate with each other.

Network components

Hubs Switches Bridges Routers Gateways CSU/DSU Network interface cards (NICs), ISDN adapters, and system area network cards Wireless access points (WAPs) Modems

What is a Gigabit Ethernet WAN port used for?

If you plug a Gigabit Ethernet device and an regular Ethernet device into a router, the connection between the two will be capped at the speed of Ethernet, which is 100 Mbps. In short, LAN ports on a router allow Ethernet-ready devices to connect to one another and share data.

What is the WAN port used for?

In the home and small business, a WAN port is an RJ-45 Ethernet port on a router that is wired to a cable or DSL modem. On small routers, the WAN port may be labeled simply "Internet." In the larger enterprise, a WAN port may hook up to a T3 line or other wide area network service. Contrast with LAN port.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of wireless LAN?

Mobility. Mobility enables users to physically move while using an appliance, such as a handheld PC or data collector. ... Installation in Difficult-to-Wire Areas. ... Increased Reliability. ... Reduced Installation Time. ... Long-Term Cost Savings.

How do network interface cards work?

NIC (network interface card) is a gadget that works as a bridge between computers. In other words, this piece of equipment is used to join together multiple computer systems in a local area network (LAN).

Network Architecture

Networks must support a wide range of applications and services, as well as operate over many different types of cables and devices, which make up the physical infrastructure. The term network architecture, in this context, refers to the technologies that support the infrastructure and the programmed services and rules, or protocols, that move data across the network. As networks evolve, we are discovering that there are four basic characteristics that the underlying architectures need to address in order to meet user expectations :• Fault Tolerance • Quality of Service (QoS) • Scalability • Security

what are the disadvantages of using a network?

Purchasing 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.

Quality of Service

Quality of Service (QoS) is also an ever increasing requirement of networks today. New applications available to users over internetworks, such as voice and live video transmissions, create higher expectations for the quality of the delivered services. Have you ever tried to watch a video with constant breaks and pauses? As data, voice, and video content continue to converge onto the same network, QoS becomes a primary mechanism for managing congestion and ensuring reliable delivery of content to all users.

Security Threats

The most common external threats to networks include: • Viruses, worms, and Trojan horses - malicious software and arbitrary code running on a user device • Spyware and adware - software installed on a user device that secretly collects information about the user • Zero-day attacks, also called zero-hour attacks - an attack that occurs on the first day that a vulnerability becomes known. • Hacker attacks - an attack by a knowledgeable person to user devices or network resources. • Denial of service attacks - attacks designed to slow or crash applications and processes on a network device• Data interception and theft - an attack to capture private information from an organization's network • Identity theft - an attack to steal the login credentials of a user in order to access private data.

Custom Clouds

The most common vector for data loss includes instant messaging software and social media sites. For instance, intercepted email or IM messages could be captured and reveal confidential information.

What are end devices?

The network devices that people are most familiar with are called end devices. An end device is either the source or destination of a message transmitted over the network. To distinguish one end device from another, each end device on a network is identified by an address. When an end device initiates communication, it uses the address of the destination end device to specify where the message should be sent.

New Trends

The role of the network is transforming to enable the connections between people, devices, and information. There are several new networking trends that will effect organizations and consumers. Some of the top trends include: • Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) • Online collaboration• Video communications • Cloud computing

What is the difference between a router and a modem?

The two major components in a small computer network are a modem (cable or DSL) and a wireless router. The router is wired to the modem, and the modem is wired to the cable company's coaxial cable or the telephone company's DSL phone line. For Internet access via satellite, the router is wired to a satellite modem.

How do you configure a wireless access point?

To check the wireless MAC Address of the wireless router follow the steps below. Access the router's web-based setup page. .. .When the router's web-based setup page opens, click Status then click Wireless. Take note of the MAC Address. Connect a computer to the access point. Assign a static IP address on the computer.

What functions do Intermediary devices do?

To provide connectivity and work behind the scenes to ensure that data flows across the network. Intermediary devices connect the individual hosts to the network and can connect multiple individual networks to form an internetwork.

What are Converged networks?

Today, the separate data, telephone, and video networks are converging. Unlike dedicated networks, converged networks are capable of delivering data, voice, and video between many different types of devices over the same network infrastructure, as shown in the figure. This network infrastructure uses the same set of rules, agreements, and implementation standards.

What is a Router?

Transfers data from one network to another.

Examples of wide area networks

WANs are a network infrastructure that spans a wide geographical area. WANs are typically managed by service providers (SP) or Internet Service Providers (ISP).

What is the role of a gateway?

While forwarding an IP packet to another network, the gateway might or might not perform Network Address Translation. A gateway is an essential feature of most routers, although other devices (such as any PC or server) can function as a gateway.

What Does LAn Stand For?

local-area network

What is a difference between LAN and WAN?

the difference between a LAN, a MAN, and a WAN? A LAN (local area network) is a group of computers and network devices connected together, usually within the same building. By definition, the connections must be high speed and relatively inexpensive (e.g., token ring or Ethernet).

What is LAN and its advantages and disadvantages?

you can share peripherals like expensive laser printers. a fileserver can be used to store and share documents and files centrally. electronic messages (email) can be sent between computers. the computers on the network can be centrally managed.

Security Solutions

• Antivirus and antispyware - These are used to protect end devices from becoming infected with malicious software .• Firewall filtering - This is used to block unauthorized access to the network. This may include a host-based firewall system that is implemented to prevent unauthorized access to the end device, or a basic filtering service on the home router to prevent unauthorized access from the outside world into the network. • Dedicated firewall systems - These are used to provide more advanced firewall capabilities that can filter large amounts of traffic with more granularity. • Access control lists (ACL) - These are used to further filter access and traffic forwarding. • Intrusion prevention systems (IPS) - These are used to identify fast-spreading threats, such as zero-day or zero-hour attacks. • Virtual private networks (VPN) - These are used to provide secure access to remote workers.

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)

BYOD is about end users having the freedom to use personal tools to access information and communicate across a business or campus network. With the growth of consumer devices, and the related drop in cost, employees and students can be expected to have some of the most advanced computing and networking tools for personal use. These personal tools include laptops, netbooks, tablets, smartphones, and e-readers. These can be devices purchased by the company or school, purchased by the individual, or both.

What is a Repeater?

Boosts the signal in a network after it has been distorted and made smaller

What is the difference between a modem and a CSU DSU?

A CSU/DSU terminates a digital local loop, while a modem terminates an analog local loop. A CSU/DSU converts digital signals from a router to a leased line; a modem converts digital signals from a router to a phone line.

What is a network interface card and how does it work?

A Network interface card, NIC, or Network card is an electronic device that connects a computer to a computer network, usually a LAN. It is considered a piece of computer hardware. Today, most computers have network cards.

what does a system area networks do?

A SAN (system area network) is a relatively local network designed for high-speed interconnection in cluster environments (server to server), multiprocessing systems (processor to processor), and SANs (storage area networks). ... Fibre Channel is an example of a SAN technology.

What is the difference between a router and a bridge?

A bridge is a product that connects a local area network (LAN) to another local area network that uses the same protocol (for example, Ethernet or Token Ring). ... A router is often included as part of a network switch. Note: Learn more about the difference between a bridge and a switch in this expert Q/A.

What is a bridge and its purpose?

A bridge is a structure built to span physical obstacles without closing the way underneath such as a body of water, valley, or road, for the purpose of providing passage over the obstacle. There are many different designs that each serve a particular purpose and apply to different situations.

What is the function of a bridge in a network?

A bridge is a type of computer network device that provides interconnection with other bridge networks that use the same protocol. Bridge devices work at the data link layer of the Open System Interconnect (OSI) model, connecting two different networks together and providing communication between them.

What is the gateway for IP?

A gateway IP refers to a device on a network which sends local network traffic to other networks. The subnet mask number helps to define the relationship between the host (computers, routers, switches, etc.) and the rest of the network.

what do gateways do in a network?

A gateway is a hardware device that acts as a "gate" between two networks. It may be a router, firewall, server, or other device that enables traffic to flow in and out of the network. While a gateway protects the nodes within network, it also a node itself.

Is the default gateway the same as router IP?

A gateway is a node (router) in a computer network, a key stopping point for data on its way to or from other networks. Thanks to gateways, we are able to communicate and send data back and forth. The Internet wouldn't be any use to us without gateways (as well as a lot of other hardware and software).

What Is A Hub?

A hardware device that connects several network devices, e.g. in a star network.

What do hubs do?

A hub is a common connection point for devices in a network. Hubs are commonly used to connect segments of a LAN. A hub contains multiple ports. When a packet arrives at one port, it is copied to the other ports so that all segments of the LAN can see all packets.

Hybrid Clouds

A hybrid cloud is made up of two or more clouds (example: part custom, part public), where each part remains a distinctive object, but both are connected using a single architecture. Individuals on a hybrid cloud would be able to have degrees of access to various services based on user access rights.

what does a modem do in a network?

A modem is a device or program that enables a computer to transmit data over, for example, telephone or cable lines. Computer information is stored digitally, whereas information transmitted over telephone lines is transmitted in the form of analog waves.

What is a modem and what does it do?

A modem is a device that provides access to the Internet (see below). The modem connects to your ISP, which typically provides either cable or DSL Internet service. Cable modems have a coaxial (or "coax") connection, which is the same type of connector found on a TV or cable box.

How does a modem work?

A modem is typically used to send digital data over a phone line. The sending modem modulates the data into a signal that is compatible with the phone line, and the receiving modem demodulates the signal back into digital data. Wireless modems convert digital data into radio signals and back.

what does a ISDN adapters do?

In ISDN terminology, a terminal adapter or TA is a device that connects a terminal (computer) to the ISDN network. The TA therefore fulfills a similar function to the ones a modem has on the POTS network, and is therefore sometimes called an ISDN modem.

What Does WAN Stand For?

A wide area network (WAN) is a telecommunications network or computer network that extends over a large geographical distance. Wide area networks are often established with leased telecommunication circuits.

What is the purpose of a wireless access point?

A wireless access point (WAP) is a hardware device or configured node on a local area network (LAN) that allows wireless capable devices and wired networks to connect through a wireless standard, including Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

How does a wifi bridge work?

A wireless bridge connects two wired networks together over Wi-Fi. The wireless bridge acts as a client, logging in to the primary router and getting an Internet connection, which it passes on to the devices connected to its LAN Jacks.

What is a wireless network interface card?

A wireless network interface controller (WNIC) is a network interface controller which connects to a wireless radio-based computer network, rather than a wired network, such as Token Ring or Ethernet. A WNIC, just like other NICs, works on the Layer 1 and Layer 2 of the OSI Model.

What is the difference between a router and an access point?

A wireless router connects a group of wireless stations to an adjacent wired network. Conceptually, a wireless router is a wireless AP combined with an Ethernet router. A wireless router forwards IP packets between your wireless subnet and any other subnet.

What is an Ethernet bridge?

An Ethernet network bridge is a device which connects two different local area networks together. Both networks must connect using the same Ethernet protocol. Bridges can also be used to add remote computers to a LAN. Many bridges can connect multiple computers or other compatible devices with or without wires.

How does a wireless access point work?

An access point is a device that creates a wireless local area network, or WLAN, usually in an office or large building. An access point connects to a wired router, switch, or hub via an Ethernet cable, and projects a Wi-Fi signal to a designated area.

Example of Local Area Network

LANs are a network infrastructure that spans a small geographical area. Specific features of LANs include: • LANs interconnect end devices in a limited area such as a home, school, office building, or campus. • A LAN is usually administered by a single organization or individual. The administrative control that governs the security and access control policies are enforced on the network level. • LANs provide high speed bandwidth to internal end devices and intermediary devices.

What Does LAN Stand For?

Local Area Network

What is a managed switch?

Managed switches give you greater security and more features and flexibility, because you can configure them to custom-fit your network. With this greater control, you can better protect your network and improve the quality of service for those who access the network.

Home and office internet connections 2 •

Satellite - The availability of satellite Internet access is a real benefit in those areas that would otherwise have no Internet connectivity at all. Satellite dishes require a clear line of sight to the satellite. • Dial-up Telephone - An inexpensive option that uses any phone line and a modem. The low bandwidth provided by a dial-up modem connection is usually not sufficient for large data transfer, although it is useful for mobile access while traveling.

What is a server?

Servers are computers with software that enable them to provide information, like email or web pages, to other end devices on the network. Each service requires separate server software. For example, a server requires web server software in order to provide web services to the network.

Wireless Broadband

Wireless Internet Service Provider (WISP) is an ISP that connects subscribers to a designated access point or hot spot using similar wireless technologies found in home wireless local area networks (WLANs). WISPs are more commonly found in rural environments where DSL or cable services are not available. Although a separate transmission tower may be installed for the antenna, it is common that the antenna is attached to an existing elevated structure, such as a water tower or a radio tower. A small dish or antenna is installed on the subscriber's roof in range of the WISP transmitter. Another wireless solution for the home and small businesses is wireless broadband. This uses the same cellular technology used to access the Internet with a smart phone or tablet. An antenna is installed outside the house providing either wireless or wired connectivity for devices in the home. In many areas, home wireless broadband is competing directly with DSL and cable services.

What is a wireless access point?

Wireless access point. ... The AP usually connects to a router (via a wired network) as a standalone device, but it can also be an integral component of the router itself. An AP is differentiated from a hotspot, which is the physical location where Wi-Fi access to a WLAN is available.

what does a wireless access point do in a network?

Wireless access point. ... The AP usually connects to a router (via a wired network) as a standalone device, but it can also be an integral component of the router itself. An AP is differentiated from a hotspot, which is the physical location where Wi-Fi access to a WLAN is available.

Examples of Intermediary devices

Wireless router Lan Switch Router Multimedia Switch Firewall Appliance

What is the main function of a modem?

he name modem means modulator demodulator. A modem connects our computer to a standard phone line or to our cable, which allows us to send data or receive data. A modem is a conversion device that converts signals from one device into signals another device can read.

What is CSU DSU used for?

A CSU/DSU (Channel Service Unit/Data Service Unit) is a digital-interface device used to connect data terminal equipment (DTE), such as a router, to a digital circuit, such as a Digital Signal 1 (DS1) T1 line. The CSU/DSU implements two different functions.

what do CSU/DSU do in a network?

A CSU/DSU (Channel Service Unit/Data Service Unit) is a hardware device about the size of an external modem that converts a digital data frame from the communications technology used on a local area network (LAN) into a frame appropriate to a wide-area network (WAN) and vice versa.

What does a bridge connection do?

A network bridge is software or hardware that connects two or more networks so that they can communicate. People with home or small office networks generally use a bridge when they have different types of networks but they want to exchange information or share files among all of the computers on those networks.

What is San in network?

A storage area network (SAN) is a network which provides access to consolidated, block level data storage. SANs are primarily used to enhance storage devices, such as disk arrays, tape libraries, and optical jukeboxes, accessible to servers so that the devices appear to the operating system as locally attached devices.

Can I use a wireless access point as a router?

Access Points are still used in many networks they are used to help with WiFi dead spots and extending a wireless network. Most anyone who has a internet connection has a router. A router is a network device that can transfer data wirelessly or wired. A router can be a access point but a access point cant be a router.

What is Extranet?

An organization may use an extranet to provide secure and safe access to individuals who work for a different organization, but require access to the organization's data. Examples of extranets include: • A company that is providing access to outside suppliers and contractors. • A hospital that is providing a booking system to doctors so they can make appointments for their patients. • A local office of education that is providing budget and personnel information to the schools in its district.

What is an unmanaged switch?

An unmanaged network switch is designed so that you can simply plug them in and they work, no configuration required. Unmanaged switches are typically for basic connectivity. You'll often see them used in home networks or wherever a few more ports are needed, such as at your desk, in a lab, or in a conference room.

Home and office internet connections 1 •

Cable- Typically offered by cable television service providers, the Internet data signal is carried on the same cable that delivers cable television. It provides a high bandwidth, always on, connection to the Internet. • DSL - Digital Subscriber Lines provide a high bandwidth, always on, connection to the Internet. DSL runs over a telephone line. In general, small office and home office users connect using Asymmetrical DSL (ADSL), which means that the download speed is faster than the upload speed. • Cellular - Cellular Internet access uses a cell phone network to connect. Wherever you can get a cellular signal, you can get cellular Internet access. Performance will be limited by the capabilities of the phone and the cell tower to which it is connected.

What is a peer to Peer network?

Client and server software usually runs on separate computers, but it is also possible for one computer to carry out both roles at the same time. In small businesses and homes, many computers function as the servers and clients on the network. This type of network is called a peer-to-peer network.

What are Clients?

Clients are computers with software installed that enable them to request and display the information obtained from the server. An example of client software is a web browser, like Chrome or FireFox. A single computer can also run multiple types of client software. For example, a user can check email and view a web page while instant messaging and listening to Internet radio.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing allows us to store personal files, even backup our entire hard disk drive on servers over the Internet. Applications such as word processing and photo editing can be accessed using the Cloud. There are four primary types of Clouds, public Clouds, Private Clouds, Hybrid Clouds, and Custom Clouds. Cloud computing is possible because of data centers. A data center is a facility used to house computer systems and associated components.

Private Clouds

Cloud-based applications and services offered in a private cloud are intended for a specific organization or entity, such as the government. A private cloud can be set up using the organization's private network, though this can be expensive to build and maintain. A private cloud can also be managed by an outside organization with strict access security.

Public Clouds

Cloud-based applications and services offered in a public cloud are made available to the general population. Services may be free or are offered on a pay-per-use model, such as paying for online storage. The public cloud uses the Internet to provide services.

What is network media?

Communication across a network is carried on a medium. The medium provides the channel over which the message travels from source to destination. Modern networks primarily use three types of media to interconnect devices and to provide the pathway over which data can be transmitted.

What is a bridge?

Connects two networks together that have the same protocol.

What does a modem do?

Converts network signals from digital to analogue and analogue to digital.

Network media

Copper Fiber Optic Wireless

Businesses Internet Connections

Dedicated Leased Line - Leased lines are actually reserved circuits within the service provider's network that connect geographically separated offices for private voice and/or data networking. Ethernet WAN - Ethernet WANs extend LAN access technology into the WAN. DSL - Business DSL is available in various formats. A popular choice is Symmetric Digital Subscriber Lines (SDSL) which is similar to the consumer version of DSL, but provides uploads and downloads at the same speeds. Satellite - Similar to small office and home office users, satellite service can provide a connection when a wired solution is not available.

What is the difference between a switch and a router?

Difference between a Ethernet hub, a switch, and a router. ... Ethernet hubs, switches, and routers are all devices that let you connect one or more computers to other computers, networked devices, or even other networks. Each has two or more connectors called ports into which you plug in the cables to make the connection.

Network Representations

End Devices Desktop computer Laptop IP Phone Wireless Tablet intermediary Devices wireless Router Lan Switch Router Multilayer Switch Firewall Appliance Network Media Wireless Media LAN Media WAN Media

What is a Switch?

Ensures data is sent between 2 computers to avoid data collisions by making a direct connection between the two devices.

Internet Access Technologies

Home users, teleworkers (remote workers), and small offices typically require a connection to an Internet Service Provider (ISP) to access the Internet. Connection options vary greatly between ISP and geographical location. popular choices include broadband cable, broadband digital subscriber line (DSL), wireless WANs, and mobile services. Organizations typically require access to other corporate sites and the Internet. Fast connections are required to support business services including IP phones, video conferencing, and data center storage. Business-class interconnections are usually provided by service providers (SP).

What is a bridge in computer networks?

In telecommunication networks, a bridge is a product that connects a local area network (LAN) to another local area network that uses the same protocol (for example, Ethernet or token ring).

How does a network switch work as compared to a hub?

In the most basic networks, devices are connected with hubs. But there's a limit to the amount of bandwidth users can share on a hub-based network. The more devices are added to the network, the longer it takes data to reach its destination. A switch avoids these and other limitations of hub networks.

Online Collaboration

Individuals want to connect to the network, not only for access to data applications, but also to collaborate with one another. Collaboration is defined as "the act of working with another or others on a joint project." Collaboration tools, like Cisco WebEx shown in the figure, give employees, students, teachers, customers, and partners a way to instantly connect, interact, and achieve their objectives. For businesses, collaboration is a critical and strategic priority that organizations are using to remain competitive. Collaboration is also a priority in education. Students need to collaborate to assist each other in learning, to develop team skills used in the work force, and to work together on team-based projects. Video Communication Video is being used for communications, collaboration, and entertainment. Video calls can be made to and from anywhere with an Internet connection. Video conferencing is a powerful tool for communicating with others at a distance, both locally and globally. Video is becoming a critical requirement for effective collaboration as organizations extend across geographic and cultural boundaries.

What else do Intermediary devices do?

Intermediary devices also use the destination end device address, in conjunction with information about the network interconnections, to determine the path that messages should take through the network.

What are intermediary network devices?

Intermediary devices are used to connect end devices to the network and can also be used to connect individual networks to form an internetwork Intermediary devices include: • Switches and wireless access points • Routers and modems • Firewalls End devices include: • Computers such as workstations, laptops, tablets, smartphones etc. • Servers such as file servers and web servers • Network Printers and scanners • VoIP devices• Anything else that you can put on a local network such as security cameras

What do Intermediary devices do?

Intermediary devices connect the individual end devices to the network and can connect multiple individual networks to form an internetwork. These intermediary devices provide connectivity and ensure that data flows across the network.

What is Intranet?

Intranet is a term often used to refer to a private connection of LANs and WANs that belongs to an organization, and is designed to be accessible only by the organization's members, employees, or others with authorization.

What is the purpose of a modem in a computer?

Modem stands for MOdulator/DEModulator. A modem converts digital signals generated by the computer into analog signals which can be transmitted over a telephone or cable line and transforms incoming analog signals into their digital equivalents.

Network devices and media

Network Interface Card - A NIC, or LAN adapter, provides the physical connection to the network at the PC or other end device . The media that are connecting the PC to the networking device, plug directly into the NIC. • Physical Port - A connector or outlet on a networking device where the media is connected to an end device or another networking device. • Interface - Specialized ports on a networking device that connect to individual networks. Because routers are used to interconnect networks, the ports on a router are referred to as network interfaces.

What is a topology?

Network topology is the layout of the connections (links, nodes, etc.) of a computer network. There are two main types of topology. Network topologies may be physical or logical. Physical topology means the physical design of a network including the devices, locations and cables. Logical topology is about how data is actually moved around in a network, not its physical design.

Technology Trends in the Home

Networking trends are not only affecting the way we communicate at work and at school, they are also changing just about every aspect of the home. The newest home trends include 'smart home technology'. Smart home technology is technology that is integrated into every-day appliances allowing them to interconnect with other devices, making them more 'smart' or automated. Use of an AI makes it possible such as Amazon Alexa or Apple's Siri. Example of smart house would be if you get the correct equipment you could ask Alexa to something such as saying Alexa lights off.

Do you have to have a modem and a router?

Once the modem is activated, just connect its network port to the WAN (internet) port of a modem and you have a "gateway." ... Or when you want to upgrade your broadband speed, you just need to upgrade the modem. What's more, most routers on the market have more settings and features than the router part of a combo device.

Powerline networking

Powerline networking is an emerging trend for home networking that uses existing electrical wiring to connect devices, as shown in the figure. The concept of "no new wires" means the ability to connect a device to the network wherever there is an electrical outlet. This saves the cost of installing data cables and without any additional cost to the electrical bill. Using the same wiring that delivers electricity, powerline networking sends information by sending data on certain frequencies. Using a standard powerline adapter, devices can connect to the LAN wherever there is an electrical outlet. Powerline networking is especially useful when wireless access points cannot be used or cannot reach all the devices in the home. Powerline networking is not designed to be a substitute for dedicated cabling in data networks. However, it is an alternative when data network cables or wireless communications are not a viable option.

What can a computer with server software do?

Provide services simultaneously to one or many clients. Additionally, a single computer can run multiple types of server software. In a home or small business, it may be necessary for one computer to act as a file server, a web server, and an email server.

what do routers do in a network?

Routers allow different networks to communicate. A router also connects networked computers to the Internet, so multiple users can share a connection.

how does a router work in a network?

Routing is the process of forwarding IP packets from one network to another. A router is a device that joins networks together and routes traffic between them. A router will have at least two network cards (NICs), one physically connected to one network and the other physically connected to another network.

what do Nic do in a network?

Short for Network Interface Card, the NIC is also referred to as an Ethernet card and network adapter. It is an expansion card that enables a computer to connect to a network; such as a home network, or the Internet using an Ethernet cable with an RJ-45 connector.

How does a network switch work as compared to a router?

Switches allow different devices on a network to communicate. Routers allow different networks to communicate. A router also connects networked computers to the Internet, so multiple users can share a connection. And a router acts as a dispatcher. It chooses the best route for information to travel, so that it's transmitted as efficiently as possible. Not sure which networking device you need? Talk to a local Cisco reseller who understands your specific requirements. Your reseller can design, install, and help you maintain your network. You'll get a secure, reliable, affordable network backed by Cisco and customized to meet your needs today, giving you a clear path to tomorrow.

what do switches do in a network?

Switches allow different devices on a network to communicate. Switches are a key component of many business networks, as they connect multiple PCs, printers, access points, phones, lights, servers, and other hardware. Switches allow you to send and receive information (such as email) and access shared resources in a smooth, efficient, highly secure, and transparent manner.

What is the internet?

The Internet is a worldwide collection of interconnected networks (internetworks or internet for short). WANs can connect through copper wires, fiber optic cables, and wireless transmissions. The Internet is not owned by any individual or group.

What is the function of a network interface card?

The NIC contains the electronic circuitry required to communicate using a wired connection (e.g., Ethernet) or a wireless connection (e.g., WiFi). A network interface card is also known as a network interface controller, network adapter, or Local Area Network (LAN) adapter.

What does a Client server Do?

The client-server model is a distributed application structure that partitions tasks or workloads between the providers of a resource or service, called servers, and service requesters, called clients.

How does a wireless modem work?

The main purpose of a router is to connect multiple networks and forward packets destined either for its own networks or other networks. A router is considered a layer-3 device because its primary forwarding decision is based on the information in the layer-3 IP packet, specifically the destination IP address.

Types of topology diagrams

There are two types of topology diagrams: • Physical topology diagrams - Identify the physical location of intermediary devices and cable installation. • Logical topology diagrams - Identify devices, ports, and addressing scheme.

What are the advantages of Peer to Pear Networking?

• Easy to setup • Less complexity • Lower cost since network devices and dedicated servers may not be required • Can be used for simple tasks such as transferring files and sharing printers

Types of networks

• Local Area Network (LAN) - A network infrastructure that provides access to users and end devices in a small geographical area, which is typically an enterprise, home, or small business network owned and managed by an individual or IT department. • Wide Area Network (WAN) - A network infrastructure that provides access to other networks over a wide geographical area, which is typically owned and managed by a telecommunications service provider.

Types of network media

• Metallic wires within cables - data is encoded into electrical impulses • Glass or plastic fibers (fiber optic cable) - data is encoded as pulses of light • Wireless transmission - data is encoded using wavelengths from the electromagnetic spectrum

Other types of networks

• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) - A network infrastructure that spans a physical area larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN (e.g., a city). MANs are typically operated by a single entity such as a large organization. • Wireless LAN (WLAN) - Similar to a LAN but wirelessly interconnects users and end points in a small geographical area. • Storage Area Network (SAN) - A network infrastructure designed to support file servers and provide data storage, retrieval, and replication.

What are the disadvantages of Peer to Pear Networking?

• No centralized administration • Not as secure • Not scalable • All devices may act as both clients and servers which can slow their performance

Specific features of WANs include:

• WANs interconnect LANs over wide geographical areas such as between cities, states, provinces, countries, or continents. • WANs are usually administered by multiple service providers. • WANs typically provide slower speed links between LANs.