Introduction to computer networks

Hawlader

Oishi

1. Definitions
Modem- is a device or program that enables a computer to transmit data over, for
example, telephone or cable lines.
Network Infrared Card (NIC)- is a circuit board or card that is installed in a computer so
that it can be connected to a network.
Firewall- a part of a computer system or network that is designed to block unauthorized
access while allowing for outward communication.
Hub- s a common connection point for devices in a network. Hubs are commonly used
to connect segments of a LAN. A hub contains multiple ports.
Network router- is a networking device that forwards data packets between computer
networks. Routers perform the traffic directing functions on the Internet
Server - are used to manage network resources, any device that runs server software.
WIFI- wireless networking technology that uses radio waves to provide wireless highspeed Internet and network connections.
Bluetooth - simplifies communications and data synchronization among Internet devices
and between devices and the Internet using short-range radio technology/ wireless
technology
Internet Hotspots- physical location where people may obtain Internet access, typically
using Wi-Fi technology.
Network Address- a logical or physical address that distinguishes a node or device over
telecommunications network. It is a numeric/symbolic number or address that is
assigned to any device that seeks access to or is part of a network
Bandwidth- is the bit-rate of available or consumed information capacity expressed
typically in metric multiples of bits per second
Switches- is a device that channels incoming data from any of multiple input ports to the
specific output port that will take the data toward its intended destination

Workstations- is a special computer designed for technical or scientific applications

Fiberoptics- technology that uses glass (or plastic) threads (fibers) to transmit data
RJ-45 connector- commonly used for Ethernet networking The "RJ" stands for
"registered jack," and the "45"refers to the number of the interface standard. Each
RJ45 connector has eight pins, which means an RJ45 cable contains eight separate
wires
Ethernet card- one kind of network adapter used to connect to a network
Network topology- is the pattern in which nodes are connected to a local area network
or other network via links. There are four principal topologies used in LANs: bus, ring,
star and mesh
IP Address- is a numerical label assigned to each device participating in a computer
network
2. Computer Networks
Advantages

Disadvantages

It enhances communication and

availability of information.

It poses security difficulties

It increases storage capacity

It allows for more computer viruses and

malware

Files can easily be shared between users

Purchasing the network cabling and file

servers can be expensive

3. Local Area Network (LAN)

a computer network that links devices within a building or group of adjacent buildings.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Low cost

The safety and security is not high

Easy configuration

Poor scalability

Speed

if a machine is not turned on, the other

machines can not navigate to the shared
files

Wide Area Network (WAN)

a computer network in which the computers connected may be far apart, generally having a
radius of half a mile or more.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Everyone on the network can use the same data

Low bandwidth, easy to lose connection

Share information/files over a larger area

Costs for equipment and technology is

very expensive

-Messages can be sent very quickly to anyone

else on the network

Information may not meet local needs or interests