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What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?
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A LAN is a group of computers and devices connected in a single geographical location, like a building or campus, typically managed by the organization that uses it. Devices are connected via cables and switches.
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What distance typically defines a LAN?
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LANs usually cover a distance within 1 or 2 kilometers (about 1 mile).
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What are the key features of a LAN?
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(a) Covers a small area (like a building or nearby buildings). (b) Devices are connected through cables and switches. (c) Typically owned and managed by the organization.
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What is the most common Ethernet standard used for LANs today?
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1000BASE-T (Gigabit Ethernet), which operates at 1 Gbps over copper twisted pair cabling.
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How does Fiber Optic Cabling differ from Copper Cabling?
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Copper Cabling uses electrical signals for data transmission, while Fiber Optic Cabling uses pulses of light, offering higher speeds and longer distances.
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What is a Wireless LAN (WLAN)?
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A WLAN uses radio waves and antennas to transmit data wirelessly, often based on IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi) standards.
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What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?
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A WAN connects multiple LANs across large geographic distances, such as cities or countries. The Internet is an example of a WAN.
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How do most organizations establish a WAN connection?
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Organizations lease cabling and services from Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to connect LANs at different locations.
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What is a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)?
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A MAN connects multiple networks within a city or urban area. It is larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN.
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What is a SOHO (Small Office/Home Office) network?
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A SOHO network is designed for small businesses or home offices. It typically uses a single networking device (SOHO router) for LAN and Internet connectivity.
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What are the key features of a SOHO router?
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(a) Provides Internet access to connected devices. (b) Manages LAN traffic. (c) May include basic firewall security.
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How do Enterprise Networks differ from SOHO Networks?
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Enterprise networks use separate, dedicated devices (e.g., routers, switches, firewalls) for each network function, supporting more clients and offering greater reliability.
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What are the key components of an enterprise network?
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(a) Client devices (workstations, laptops, printers). (b) Workgroup switches, core switches, and distribution switches. (c) Routers and firewalls. (d) Protected subnets for Internet traffic filtering.
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What is a datacenter?
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A datacenter is a facility designed to house servers and networking equipment, offering high availability, dedicated power, climate control, and physical security.
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What is the purpose of a Storage Area Network (SAN)?
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A SAN provides a dedicated, flexible pool of storage that can be used by multiple servers, separate from the main network. It improves storage management and reliability.
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What technologies are commonly used in SANs?
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(a) Fiber Channel for high-speed connections. (b) Internet SCSI (iSCSI) for accessing SANs over IP-based networks.
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What is a Personal Area Network (PAN)?
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A PAN connects devices over a short range, typically a few meters, allowing data sharing between devices like PCs, mobile phones, and wearables.
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What are some common uses of PANs?
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(a) Data sharing between mobile devices and PCs. (b) Connecting peripherals like printers, headsets, and speakers.
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How is the growth of PANs related to the Internet of Things (IoT)?
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As more everyday objects and appliances become network-enabled through IoT, the use of PANs will expand to connect these devices wirelessly.