Networking Fundamentals Flashcards

What does LAN stand for?

Answer: Local Area Network

LAN stands for Local Area Network, which is a computer network that interconnects computers within a limited area such as a residence, school, laboratory, university campus, or office building. It allows devices to share resources and communicate with each other efficiently over short distances.

What device connects multiple networks together?

Answer: Router

A router is a networking device that connects multiple distinct networks, such as a local area network (LAN) to the internet (a wide area network, WAN). Its primary function is to forward data packets between these networks, making intelligent decisions about the best path for data to travel. Switches connect devices within a single network, while routers connect different networks together.

What is the function of a switch?

Answer: Forward data to devices

A network switch operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model and is designed to efficiently forward data frames to specific devices within the same local area network (LAN). Unlike a hub, which broadcasts data to all connected devices, a switch learns the MAC addresses of connected devices and sends data only to the intended recipient. This targeted forwarding improves network performance and reduces unnecessary traffic.

What type of cable is commonly used in Ethernet networks?

Answer: Twisted pair

Twisted pair cable, specifically unshielded twisted pair (UTP) and shielded twisted pair (STP), is the most common type of cabling used in modern Ethernet networks. It consists of pairs of insulated wires twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference and crosstalk. This design allows for reliable data transmission over short to medium distances, making it ideal for connecting computers and network devices within buildings.

Which model has 7 layers of networking?

Answer: OSI model

The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model is a conceptual framework that standardizes the functions of a telecommunication or computing system into seven distinct layers. Each layer performs specific tasks, from the physical transmission of data to application-level services. This layered approach helps in understanding and designing network architectures.

What is the purpose of the MAC address?

Answer: Device identification

A MAC (Media Access Control) address is a unique identifier assigned to network interfaces for communications within a network segment. It serves as a physical address that uniquely identifies a device on a local network, allowing switches to correctly forward data frames to the intended recipient. This address is hardcoded into the network interface card (NIC) by the manufacturer.

What is a protocol?

Answer: Set of rules

In networking, a protocol is a formal set of rules, conventions, and data formats that govern how devices communicate with each other. Protocols define the procedures for initiating, maintaining, and terminating a connection, as well as how data is formatted and exchanged. Examples include TCP, IP, HTTP, and FTP, all of which ensure orderly and understandable communication across networks.

Which layer of the OSI model is responsible for routing?

Answer: Network layer

The Network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model is responsible for logical addressing and routing data packets across different networks. It determines the best path for data to travel from the source to the destination, using IP addresses for logical identification. Routers operate at this layer to connect disparate networks and forward packets between them.

What is the purpose of DNS?

Answer: Translates domain names

DNS (Domain Name System) acts like a phonebook for the internet, translating human-readable domain names (e.g., google.com) into machine-readable IP addresses (e.g., 172.217.160.142). This translation is essential for web browsers and other applications to locate and connect to internet resources. Without DNS, users would have to remember complex numerical IP addresses to access websites.