Infrastructure & Network Design Flashcards
9 cards from real ITA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 9 Infrastructure & Network Design flashcards as text
What is a key component of network infrastructure?
Answer: Router
A router is a fundamental component of network infrastructure that directs data packets between different computer networks. It acts as a traffic controller, determining the best path for information to travel across networks, including the internet. Without routers, devices on separate networks would be unable to communicate with each other.
Which topology uses a central hub to connect all nodes?
Answer: Star
In a star topology, all network devices (nodes) are individually connected to a central hub, switch, or server. This central device acts as a conduit for all data traffic between the nodes. If one node fails, it does not affect the rest of the network, but if the central device fails, the entire network goes down.
What does a firewall do in network design?
Answer: Filters traffic based on security rules
A firewall is a network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. Its primary function is to establish a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks, like the internet. By filtering traffic, it protects against unauthorized access and malicious activities.
Which protocol assigns IP addresses dynamically?
Answer: DHCP
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a network management protocol used on Internet Protocol (IP) networks for dynamically assigning IP addresses and other communication parameters to devices connected to the network. This automation simplifies network administration by eliminating the need for manual IP configuration for each device, ensuring efficient network setup and management.
What is the purpose of a VLAN?
Answer: Segment network traffic logically
A VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) allows network administrators to logically segment a single physical network into multiple broadcast domains. This means devices on different VLANs cannot communicate directly without a router, even if they are connected to the same physical switch. VLANs improve network performance, security, and manageability by isolating traffic and reducing broadcast domains.
What is the function of a switch in a network?
Answer: Connects devices in a local area network
A network switch is a device that connects multiple devices, such as computers, printers, and servers, within a local area network (LAN). It operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model and forwards data frames only to the specific device for which they are intended. This intelligent forwarding improves network efficiency and performance compared to a hub.
What type of cable is commonly used in Ethernet networks?
Answer: Twisted pair
Twisted pair cable, particularly unshielded twisted pair (UTP), is the most common type of cabling used for wired Ethernet networks. It consists of pairs of insulated wires twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference and crosstalk. This type of cable is cost-effective and supports various Ethernet standards, making it ideal for connecting devices in local area networks.
Why is redundancy important in network infrastructure?
Answer: Maintains service during failures
Redundancy in network infrastructure involves duplicating critical components or paths to ensure that if one component fails, another can take over seamlessly. This design principle is crucial for maintaining high availability and preventing service disruptions. It minimizes downtime and ensures continuous operation, which is vital for business continuity and reliable service delivery.
What does DNS do in a network?
Answer: Resolves domain names to IP addresses
DNS (Domain Name System) is a hierarchical and decentralized naming system for computers, services, or any resource connected to the Internet or a private network. Its primary function is to translate human-readable domain names (like www.example.com) into numerical IP addresses (like 192.0.2.1) that computers use to identify each other on a network. This translation is essential for web browsing and other internet services.