Networks Worksheet 1:

Network Topology, Hardware and Software 1

Question 1

Describe a computer network that you are familiar with. Provide an illustration of the network topology.

Question 2

What are the benefits of using a computer network?

Question 3

What is the difference between a LAN and a WAN? Give an example of each.

Question 4

The two main strategies for connecting computers are:

· Client/Server

· Peer-to-Peer

a) Briefly describe each strategy.

b) Draw a diagram to represent each strategy.

Question 5

The common network topologies used are ‘Star’, ‘Bus’ and ‘Ring’.

a) Describe the main features of each topology.

b) Draw a diagram to represent each topology.

c) Outline the advantages and disadvantages of each topology.

Question 6

There are many types of servers that can be connected to a network. Describe the purpose of each of the following:

· File Server

· Print Server

· Application Server


Question 7

Computers connected to a network are required to have a network interface card (NIC). What is the purpose of a NIC?

Question 8

The following transmission media can be used to enable computers to communicate with each other.

· Twisted pair cable (shielded and unshielded)

· Coaxial cable

· Fibre optic

Describe each type of transmission media and provide an example of the situation in which it would best be used.

Question 9

In the area of data transmission, what do the following terms mean?

· Bandwidth

· Baseband

· Broadband

· Simplex

· Half-duplex

· Duplex

Question 10

What is the function of the following pieces of network hardware commonly used in LAN’s?

· Hub

· Repeater

· Router

· Bridge

· Gateway

· Switch

Question 11

What is the purpose of a network operating system (NOS)?


Question 12

What are the most appropriate network operating systems for client/server and peer-to-peer networks?

Question 13

What are network protocols and why are they necessary?

Question 14

The following protocols are commonly used:

· TCP/IP

· SMTP

· HTTP

· FTP

a) To what does each protocol relate?

b) Provide an example of the implementation of each protocol.