Green Bridge Learning Resource For Networking

Overview

Networking is a fundamental aspect of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) that entails the interconnection of multiple devices for the purpose of sharing resources and information. In the realm of computer networks, various types exist, each serving different scales and purposes. These include Personal Area Networks (PANs), Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs), Millimeter Area Networks (Milne), Extinct Networks, and the ubiquitous Internet.

Personal Area Networks (PANs) are typically the smallest in scale, encompassing devices within an individual's workspace, such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets. On the other end of the spectrum, Wide Area Networks (WANs) span large geographical areas, connecting disparate locations like branch offices across different cities.

The topology of a network refers to its physical or logical layout, with common types being Star, Bus, and Ring configurations. In a Star topology, devices are connected to a central hub or switch, enabling efficient data transmission. Conversely, Bus topology features a single communication line shared by all devices, whereas a Ring topology involves devices forming a closed loop for data transfer.

Network devices play pivotal roles in ensuring seamless connectivity and data exchange within networks. Hubs serve as central connection points for devices, while Modems facilitate internet access via phone or cable lines. Switches direct data between devices within a network, ensuring efficient communication paths.

Routers guide data packets between different networks, determining the optimal path for information exchange. Gateways link disparate networks with varying protocols, facilitating seamless communication. Additionally, Repeaters amplify and retransmit signals to extend network coverage, enhancing connectivity.

Furthermore, Access Points Interface (APIs) provide access to network services, enabling the interaction of software components with networks. Network Interface Cards (NICs) are hardware components that allow devices to connect to networks, enabling data transmission.

Objectives

List and Define Various Types of Networks
Define Computer Network
Define and Explain the Use of Network Devices
Explain Differences in Basic Network Topologies

Lesson Note

Not Available

Lesson Evaluation

Congratulations on completing the lesson on Networking. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.

You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.

Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.

Define a Computer Network. A. A collection of interconnected computers and devices that can communicate with each other B. A single computer connected to the internet C. An isolated computer system with no connectivity D. A computer program for network management Answer: A. A collection of interconnected computers and devices that can communicate with each other
What does LAN stand for? A. Large Area Network B. Local Area Network C. Long-range Area Network D. Linked Access Network Answer: B. Local Area Network
What is the purpose of a Router in a network? A. To connect devices within a LAN B. To amplify network signals C. To filter and forward data packets between networks D. To provide secure access to the internet Answer: C. To filter and forward data packets between networks
Which network topology connects all devices to a central hub? A. Star B. Bus C. Ring D. Mesh Answer: A. Star
What is the function of a Hub in a network? A. It connects different LANs together B. It manages and stores network data C. It monitors network traffic D. It broadcasts data to all connected devices Answer: D. It broadcasts data to all connected devices

Recommended Books

	Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach Subtitle Building Networks in a Modern World Publisher Pearson Year 2019 ISBN 978-0133594140
	Computer Networks Subtitle An Open Source Approach Publisher Lulu Press Year 2011 ISBN 978-0557008435

Past Questions

Wondering what past questions for this topic looks like? Here are a number of questions about Networking from previous years

WAEC SSCE - Computer Studies - 2022 (Click to take full assessment)

Question 1 Report

2(a) Use appropriate labelled diagrams to illustrate the following network topologies.
i Startopology (ii) bustopology (iii) ring topology.

(b) State one advantage of: i Star topology ii Bus topology.

Answer

(a) i. Star topology: In a star topology, all the devices are connected to a central device called a hub or switch. The hub acts as a central point of communication and manages the flow of data between devices. Here is a labeled diagram of a star topology: ``` Device 1 Device 2 Device 3 | | | +-------------+-------------+ Hub | CPU ``` ii. Bus topology: In a bus topology, all the devices are connected to a single cable called a bus. The data transmitted by one device is received by all the devices on the network. Here is a labeled diagram of a bus topology: ``` Device 1 | Device 2 | Device 3 | +-------+ | Bus | +-------+ | CPU ``` iii. Ring topology: In a ring topology, all the devices are connected to form a closed loop. Data is transmitted in one direction around the ring, and each device acts as a repeater to amplify the signal and pass it on to the next device. Here is a labeled diagram of a ring topology: ``` +-----------+ | Device 1 | +-----------+ | +-----------+ | Device 2 | +-----------+ | +-----------+ | Device 3 | +-----------+ | +-----------+ | CPU | +-----------+ ``` (b) i. Advantage of Star topology: One advantage of a star topology is that it is easy to install and maintain. If a device fails or needs to be added, it can be easily replaced or added without affecting the rest of the network. Additionally, the hub or switch can be used to monitor and manage the network traffic, making it easier to troubleshoot any issues. ii. Advantage of Bus topology: One advantage of a bus topology is that it is relatively inexpensive to install and maintain. Since all the devices are connected to a single cable, it requires less cable and equipment than other topologies. Additionally, the bus topology is scalable, meaning new devices can be added to the network without significant disruption. (c) i. Disadvantage of Bus topology: One disadvantage of a bus topology is that it is vulnerable to network congestion and collisions. Since all the devices share a single communication channel, if multiple devices try to transmit data simultaneously, collisions can occur, causing delays and reducing the network performance. Additionally, if the bus cable fails, the entire network can be affected. ii. Disadvantage of Ring topology: One disadvantage of a ring topology is that it is also vulnerable to network congestion and failures. If a device or cable fails, the entire network can be disrupted. Additionally, adding or removing devices from a ring topology can be challenging and require significant network reconfiguration.

Answer Details

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