chapter 6

Networks

 

  I summarized the information I have learned from this chapter  as follow:

1.     Define the term computer network, and compare and contrast the two major types of networks.

A computer network is a system that connects computers and other devices via communications media so that data and information can be transmitted among them.

The two major types of networks:

A local area network connects two or more devices in a limited geographical region so that every device on the network can communicate with every other device.

A wide area networks are networks that cover large geographic area.

2.     Compare and contrast the two major signals:

Analog Signals are continuous waves that transmit information by altering the characteristics of the waves.

Digital Signals are discrete pulses that are either on or off, representing series of bits (0s and 1s).

3.     Describe the differences among the three types of wireline communications media.

Twisted-pair wire, the most prevalent form of communications wiring, consists of stands of copper wire twisted in pairs.

Coaxial cable consists of insulated copper wire.

Fiber-optic cables consist of thousands of very thin filaments of glass fibers that transmit information via light pulses generated b lasers.

4.     Differentiate between the Internet and the World Wide Web.

The internet is a global network of computer networks, using a common communication, TCP/IP.

Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is a file transfer protocol that can send large files of information across sometimes unreliable networks with assurance that the data will arrive uncorrupted.

The World Wide Web (WWW) is a system that stores, retrieves, formats, and displays information accessible through a browser.

5.  Identify six major categories of network applications.

•  Discovery allows users to browse and search data sources, in all topic areas, on the Web. Discovery tools include search engines, directories, and portals.
• Networks provide fast, inexpensive communications, via e-mail, call centers, chat rooms, voice communications, and blogs.
• Collaboration refers to efforts of two or more entities (individuals, teams, groups, or organizations) who work together to accomplish certain tasks.
• E-Learning refers to learning supported by the Web. Distance learning (DL) refers to any learning situation in which teachers and students do not meet face-to-face.
• Virtual universities are online universities in which students take classes from home or at an off-site location, via the internet.
• Telecommuting is the process where knowledge workers are able to work anywhere and anytime.