2.3 Network Services

Question 1

What does DNS stand for?

Answer 1

Domain Name System

DNS converts fully qualified domain names into IP addresses and can perform reverse lookups.

Question 2

What is the purpose of DHCP?

Answer 2

Automatically assigns IP addresses and configuration settings to devices

DHCP is commonly used in enterprises for redundancy.

Question 3

Name common file sharing protocols.

Answer 3

• SMB (Server Message Block)
• AFP (Apple Filing Protocol)

These protocols are often hidden by the operating system, presenting a user-friendly interface.

Question 4

How do print servers function?

Answer 4

Manage receiving, queuing, and printing of print jobs

They can be a separate computer or built into the printer itself.

Question 5

What is the importance of email servers?

Answer 5

Send and receive email messages

Email servers can be cloud-based or local and require careful planning for high uptime.

Question 6

What is Syslog?

Answer 6

A protocol for consolidating log files from network devices

A SIEM collects these logs for correlation across systems.

Question 7

What protocols do web servers use?

Answer 7

• HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol)
• HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure)

Web servers store files in HTML for browsers to interpret.

Question 8

Explain authentication servers and AAA.

Answer 8

Check usernames and passwords for network access

AAA stands for Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting.

Question 9

How do database servers organize information?

Answer 9

Store information in database tables linked to form a relational database

SQL is the standard language used for this.

Question 10

What is NTP?

Answer 10

Network Time Protocol

NTP ensures accurate time synchronization across computers.

Question 11

What is a spam gateway?

Answer 11

Service that evaluates incoming email messages to filter spam

This process may not be 100% accurate, requiring user checks.

Question 12

What is an all-in-one security appliance?

Answer 12

Combines multiple security functions into a single device

Functions can include URL filtering, malware inspection, and firewall capabilities.

Question 13

How do load balancers improve service availability?

Answer 13

Distribute incoming client requests across multiple servers

They ensure continuous service by removing failed servers from rotation.

Question 14

What is the function of a proxy server?

Answer 14

Acts as an intermediary for client requests

Provides security, access control, caching, and content scanning.

Question 15

What is SCADA / ICS?

Answer 15

Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition / Industrial Control System

Used to control and manage industrial equipment remotely.

Question 16

What are legacy systems?

Answer 16

Older technology that continues to function

Their management is crucial despite their age.

Question 17

Describe embedded systems.

Answer 17

Purpose-built devices with limited user access to the OS

Examples include fire alarm systems and time clocks.

Question 18

What are IoT devices?

Answer 18

Internet-connected appliances and smart devices

Security concerns arise from manufacturers lacking expertise in network connectivity.