Network Protocols

Question 1

Router

Answer 1

Connects multiple networks and routes packets between them.

Directs network traffic based on destination address

Security features such as firewall and NAT.

Operates on network layer [layer 3]

Question 2

Switch

Answer 2

Connects multiple devices on a LAN, forward data packets between them.

Directs network traffic based on device’s MAC address.

Reduces network congestion.

Connect devices such as computers,printers and servers on network.

Operates on data link layer [ layer 2]

Question 3

MAC address

Answer 3

unique identifier assigned to a NIC to ensure data is sent to the correct device on a network.

Used on data link layer.

In a 48-bit number, Divided in 6 parts by colons.

Question 4

MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output)

Answer 4

MIMO (Multiple Input, Multiple Output) = Uses multiple antennas to boost performance.

Sends and receives multiple signals at once

Faster, longer range, more reliable

Reduces interference

Key tech in modern Wi-Fi for faster, more efficient connections.

Think: “MIMO = More antennas, more speed, more reliability.”

Question 5

SSID (Service Set Identifier)

Answer 5

SSID (Service Set Identifier) = The name of a Wi-Fi network.

Helps devices identify and connect to right network.

Broadcasted by the router.

Not a security feature.

One router can have multiple SSIDs (e.g., 2.4GHz & 5GHz).

Think: “SSID = Wi-Fi name tag – helps connect, not protect.”

Question 6

CSMA/CD

Answer 6

Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection

When devices transmit data at the same time, a collision occurs, data becomes corrupted.

avoids data collisions by detecting when they happen and making devices wait before retransmitting.

Question 7

Describe the function of STP within a network.

Answer 7

**The Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) **
stops network loops by keeping one main path active and uses backup paths if the main path fails.

Question 8

Describe the function of NTP.

Answer 8

Network Time Protocol (NTP) makes sure all computers and devices have the same correct time.

helps with planning and keeps records accurate on different systems.

Question 9

WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy)

Answer 9

Old Wi-Fi security using RC4 encryption.

Uses 64-bit or 128-bit keys.

Now outdated and insecure due to known vulnerabilities.

Think: “WEP = Weak, old protection – not safe today.”

Question 10

Modem: Modulation - Demodulation

Answer 10

A modem - a device that helps send data over communication lines.

Modulation turns digital data into signals that can travel over cables

Demodulation changes the signals back into digital data.

Types: DSL, cable, fiber-optic modems.

Use: Connects devices to the internet through ISPs.

Question 11

IP Address

Answer 11

numerical label such as 192.0.2.1 assigned to a device connected to a network to enable communication with other devices.

Question 12

NIC

Answer 12

Network Interface Card

connects a computer to a network by converting digital data to network signals and vice versa.

An add-on card integrated in motherboard.

Question 13

Hub

Answer 13

Connects multiple devices on LAN.

Receives data packets from one device, broadcast them to all other device on networks.

Cause network congestion and slow data transfer speed.

Now replaced by switch.

Question 14

Bridge

Answer 14

Connects 2 LANs and forward packets between these 2 LANs.

Reduces network congestion.

Filters network traffic and forward necessary data packets.

Used to connect LAN in different buildings or areas.

Question 15

Repeater

Answer 15

Amplifies and regenerates weak signal to extend range of network.

Operates at physical layer of network.

Used in wireless or wired network where signals need to be transmitted over long distance.