What is a network type?
A categorization of the area over which the parts of the network are managed
Understanding network types is essential for installation and support procedures.
What is a LAN (Local Area Network)?
Common Ethernet speeds include 100BASE-T, 1000BASE-T, and 10GBASE-T.
What does WAN stand for?
Wide Area Network
Connects multiple LANs over long distances, using ISP infrastructure.
What is a WLAN?
Wireless Local Area Network
A wireless version of a LAN that uses Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11).
What is a PAN?
Personal Area Network
Very short range, typically involving Bluetooth devices.
What does MAN stand for?
Metropolitan Area Network
Covers a city or metro area, larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN.
What is a SAN?
Storage Area Network
A dedicated network just for storage, used by servers.
What is a SOHO Network?
Common in home networks, small offices, and startups.
What is an Enterprise Network?
Built for scalability, reliability, and security.
What is a Server?
A computer that provides services or resources
Examples include file servers, web servers, email servers, and database servers.
What is a Client?
A computer used by end users that requests services from servers
Examples include desktop PCs, laptops, and phones.
What is a Datacenter?
An entire facility dedicated to servers
Built specifically to run critical systems 24/7.
What is a NIC (Network Interface Card)?
The hardware that lets your computer connect to a network
Most modern PCs have one built into the motherboard.
What does PoE stand for?
Power Over Ethernet
Sends both data and electrical power over a single Ethernet cable.
What is an Unmanaged Switch?
Common in small networks, typically 4-8 ports.
What is a Managed Switch?
Typically rack-mounted and used in larger workgroups.
What is the maximum recommended length for a UTP cable?
100 meters (328 ft)
Signal weakens over distance (attenuation).
What is the purpose of a Patch Panel?
Used in office structured cabling.
What is the function of a Router?
Connects multiple networks together
Responsible for forwarding data between networks.
What is the difference between Switches and Hubs?
Switches use intelligent forwarding (MAC-based)
Better performance and less network congestion than hubs.
What is the IEEE 802.3af standard?
PoE / Type 1, up to 15.4 W max
Used for basic devices like VoIP phones.
What type of cable transfers data using light?
Fiber optic cable
Used for faster and longer distance data transmission.
What is the OUI in a MAC address?
First 24 bits that identify the manufacturer
Assigned by IEEE.
What is the maximum recommended distance for most Ethernet over copper?
100 m (328 ft)
This distance is crucial for maintaining signal integrity in Ethernet connections.