Chapter 5 Learning Objectives

SECTION A

After reading Section A, you should be able to:

• provide a general definition of a “communications network”
• diagram Claude Shannon’s communications system model
• discuss the difference between digital and analog communications equipment
• list seven links that can be used by computer networks to carry data
• describe how a satellite is used as a communications link
• discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the following data transmission options: fiber-optic cable, radio waves, microwaves, radio waves, and lasers
• define the term “bandwidth”
• describe the role of each of the following in a LAN: node, hub, workstation, server, router, and repeater
• diagram three typical network topologies
• explain the difference between circuit switching and packet switching technology
• describe the communications protocols used to transmit data between devices
• distinguish between different classifications of networks including intranets, extranets, Ethernets, LANs, MANs, WANs, Token Rings, FDDIs, ATMs, client/server, and peer-to-peer

SECTION B

After reading Section B, you should be able to:

• provide a brief history of the Internet
• describe the types of network devices that are part of an ISP
• discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the Internet utilities Ping and Traceroute
• explain the function of the following Internet protocols: TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP, SMTP, POP, and SSL
• differentiate between dynamic, permanent, and private IP addresses
• explain the relationship between an IP address and a domain name
• give an example of a domain name in both a URL and in an e-mail address
• outline the three possible responses that can be made by your designated domain server when you enter a domain name or URL
• list the steps that are necessary to obtain a domain name
• describe the use of top-level domains such as biz, com, edu, gov, info, int, mil, net, and org

SECTION C

After reading Section C, you should be able to:

• explain the function of a modem
• describe the components necessary for setting up a cable modem connection
• discuss the bandwidth and security issues that are associated with a CATV connection
• list ways of securing a computer with an always-on connection
• describe how personal firewall software helps to keep your PC secure
• compare and contrast different high-speed Internet access options including DSL, ISDN, T1, and T3
• describe the strengths and weaknesses of wireless Internet access options such as DSS and cellular telephones
• provide a list of factors to be considered when choosing an Internet connection service

SECTION D

After reading Section D, you should be able to:

• illustrate the advantages of a LAN
• describe a typical LAN configuration
• compare and contrast different home network technologies including: Home PNA, Home PLA, Ethernet, and wireless
• explain the importance of a Mac address
• describe the types of software licenses designed for network use
• define the term “drive mapping”
• list three measures that can be employed to secure a home network
• explain how network address translation (NAT) works to protect a LAN