This topology is the arrangement of devices on a network and how they communicate with one another. It describes how data moves across the network and which devices are involved in any point to point communication.
What is Logical Topology?
100
A network device that connects network segments without tracking which computer is connected to each port. Considered a "dumb" device.
What is Hub?
100
This type of Ethernet cable connects most devices to each other. Both ends of the cable are wired in the same way.
What is Patch Cable?
100
A 32-bit software assigned address that identifies a computer on a network. Can be set manually or automatically through DHCP.
What is IP Address?
100
Also called a "network name". This identifier is usually broadcast across the local area to allow devices to select and connect to the wireless network.
What is SSID?
200
This topology is a wiring diagram that shows the real world location of cables and devices. It is useful when trying to locate a particular device in a room.
What is Physical Topology?
200
A network device that connects network segments and tracks which computer is connected to each port. Considered a "smart" device.
What is Switch?
200
This type of Ethernet cable can be used to connect two computers directly to each other. One end of the cable has some wires switched.
What is Crossover Cable?
200
A unique hardware-assigned address that is specific to that physical device. Cannot be changed.
What is MAC Address?
200
This is the radio frequency range used by a wireless network. It allows many different networks to use the same 2.4GHz or 5GHz bands by splitting it up into 22MHz ranges.
What is Channel?
300
This type of logical topology consists of many devices "daisy-chained" together.
What is Bus?
300
A hardware component installed in a computer that gives the user access to a network. Also known as a "NIC".
What is Network Adapter?
300
This type of shielded cable is used to deliver "cable" TV and Internet signals to a set top box or cable modem.
What is Coaxial?
300
A 32-bit string of 1s then 0s. When compared to an IP Address, it separates out the network bits (1s) from the host bits (0s).
What is Subnet Mask?
300
This is the current encryption standard for non-enterprise network security.
What is WPA2?
400
This logical topology consists of all devices being connected to one central device.
What is Star?
400
A networking device that separates networks, assigns IP addresses, and acts as a "default gateway".
What is Router?
400
This type of Ethernet cable is shielded from electromagnetic interference. It is used in areas of dense cabling and high EMI. Abbreviated: "STP".
What is Shielded Twisted Pair?
400
Resolves a domain name or URL to an IP Address. When you type "www.google.com" in a web browser, this is the service that translates that text into an IP Address.
What is DNS?
400
An enterprise network security system that utilizes a client/server interface for authenticating users trying to connect to the network.
What is RADIUS?
500
This topology is a combination of two other topologies. See diagram.
What is Star Bus?
500
A networking device that can extend the range of a wireless network by acting like a repeater for the signal.
What is Access Point?
500
This type of Ethernet cable is not shielded from electromagnetic interference, but is one of the most common types of cable due to its cheap cost. Abbreviated UTP.
What is Unshielded Twisted Pair?
500
Enables the ability to translate private IP Addresses to a public IP Address. This allows multiple computers on a private network to communicate with the outside world using only one public IP Address.
What is NAT?
500
Since 2009, this has been the current standard for WiFi network type. Often referred to as "wireless n"