AnSWERS!!! 7

1. Discuss the components required for successful communications.

Computer communications describes a process in which two or more computers or devices transfer data, instructions, and information. Successful communications requires a sending device that initiates a transmission instruction, a communications device that connects the sending device to a communications channel, a communications channel on which the data travels, a communications device that connects the communications channel to a receiving device, and a receiving device that accepts the transmission of data, instructions, or information.

2. Identify various sending and receiving devices.

A sending device initiates the transmission of data, instructions, and information while a receiving device accepts the items transmitted.

All types of computers and mobile devices serve as sending and receiving devices in a communications system. This includes mainframe computers, servers, desktop computers, notebook computers, Tablet PCs, smart phones, portable media players, and GPS receivers.

3. Describe uses of computer communications.

Computer and Communications networks are key infrastructures of the information society with high socio-economic value as they contribute to the correct operations of many critical services (from healthcare to finance and transportation).

4. List advantages of using a network.

• Speed. Sharing and transferring files within Networks are very rapid. Thus saving time, while maintaining the integrity of the files.
• Cost. Individually licensed copies of many popular software programs can be costly. Networkable versions are available at considerable savings.
• Security. Sensitive files and programs on a network are passwords protected or designated as "copy inhibit," so that you do not have to worry about illegal copying of programs.
• Centralized Software Management. Software can be loaded on one computer (the file server) eliminating that need to spend time and energy installing updates and tracking files on independent computers throughout the building.
• Resource Sharing. Resource such as, printer, fax machines and modems can be shared.
• Electronic Mail. E-mail aids in personal and professional communication Electronic mail on a LAN can enable staff to communicate within the building having to leave their desk.
• Flexible Access. Access their files from computers throughout the firm.
• Workgroup Computing. Workgroup software (such as Microsoft BackOffice) allows many users to work on a document or project concurrently.

5. Differentiate among client/server, peer-to-peer, and P2P networks.

On a client/server network, one or more computers acts as a server, sometimes called a host computer, which controls access to network resources and provides a centralized storage area, while the other computers on the network are clients that rely on the server for resources.

6. Describe the various network communications standards.

 Network communication standards are certain rules and specifications framed by standard organizations for manufacturing network hardware and developing network software.

A network standard defines guidelines that specify the way computers access a medium, the type(s) of medium, the speeds on different types of networks, and the type of physical cable or wireless technology used.

7. Explain the purpose of communications software.

• Communications software helps users establish a connection to another computer or network; manages the transmission of data, instructions, and information; and provides an interface for users to communicate with one another.

8. Describe various types of lines for communications over the telephone network.

The telephone network uses dial-up lines or dedicated lines.

·         A dial-up line is a temporary connection that uses one or more analog telephone lines for communications.

·         A dedicated line is an always-on connection established between two communications devices.

9. Describe commonly used communications devices.

• A communications device is hardware capable of transmitting data between a sending device and a receiving device.

10. Discuss different ways to set up a home network.

·         With computers getting cheaper and cheaper these days, it is not uncommon for a household to have more than one PC

·         A home network connects multiple computers and devices in a home. An Ethernet Anetwork connects each computer to a hub with a physical cable.

11. Identify various physical and wireless transmission media.

Transmission media consist of materials or substances capable of carrying one or more signals.

• Physical transmission media use tangible materials to send communications signals. Twisted-pair cable consists of one or more twisted-pair wires bundled together. Coaxial cable consists of a single copper wire surrounded by at least three layers: an insulating material, a woven or braided metal, and a plastic outer coating. Fiber-optic cable consists of thin strands of glass or plastic that use light to transmit signals.
• Wireless transmission media send communications signals through the air or space. Infrared (IR) sends signals using infrared light waves.