Firmware upgrades - Firmware is read-only memory software on your router. As bugs and other viruses
continue being developed, manufacturers of the router come up with patches. It is important to update
your firmware so that you can keep your internet connection safe
Network Adapter - device that enables the node to communicate with the network using a common
data language or protocol
Network Interface Card (NIC) - Expansion card that enables a computer to connect to other computers
or a cable modem to facilitate a high-speed Interface, Internet connection
Broadband Modem - Broadband connection requires a modem, which connects your network to the
internet. The type of modem you
have depends on your own broadband service
Network - group of two or more nodes that are configured to share information and resources such as
printers, files, and databases
Client-Server Network Software - nodes do not communicate with each other but instead through a
centralized server called the NOS that handles
requests for information, internet access, and the use of peripheral nodes
P2P Network Software - nodes that support P2P networks (Windows, Linux, & OS X) where they all
communicate with each other
Packets - data that is sent in bundles through a network; for computers to communicate, they must flow
between the network and the nodes
, Router - device that transfers packets of data between 2+ networks (i.e. in a home network, your router
connects your home network to the Internet)
Switch - device that transmitts data on a network; makes decisions based on media access control of the
data to where the data should be sent. Works as a traffic signal on a network
Home Area Network (HAN) - P2P network that is a specific type of LAN (HAN) that is located in the home
that shares an internet connection
ISP - Specialized providers that you must purchase internet from; can also provide other services (i.e.
cable, home phone, etc.)
Broadband - High-speed internet connection (i.e. cable, satellite, or digital subscriber line [DSL])
Cellular Internet / Wireless ISP - ISP that provides service to wireless devices such as smartphones;
connects to 3G/4G.
Cable Internet - Broadband service that transmits data over coaxial cables, the same cables as cable
television; however cable TV is a separate service
DSL (digital subscriber line) - Copper wire phone line; type of connection that uses telephone lines to
connect the Internet and allow both phone and data transmissions to share the same line
Fiber-Optic Service - Strands of optically pure glass/plastic that trasmits data at the speed of light;
arranged in bundles such as optical cables
Satellite Internet - Connects to the internet using a small satellite dish that's placed outside the home
and connected to a computer with
a coaxial cable (the same cables used in cable internet). The difference is the satellite sends the data to
another satellite
orbiting Earth, where they communicate with each other
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller VasilyKichigin. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for $13.48. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.
