Key Terms

Key Term

Definition

LAN

A local area network covers a small geographical area such as one building or single site

ISP

An ISP is a company that provides individuals and organisations with access to the Internet and other related services. 

Network Interface Controller 

Every computer attached to a network must have an electronic circuit called a network interface controller (NIC). 

Twisted pair cable

Cables made either from copper or glass (fibre-optic). Copper cable used in networks usually comes in the form of a twisted pair cable. 

Cat 5e

A cable that has four data pairs and is able to carry network data at speeds up to 1gbps. Sometimes referred to as gigabit ethernet cable. 

Cat 6 

Newer and more expensive cable that can carry data up to 10gbps. When transmitting this speed the maximum length is 37-55 metres. 

Cat 6a

This can support 10 Gigabit ethernet at 100 metres. It has stronger sheathing which makes it thicker than a Cat 6. Better suited for industrial environments. 

Switches 

A switch connects the computers on a LAN to each other, sometimes one or more is needed. 

Packets 

Data sent between computers and to and from the router in units called packets. Each packet has a number, the address of a source and destination computers typically up to 1000 or 1500 bytes of data. 

IT - Learning Aim B- Connectivity 

Connecting Devices 

Devices are able to communicate and share devices such as printers and scanners. In order to do this computers are connected to form a Local Area Network (LAN). This consists of a collection of connected computers and devices such as printers.Connection to the internet is  provided by an ISP (internet Service Provider). An ISP is a company that provides individuals and organisations with access to the internet and other services.

Network Interface 

Every computer that is attached to a network must have an electronic circuit called a network interface controller. In modern PC’s the interface is built into the motherboard so a separate interface card is not needed. The network interface often has an external jack into which you can plug a network cable.  Devices may be connected by cables or wirelessly. 

Wired Connections 

Copper cables; Cables may be made from either copper of glass (fibre optic). Copper cable used in networks usually comes in the form of twisted pair cable. This is where copper wire is twisted around each other, each pair having one wire sheathed in a solid colour. 

Types of twisted pair cable;

Cat 5e: 4 data pairs and is able to carry network data at speeds up to 1Gbps. This is the least expensive option.

Cat 6: can carry data up to 10Gbps. The maximum length of…