Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Tech Guide 4: Basics of Telecommunications and Networks


1. Describe the basic telecommunications system?

A telecommunication system consists of hardware and software that transmit information from one location to another. These systems can transmit text, data, graphics, voice, documents, or full-motion video information with two basic types of signals, analog and digital. The major components of a telecommunications system include the following: devices, communications processors, and communications channels and media.

2. Compare and contrast the main wired communications channels? (Ethernet & Fibre Optic)




3. What are the main business reasons for using networks?

First, networked computer systems enable organizations to be more flexible so that they can adapt to rapidly changing business conditions. Second, networks enable companies to share hardware, computer applications, and data across the organization and among organizations. Third, networks make it possible for geographically dispersed employees and workgroups to share documents, ideas, and creative insights. This sharing encourages teamwork, innovation, and more efficient and defective interactions. Finally, networks are a critical link between businesses and their customers.

4. What is the difference between LANs and WANs?


LAN (Local Area Network) connects two or more devices in a limited geographical region, usually within the same building, so that every device on the network can communicate with every other device. WAN (Wide-Area Networks) are networks that cover large geographic areas and typically connect multiple LANs.




5. What is a network protocol?

A network protocol is a set of rules and procedures governing transmission across a network.

6. Describe TCP/IP protocol.

The Transmission Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is the protocol of the internet. TCP/IP uses a suite of protocols, the main ones being the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and the Internet Protocol (IP). The TCP performs three basic functions: 1) it manages the movement of packets between computers by establishing a connection between the computers, 2) it sequences the transfer of packets, and 3) it acknowledges the packets that have been transmitted. The Internet Protocol (IP) is responsible for disassembling, delivering, and reassembling the data during transmission.

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