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CSUK Lesson Retrieval Practice – Answer Sheet

Local Area Networks (OCR)
1. What is a network? [2]

Answer: A network is a collection of two or more computers [1] connected together to share information
and resources [1].

2. What is a LAN? [3]

Answer: A LAN is a Local Area Network [1]. It is a connection of computers and devices which are
confined to a small geographical area [1]. They are therefore relatively small and quite often the network
infrastructure will be the property of the organization [1].

3. What is a node? [1]

Answer: Each device on a network is known as a node (e.g. computer, printer, etc.) [1].

4. What are 2 advantages of Local Area Networks? [2]

Answer: Local Area Networks enable digital communication between people [1], the sharing of digital
information [1], the sharing of peripheral devices such as printers and scanners [1], computers to be
updated with the latest software from a central point [1], and distributed processing – the ability for a
single program to be run simultaneously at various computers [1].

5. What are 2 disadvantages of Local Area Networks? [2]

Answer: They require a bit of ‘expertise’ to install and maintain a large network [1] which can be costly
[1]. There can also be security issues from unauthorized access to data [1].

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6. What are 2 measures to secure a network? [2]

Answer: Measures to secure a network include using strong passwords with a range of character types [1],
not allowing users to install software [1], using encryption with wireless access [1], and changing
passwords frequently [1].

7. What is needed to make a typical modern day LAN? [3]

Answer: At least two nodes [1], each containing NICs (Network Interface Cards) [1], data transfer media
(wires or wireless), a hub/switch [1].

8. What are the two main data transfer mediums? [2]

Answer: The two main data transfer mediums are wired [1] (Ethernet) and wireless [1] (Wi-Fi &
Bluetooth).

9. Describe one advantages of using wireless technology? [1]

Answer: Wireless technology has many advantages over wired networks, including the ability to add new
nodes easily [1] and without building work [1], allowing the general public to access the network/internet
if allowed [1].

10. What is the difference between a hub and a switch? [2]

Answer: A hub is a device that connects nodes together, making all connected nodes act as a single
segment. It is not considered intelligent as data packets are transmitted across the whole of the network
[1]. A switch is also a device that connects node

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