(a) Reasons that might motivate the school management into connecting the computers together are;
- To enhance communication and availability of information.
- It allows for more convenient resource sharing
- It makes file sharing easier.
- It is highly flexible.
- It is an inexpensive system.
- It boosts storage capacity.
- It increases cost efficiency.
(b) Network devices required to accomplish the task in 3(a)
-Computer system.
-Network cable.
-Network Interface card.
-HUP.
-Switch.
-Router.
-Proxy server.
-Bridge.
-Firewall.
-Modem
(c) (a) Network cable; It is a device that enables a computer to be connected to the network.
(b) Network Interface card; It controls the wired and wireless connections of a computer to exchange information with other computers. It connects the computer to a local data network. It enables computers to communicate with one another. It serves as a mediator for network and computers.
(c) Hub; It is used to connect segments of a LAN. Connects multiple computers to other network devices together.
(d) Switch; As access or OS1 layer2. For connecting multiple hosts. Forward a message to specific host.
(e) Router; Connecting multiple networks and forward packets destined either for its own network or other network. It forwards data packets towards their destination. It forwards the packets to the destination of the TTL value is O. It changes the destination IP address of data packages before forwarding them to an exit interface. It determines the best path based on the destination MAC address. It acts as an intersection between multiple IP networks.
(f) Proxy Server; Verifies and forward incoming client request to other servers for further communication. Acts as intermediary between the web browser and the web server. Provides internal system security. Speeds up resource access. Applies policies for tracking organizational internet use or accessing employee progress. To by-pass special controls such as parental or security controls. To scan for viruses and malware. To circumvent regional restrictions.
(g) Network Bridge; Connects two segments of a network together. Divides network into manageable sections.
(h) Firewall; Protects networks or network devices. Filters packets. Filters incoming network and outgoing networks. Prevents network traffic. Inspects packets which is supposed to forward to determine whether they correspond to a desired template for traffic patterns.
(i) Modem; Converts digital signals generated by the computer into analog signals. Modulates signals. Data compression. Error correction. Flow control.