Computer Networks

Repeaters operate at the physical layer (Layer 1) to regenerate signals and extend the range of a network.

The Physical layer (Layer 1) deals with the hardware components of a network, including cables, connectors, hubs, and network interface cards (NICs).

VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) operate at the Data Link layer (Layer 2) because they involve tagging frames with VLAN IDs to segment traffic within a switch.

In the TCP/IP model, the Network Access layer combines the functions of the OSI Physical and Data Link layers (Layers 1 and 2).

The Internet layer in the TCP/IP model corresponds to the Network layer in the OSI model, handling packet addressing and routing.

The Data Link layer provides the functional and procedural means to transfer data between network entities and provides a link to the physical media.

MAC stands for Media Access Control, which is a sublayer of the Data Link layer responsible for controlling how devices on a network gain access to the medium.

The Data Link layer is responsible for framing, error detection, and hardware addressing (MAC addresses), acting as the bridge between software and physical media.

Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cables use the twisting of wire pairs to cancel out electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk from neighboring pairs.

Fiber optic cables are generally more expensive to manufacture and install compared to standard copper-based cables like UTP.

VLANs are not immune to STP attacks; they are susceptible to various layer 2 attacks, including VLAN hopping and STP manipulation.

A transmission medium (or channel) is the path through which a message travels from the sender to the receiver. Examples include air for sound, fiber optics, or digital networks.

An Ethernet hub broadcasts all incoming data to every port, which creates unnecessary network traffic and collisions. Switches and routers are much more efficient at directing traffic.