Network - Answers An interconnected collection of computers, computer-related equipment, and
communications devices.
Local area network (LAN) - Answers a network that is usually confined to a single building and is
managed by a single entity such as a company
Metropolitan area network (MAN) - Answers A network that consists of two or more LANs connected
with private or public communications lines within the same geographic area, such as a city or a
university campus. It is managed by a single entity.
Wide area network (WAN) - Answers A network that consists of a large number of networks and PCs
connected with private and public communications lines throughout many geographic areas.
Network topology - Answers The physical arrangement of computers, computer-related devices,
communications devices, and cabling in a network.
Node - Answers Any device attached to the network that is capable of processing and forwarding data.
Bus topology - Answers A network topology that uses a single cable or conductor to connect all nodes on
the network.
backbone - Answers A common cable path that often employs high-speed network cable such as fiber-
optic.
Star topology - Answers A network topology in which cables running from each node connect to a single
point, such as a hub.
Hub - Answers A network devices that provides a common electrical connection to all nodes in a star
topology.
Access port - Answers A connection on a hub to which cables attach.
Ring topology - Answers A network topology that consists of a single cable that runs continuously from
node to node.
Mesh topology - Answers A network topology in which each node on the network connects to every
other node on the network.
Wireless topology - Answers A network topology that does not use cabling.
Hybrid topology - Answers A network topology that consists of a mixture of topology types connected
together.
Hierarchical star - Answers A network topology created when two or more star topologies are merged
using network devices such as hubs, switches, or routers.