3.1.1 State the function of EACH of the following components in a network: (a) Switch (b) Wireless access point (c) Router (d) Server 3.1.2 A firewall is essential in a network to safeguard against breaches in security - NSC Information Technology - Question 3 - 2023 - Paper 2

A wireless access point sends and receives radio waves, enabling wireless devices to connect to a network.

A router directs data to its correct destination and facilitates communication between different networks, including connecting devices to the internet.

A server provides resources to clients in a network, such as file sharing and resource management, and ensures access and security of these resources.

1. Using anti-virus/anti-malware software.
2. Keeping all software up to date.

1. A large number of users connected to the access point.
2. Electromagnetic interference from other devices.

The process of torrenting involves breaking files into smaller segments and distributing them among multiple peers (users) on a network. Each peer can download parts of a file simultaneously from several other peers, enhancing speed and efficiency. Once all segments are downloaded, they are reassembled into a complete file.

The component that identifies the network layout as a star topology is the switch.

The single biggest disadvantage of using a star topology is that if the central switch fails, the entire network becomes inoperative.