Explanation should include
- the benefits of a network (e.g., information sharing, hardware sharing, software sharing, collaborative environment)
- a list and description of the types of networks (e.g., local and wide area)
- a list and description of communications media
- physical media
- twisted-pair cable
- coaxial cable
- fiber optic cable
- wireless media
- radio signals
- microwaves
- satellites
- a description of communications hardware
- modem
- cable modem
- network interface cards
- hub, bridge
- gateway
- router
- software (e.g., network operating systems software)
- a description and example of the different network topologies (e.g., bus, ring, star, hybrid), network architecture, and protocols (e.g., Ethernet, token ring, and transmission control protocol [TCP]/IP, which is used by both local and wide area networks to connect to the Internet).