1. If all the paths of data communications were visible to the human eye, we might be overwhelmed. Why? Give some examples.

2. What makes one medium capable of greater data communication speed than another?

3. Which medium currently enables the fastest data communications?

4. Repeaters are used on many communication lines. What is their purpose? What does a repeater do?

5. Networking professionals speak of "the last mile." What is "the last mile," and what is its significance?

6. Would an astronomy observatory 20 miles away from a city or town likely be able to get DSL service? Why?

7. What risks to organizations does the growing use of networks pose?

8. What is a virtual private network? Why is it called "virtual"?

9. What is a network protocol?

10. What are the technical advantages of optical fibers over other communications media?

11. The same communication medium can transport three different services. This is true of two media. Which media? What are the three services?

12. What do you believe are the security and privacy issues associated with placing RFID chips in clothing? How would you feel if the RFID chip remained in your clothing while you were wearing it?

13. What is VoIP? If you were a business owner, what factors would you consider to be important in order to switch to VoIP for your phone system?

14. What is BPL? Why is the technology potentially available to almost every home?

15. Explain the notions of WAN, LAN, MAN, and PAN.