Computer network:
System of interconnected devices, such as computers, servers, smartphones, and
printers, that communicates to exchange data.
Communicate using wired or wireless connections and can range from small home
networks to the global internet.
Resource sharing: allows sharing of hardware like printers, scanners, and
storage devices, reducing cost.
Data sharing: Enables users to share files, applications, and databases easily.
Communication: Supports email, videoconferencing, instant messaging, and
web access.
Data Management: Helps in storing, securing, and backing up data
efficiently.
Remote Access: Allows users to access systems and cloud services from
anywhere.
Better Collaboration: Improves teamwork and information exchange among
users.
Fundamentals of Computer Networks:
Basics of Computer Networking:
A computer network is a group of connected devices that communicate with each other to
share data and resources. It enables efficient communication and supports services like
email, file sharing, and internet access.
Connects multiple devices such as computers, servers, and printers.
Enables data and resource sharing.
Supports communication services (email, messaging).
Allows internet and network-based applications.
Improves efficiency and collaboration.
Basic Terminologies:
Network: A group of connected computers and devices that can communicate and share
data.
Node: Any device that can send, receive, or forward data in a network. This includes
laptops, mobiles, printers, earbuds, servers, etc.
Networking Devices: Devices that manage and support networking functions. This
includes routers, switches, hubs, and access points.
Transmission Media: The physical or wireless medium through which data travels
between devices.
Wired media: Ethernet cables, optical fiber.
Wireless media: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, infrared.
Service Provider Network: Networks offered by external providers that allow users or
organizations to lease network access and capabilities. This includes internet providers,
mobile carriers, etc.
Working of a Computer Network:
Network Node: Any device in a network, such as a modem, router, or computer that
sends or receives data.
Link: The medium that connects nodes, like cables, wires, or wireless signals.
Working: Networks use rules called protocols to send and receive data between devices.
Each device is identifies by a unique IP Address.
Firewall: A security tool (hardware or software) that monitors traffic. Based on set rules, it
either allows, blocks, or drops data.
Types of Computer Network Architecture:
Client-Server Architecture: Client-Server Architecture is a type of Computer
Network Architecture in which Nodes can be Servers or Clients. Here, the server node
can manage the Client Node Behavior.
Peer-to-Peer Architecture: In P2P (Peer-to-Peer) Architecture, there is not any
concept of a Central Server. Each device is free for working as either client or server.
Network Devices:
Computer networks can also include multiple devices/mediums which help in the
communication between two different devices; these are knows as Network devices and
include things such as routers, switches, hubs, and bridges. Various Network devices are:
1. Router:
Connects multiple networks (like home network to the internet)
Directs data packets to their correct destination.
2. Switch:
Connects devices within a network (like computers in an office)
Forwards data only to the specific device it is meant for.
3. Hub:
Basic device that connects multiple devices in a network.
Sends data to all devices (less efficient than a switch).
4. Bridge:
Connects and filters traffic between two networks or segments.
Helps reduce network traffic.
5. Gateway:
Connects two different types of networks.
Translates data between different protocols.
6. Access Point (AP):
Provides wireless connectivity to devices.
Extends a wired network into a Wi-Fi network.
7. Modem:
Converts digital data from a computer into signals for phone/cable lines and
vice versa.
Provides internet access.
8. Firewall:
Monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic.
Provides security by blocking unauthorized access.
Goals of Networks:
Convenience: Make computer use easier for users.
Efficiency: Manage hardware resources effectively for better performance.
Resource Management: Allocate CPU, memory, I/O, and storage fairly and
efficiently.
Security & Protection: Protect data and resources from unauthorized access.
Reliability & Fault Tolerance: Ensure system runs smoothly and recovers from
failures.
Scalability: Support growth in users, processes, and resources.
Uses of Computer Networks:
Communication: Email, chat and video conferencing.
Resource Sharing: Share printers, scanners, and files to save cost and effort.
Remote Access: Access data and systems from anywhere.
Collaboration: Work together on projects, share ideas, and review work.
E-Commerce: Enable online shopping and secure payments.
Education: Support online learning, research, and student-teacher collaboration.
Network Devices:
Network Devices (or networking hardware) are the physical appliances required for
communication and interaction between computers on a computer network.
They act as the “plumbing” of the internet, directing data traffic, amplifying signals, and
securing connections.
Common Types of Network Devices: Hub, Router, Gateway, NIC, Modem, Repeater, WAP,
Firewall, IDPS, VPN.
Functions of Network Devices:
Enable communication by transmitting and receiving data between devices.
Allow devices to connect to networks efficiently and securely.
Improve network performance by reducing congestion and managing traffic.
Provide security by controlling access and preventing unauthorized activities.
Extend network coverage and solve signal loss or attenuation problems.
Layer 1 Devices: Physical Layer
These devices deal with raw electrical or optical signals (bits). They are “dumb” devices
that do not understand IP addresses or MAC addresses.
1. Hub
Function: A central connection point for devices in a LAN.
How it Works: It takes an incoming signal on one port and blindly broadcasts
it to all other ports. It does not know who the recipient is.
Drawback: High network traffic collisions and security risks (everyone see
everyone’s data).
Status: Obsolete. Replaced by switches.
2. Repeater
Function: Regenerates signals to extend the range of a network.
How it Works: It receives a weak signal (due to attenuation over long cables),
amplifies it, and retransmits it.
Use Case: Extending Wi-Fi range or Ethernet cables beyond 100 meters.
3. Modem
Function: Connects your home network to the ISP (Internet Service Provider).
How it Works: Converts digital signal from your computer into analog signals
for telephone/cable lines (modulation) and vice-versa.
Layer 2 Devices: Data Link Layer:
These devices work with MAC Addresses (Physical Addresses). They are “smarter” than
hubs.
4. Switch
5. Bridge
6. Access Point (AP)
7. Router
8. Brouter (Bridging Router)
9. Gateway
10. Firewallkjkjoiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii
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