Computer Networking?
Computer networking is the process of connecting two or more computers or
devices to share resources (such as files, printers, and internet access) and
communicate with each other.
A computer network is an interconnection of two or more computers or
devices to share resources and communicate with each other.
Types of Computer Networks
1. Local Area Network (LAN)
Covers a small geographical area (e.g., school, office, home)
High speed and low cost
Example: Computers connected within a classroom
2. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
Covers a city or large campus
Larger than LAN but smaller than WAN
Example: Network connecting multiple offices in a city
3. Wide Area Network (WAN)
Covers a very large area (countries or continents)
Uses public communication links
Example: The Internet
Networking Devices
1. Hub
A basic networking device
Sends data to all connected devices
No intelligence (does not filter data)
Can cause network congestion
2. Switch
More advanced than a hub
Sends data only to the intended device
Uses MAC addresses to identify devices
Improves network efficiency
3. Router
Connects different networks together or to the Internet.
Directs data using IP addresses
Chooses the best path for data transmission
Addresses in Networking
1. MAC Address (Media Access Control Address)
A unique physical address assigned to a device (cannot change)
Stored in the network interface card (NIC)
Example: 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E
Used within a local network (LAN)
2. IP Address (Internet Protocol Address)
A logical address used to identify devices on a network
Can change depending on the network
Two types:
IPv4 (e.g., [Link]) four group of numbers ranging from 0-255
seperated by periods
IPv6 (more complex format using hexadecimal codes)
Used for communication across networks
Protocols
Protocols are rules that control how data is formatted, transmitted, received
and interpreted over a network.
Examples:
HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol): Used for web pages
HTTPS: Secure version of HTTP
FTP (File Transfer Protocol): Used to transfer files
TCP/IP: Main protocol for the Internet
URLs (Uniform Resource Locator)
The address used to locate resources on the Internet
Example: [Link]
Parts of a URL:
Protocol: https://
Domain name: [Link]
Path: location of a specific page/file
(Quick Review)
Device Function
Hub Broadcasts data to all devices
Switch Sends data to a specific device
Connects one networks to another, and directs
Router
network traffic
Internet technologies
The internet is a global network of interconnected devices that allows users to
communicate, access information, and perform tasks online.
Internet technologies encompass the devices, systems, protocols, and tools
that enable global digital communication, networking, and online services.
Key Components of Internet Technologies
1. Networking and Infrastructure
IP Addresses: Unique numbers that identify devices on the internet.
Domain Name System (DNS): Translates human-readable domain
names (e.g. [Link]) into IP addresses (e.g. [Link])
Routers and Switches: Direct traffic efficiently across networks.
Internet Service Providers (ISPs): Provide access to the internet for
individuals and organizations.
2. Protocols and Communication
HTTP/HTTPS: Protocols for accessing and securing websites.
FTP/SFTP: For file transfers.
SMTP/POP3/IMAP: Protocols for sending and receiving email.
TCP/IP: Core protocol suite for routing and delivering data over the
internet.
3. Web and Application Technologies
HTML, CSS, JavaScript: Languages for creating web pages and
interactive experiences.
Web Servers and Clients: Programs like Apache or Nginx that serve
websites to browsers.
APIs (Application Programming Interfaces): Enable applications to
interact and exchange data.
4. Cloud Computing
Storage and Computing Services: Platforms that provide computing
power and storage over the internet
Software as a Service (SaaS): Applications delivered over the internet,
such as Google Workspace or Zoom.
5. Security and Cybersecurity
Firewalls and Encryption: Protect data in transit and prevent
unauthorized access.
VPNs (Virtual Private Networks): Allow secure remote connections.
Authentication and Access Control: Methods such as two-factor
authentication to secure systems and users.
6. Emerging Internet Technologies
Internet of Things (IoT): Devices connected to the internet to collect and
exchange data.
5G Network Technology: Provides faster internet speeds with lower
latency.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Web Services: Powers chatbots, content
recommendations, and predictive analytics.
Online Communication:
Online communication refers to the exchange of information between people
using the internet. It includes tools such as e-mail, instant messaging, video
calls, social media, and online forums. This type of communication makes it
possible for people to connect and share ideas instantly, regardless of their
location. It is commonly used for learning, business, and social interaction.
Etiquette (Netiquette):
Etiquette, or netiquette, is the set of rules and good manners for
communicating online. It involves being polite, respectful, and responsible
when interacting with others on the internet. Examples include using
appropriate language, avoiding offensive comments, respecting others’
privacy, and not sending spam messages. Good netiquette helps create a
positive and safe online environment for everyone.
E-mail:
E-mail (electronic mail) is a method of communication that involves sending
and receiving messages over the internet. It allows users to exchange text,
documents, images, and other files quickly and efficiently. Each user has a
unique e-mail address, and messages can be sent to one or multiple
recipients at the same time. E-mail is widely used for formal communication in
schools, businesses, and organizations.
Instant Messaging:
Instant messaging is a form of online communication that allows people to
send and receive text messages in real time over the internet. It often
includes features like emojis, voice notes, file sharing, and group chats.
Popular platforms include WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger. It is widely
used for quick, informal communication.
Video Calls:
Video calls enable people to communicate face-to-face over the internet
using audio and video. This allows participants to see and hear each other in
real time, making communication more personal and interactive. Video calls
are commonly used for online classes, meetings, and staying in touch with
family and friends through apps like Zoom and Google Meet.
Social Media:
Social media refers to online platforms where users create, share, and
interact with content such as text, images, and videos. It allows people to
connect, communicate, and build communities. Examples include Instagram,
Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter). Social media is widely used for
communication, entertainment, education, and business promotion.
E-mail Etiquette:
E-mail etiquette refers to the rules and good manners for writing and sending
e-mails, especially in formal or professional settings. It helps ensure
messages are clear, respectful, and effective.
Key points of good e-mail etiquette include:
Using a clear and appropriate subject line
Starting with a polite greeting (e.g., “Dear Sir/Ma” or “Hello”)
Writing in clear, simple, and respectful language
Avoiding slang, excessive abbreviations, or typing in all capital letters
Keeping the message brief and to the point
Checking for spelling and grammar errors before sending
Ending with a polite closing (e.g., “Yours sincerely” or “Best regards”)
Following proper e-mail etiquette helps create a good impression and
improves communication.
Digital storage
Duigital storage is a method to retain digital data on electronic devices. It
encompasses various media types, including hard drives, flash drives, and
cloud storage.
Cloud computing and cloud storage
Cloud computing is the art of providing computer resources (servers, storage,
databases, networking, software) over the internet on demand. Usually you
are billed based on how much resource you use over a period of time.
Cloud storage
This is storing data on remote servers managed by a provider and accessed
over a network. The service provider makes available and manages the
required hardware.
Network file systems (NFS)
A file system is what we use on our computers to save and retrieve files. A
file system give us the abilityto create folders, save file and delete files. NFS
provides a newtwork version of a file sytem. Nework file system are not only
available via a browser, but can also be synchronized with some folder on
our local storage; changes made to the content of the local folder reflects in
the online file system as well. NFS is suitable for situations where 2 or more
people must have access to the same file from different computers. If one
person alters the file locally it is automatically uploaded and the changes are
reflected in other peoples computer systems
Archive/cold storage: Very low-cost, Files are stored but are not
synchronized or shared. The speed requirement is not high.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting computer systems, networks,
programs, and data from unauthorized access, damage, disruption, or theft.
We use available technologies like anti-viruses, firewalls, encryption tools, etc
and best practices to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability (CIA)
of digital resources.
Importance of Cybersecurity
Protects sensitive data: prevents loss or exposure of personal,
financial, and business information.
Maintains business continuity: reduces downtime from attacks that
disrupt systems or services.
Prevents financial loss: avoids direct theft, fraud, ransom payments,
and recovery costs.
Preserves reputation and trust: a breach can damage customer
confidence and legal standing.
Meets legal/compliance requirements: many industries require
security controls and breach reporting.
Major threats
Malware (malicious software)
Description: Software designed to harm or exploit your systems,
examples: viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, and
cryptominers.
Symptoms:Unexpected file changes, slow performance, unexplained
network traffic, encrypted files, popups and demands are warning
signs of malicious software
Always keep your Operating System and other software up to date,
especially antivirus
Phishing (social-engineering attacks)
Phishing are deceptive messages (via email, SMS, social media) that
trick users into revealing sensitive informaton, downloading malware,
or performing dubious actions (e.g., making wire transfers).
If you get unexpected requests for credentials or money, poor
spelling/grammar, mismatched sender addresses or links, urgent
requests, you may be a candidate for phiishing scam
Get trained to detect suspicious intention, use multi-factor
authentication (MFA); (email authentication link/attachment)
Hacking / Unauthorized access
This is process in which attackers exploit vulnerabilities to gain access
to systems and data. This includes brute-force, SQL injection, cross-
site scripting (XSS), privilege escalation, and stolen credentials.
Symptoms:
unusual login times/locations
multiple failed logins
new admin accounts
unexpected configuration changes,
patterns showng data lost
Always use strong passwords; always update your system on time use
firewalls (WAF); monitor loggins, login with limited privileges (so that
attacker will not be able to do much damage to the system if they
succeed in breaking in)