ADVANCED COMPUTER NETWORKS — ACSEE FORM

FIVE MASTER NOTES

Topic 3 — Advanced Computer Networks

1. Introduction to Computer Networks

A computer network is a collection of interconnected computers and devices that communicate and share
resources.

Examples of shared resources:

• Files
• Printers
• Internet connection
• Applications

Advantages of networks: 1. Resource sharing 2. Fast communication 3. Internet sharing 4. Centralized

management 5. Saves time and cost

2. Network Models
A network model is a framework that explains how communication takes place between devices in a
network.

Main network models: 1. OSI Model 2. TCP/IP Model

3. OSI Model (Open Systems Interconnection

Model)
The OSI model has 7 layers.

Layer Function

7. Application Provides services to users

6. Presentation Formats and encrypts data

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 Layer Function

5. Session Establishes communication

4. Transport Ensures reliable delivery

3. Network Routing and addressing

2. Data Link Error checking and framing

1. Physical Transmission of signals

Memory trick:

Application Presentation Session Transport Network Data Link Physical

Sentence: “All People Seem To Need Data Processing”

Definition: The OSI model is a seven-layer reference model used to describe communication in computer
networks.

4. TCP/IP Model
The TCP/IP model is the practical model used on the internet.

It has 4 layers:

Layer Function

Application User services

Transport Reliable delivery

Internet Addressing and routing

Network Access Physical transmission

Difference between OSI and TCP/IP:

OSI TCP/IP

7 layers 4 layers

Theoretical model Practical model

More detailed Simpler

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5. Communication Protocols
A communication protocol is a set of rules governing communication between devices in a network.

Examples of protocols:

Protocol Function

HTTP Accessing websites

HTTPS Secure websites

FTP File transfer

SMTP Sending emails

TCP Reliable delivery

IP Addressing devices

TCP/IP:

• IP finds destination
• TCP ensures correct delivery

6. Transmission Media
Transmission media refers to the path through which data travels from sender to receiver.

Types of transmission media:

A. Guided Media (Wired)

Uses cables.

Examples:

• Twisted pair cable

• Coaxial cable
• Fiber optic cable

Advantages:

• More secure
• Faster communication

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B. Unguided Media (Wireless)
Does not use cables.

Examples:

• Wi-Fi
• Bluetooth
• Radio waves
• Satellite communication

Advantages:

• Mobility
• Easy installation

7. Straight-Through Cable Construction

Used to connect different devices.

Examples:

• Computer to switch
• Router to switch

Characteristics:

• Same color arrangement on both ends

8. Crossover Cable Construction

Used to connect similar devices.

Examples:

• Computer to computer
• Switch to switch

Characteristics:

• Wires cross positions

Difference between straight-through and crossover cable:

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 Straight-through Crossover

Connects different devices Connects same devices

Same arrangement Crossed arrangement

9. Designing LAN
LAN means Local Area Network.

A LAN covers a small geographical area.

Examples:

• School computer lab

• Office network
• Home Wi-Fi network

Steps in designing LAN: 1. Choose topology 2. Select devices 3. Connect cables 4. Assign IP addresses 5. Test
network

Common devices used:

• Router
• Switch
• Modem
• Access Point

10. Network Topologies

A topology is the arrangement of devices in a network.

Types of topology: 1. Star topology 2. Bus topology 3. Ring topology

Star Topology
All devices connect to a central device.

Advantages:

• Easy to manage
• Easy fault detection

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Disadvantages:

• Expensive
• Entire network fails if central device fails

11. Network Security Principles

Network security protects networks from:

• Hackers
• Viruses
• Unauthorized access

Main security principles (CIA Triad):

Principle Meaning

Confidentiality Only authorized users access data

Integrity Data remains correct

Availability Systems remain accessible

Security tools:

• Firewall
• Antivirus
• Encryption
• Passwords

Security protocols:

• HTTPS
• SSL
• TLS

12. Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)

PSTN is the traditional telephone network system.

Characteristics:

• Uses cables
• Uses switching centers

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 • Used in landline telephones

13. Mobile Telephone System

A mobile telephone system enables wireless communication using mobile devices.

Examples:

• 2G
• 3G
• 4G
• 5G

Components:

• Cell towers
• SIM cards
• Wireless signals

Advantages:

• Mobility
• Fast communication
• Internet access

Important Definitions for Exams

Computer Network
A collection of interconnected computers and devices that communicate and share resources.

Protocol
A set of rules governing communication between devices.

Transmission Media
A path through which data travels from sender to receiver.

LAN
A network covering a small geographical area.

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OSI Model
A seven-layer reference model used to describe communication in networking.

Common ACSEE Examination Questions

1. Define a computer network.
2. Explain OSI model layers.
3. Differentiate between OSI and TCP/IP.
4. Explain guided and unguided media.
5. Differentiate between straight-through and crossover cable.
6. Explain network security principles.
7. Define communication protocol.
8. Explain star topology.
9. Explain PSTN and mobile telephone system.
10. Mention advantages of networking.

Final Revision Tips

1. Memorize definitions.
2. Practice diagrams.
3. Revise comparisons.
4. Learn protocol functions.
5. Practice past papers.
6. Master OSI layers.
7. Understand concepts instead of cramming.

END OF MASTER NOTES