Computer Networking Notes
Definition : A computer network refers to a collection of interconnected computing devices andsystems that are
linked together to share resources, exchange data, and communicate witheach other. These devices can include
computers, servers, routers, switches, printers, and otherhardware components.
1. What is a Computer Network?
A computer network is a group of interconnected devices that communicate with each other toshare data
and resources.
It enables:
● Communication (email, messaging)
● Resource sharing (files, printers)
● Internet access
2. Components of a Network
A computer network consists of the following key components:
a) Nodes
● Devices that send or receive data
● Examples: Computers, mobile phones, printers, servers
b) Networking Devices
● Routers → Direct data between networks
● Switches → Connect devices within a network
c) Transmission MediaThis is the medium through which data travels.
This is the medium through which data travels.
● Wired Media
○ Ethernet cables
○ Optical fiber
● Wireless Media
○ Wi-Fi
○ Bluetooth
○ Infrared
3. How a Computer Network Works
A computer network operates by allowing devices to exchange data using a structured communication
system.
Step-by-Step Working:
1. A network consists of nodes like computers, servers, routers, and switches.
2. These nodes are connected through links:
○ Wired (cables, fiber)
○ Wireless (Wi-Fi, radio signals)
3. When data is sent:
○ It is broken into smaller units called packets
4. These packets travel across the network using defined rules called protocols
5. Each device has a unique IP address
○ Ensures correct delivery of data
6. Switches and routers forward packets through the best path
7. Security systems like firewalls monitor and control traffic
4. Key Concepts to Remember
● Packet → Small unit of data
● Protocol → Rules for communication (e.g., TCP/IP)
● IP Address → Unique identifier for each device
● Firewall → Security system that filters traffic
Internet – Structured Notes
1. What is the Internet?
The Internet is a global network of interconnected computer networks that communicate using standard
protocols.
● It connects millions of private, public, academic, and business networks
● Enables services like:
○ Web browsing
○ Email○ Video streaming
○ Online communication
In simple terms:
Internet = Network of Networks
2. Important Clarification
Internet is NOT wireless
● The backbone of the internet is wired infrastructure
● Data primarily travels through:
○ Fiber optic cables
○ Submarine cables (under oceans)
Even if you use Wi-Fi:
● Your device → wireless to router
● Router → wired to ISP → global internet
3. Evolution of the Internet
a) ARPANET (1969)
● Developed by the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA), USA
● First operational computer network
● Connected research institutions
Key Features:
● Decentralized design
● Fault-tolerant (network continues even if parts fail)
● Enabled resource sharing
This is the foundation of today’s internet
b) Expansion Phase
● Networks started connecting across:
○ Universities
○ Research labs
○ Government systems
● Gradually expanded to different countries
c) Commercialization (1990s)
● Introduction of Internet Service Providers (ISPs)
● Public gained access to the internet
● Rapid global adoption
d) Modern Internet
● Global connectivity across continents
● High-speed fiber networks
● Cloud computing, streaming, real-time communication
4. How the Internet Actually Works
When you open a website:
1. Request goes from your device to your ISP
2. Travels through multiple networks
3. Reaches destination server
4. Response comes back the same way
All of this happens in milliseconds via physical cables + routing systems
5. ISP (Internet Service Provider) Hierarchy
The internet is structured in layers:
Tier 1 ISP
● Connect entire countries/continents
● Own global backbone infrastructure
● Examples:
○ AT&T
○ Tata Communications
○ Google
○ Meta
Tier 2 ISP
● Connect regions or states
● Purchase bandwidth from Tier 1Examples:
● Jio
● Airtel
Tier 3 ISP
● Provide internet to end users
● Operate locally
Examples:
● Local broadband providers (e.g., Mahalaxmi Broadband)
6. Network vs Internet
Network
● A group of connected devices in a limited area
● Can be private
● Example: Office network, home Wi-Fi
Internet
● A global public system
● Connects millions of networks together
Key Difference:
● Network = small scope
● Internet = global scale
Wired vs Wireless – Key Differences
Feature Wired Communication Wireless Communication
Mediu
m Physical cables Air (radio signals)
Speed Faster Slower (comparatively)
Stability Highly stable Can fluctuate
Latency Low Higher
Mobilit
y Limited High (portable)
Security More secure Less secure (needs encryption)
Setup Complex (cabling needed) Easy