NETWORKING
EVERY FORM OF DIGITAL COMMUNICATION
Network:
Networking, also known as computer networking, is the practice of transporting
and exchanging data between nodes over a shared medium in an information
system.
A computer network is a set of computers sharing resources located on or
provided by network nodes. Computers use common communication protocols
over digital interconnections to communicate with each other.
Computer Network Communication:
We transmit information or data by using two types of signals,
namely Analog and Digital.
Computers communicate with Digital Signals.
The older forms of communications technology, such as Telephones,
Radios use Analog Signals.
Wired vs Wireless Networking:
Wired: A wired network uses physical medium (cables) to connect
devices, such as laptop or desktop computers, to the Internet
or another network.
Examples: telephone networks, cable television or internet access,
and fiber-optic communication.
Wireless: A wireless network connects computers without using
network cables. Computers use radio communications to send
data between each other.
Examples: cell phone networks, wireless local area networks
(WLANs), wireless sensor networks, satellite communication
networks, and terrestrial microwave networks.
Types of Networking
There are mainly five types of Computer Networks
[Link] Area Network (PAN)
[Link] Area Network (LAN)
[Link] Area Network (CAN)
[Link] Area Network (MAN)
[Link] Area Network (WAN)
Comparison between Different Computer Networks
Network topologies:
The physical and logical way a network is configured is called its topology. The physical
deployment may look the same for each topology, but the internal workings of the network
its logical structure -- differentiate one network architecture from another.
The following are 06 main types of network topologies:
Star network. Each node in a star network is connected to a central hub, typically a computer or
server, but not directly to other nodes. It's also referred to as a hub-and-spoke
topology.
Ring network. Each node has two connection points for linking to other devices; in practice,
such as when using a token ring network, each device has a single physical
network connection.
Mesh network. Each node in a mesh network connects to every other node; this is often a costly
arrangement considering the number of links required.
Network topologies:
Hybrid network. Hybrid topology is a network structure that combines two or more
different types of topologies, such as star, ring, bus, or mesh..
Bus network. Each device in a bus network connects to a single cable called a bus.
When data packets traverse the bus, they look for the "station"
containing the correct destination address.
Tree network. Connecting multiple star networks to a shared bus creates a tree
topology.
Advantages of computer networks:
Convenience and flexibility. Networks make it faster and easier to access all kinds of information and
resources. With internet-connected devices in nearly every pocket, conduct financial transactions,
participate in meetings and perform an almost infinite number of digital activities from almost anywhere.
Resource sharing. Network technology links people with all kinds of information, devices and resources,
making it easy to share them. Access to servers, printers, copiers etc. Otherwise, each user would need
their own copy of each resource.
Innovation. The ability to interconnect devices and share data among them creates the opportunity for new
ways of doing business, operating communities, communicating with others, automating tasks,
innovative applications and more.
Data storage. Networks play a key role in data storage. Getting data from the point of creation to a storage
location depends on networking. Whether stored locally or hosted remotely in a cloud service,
networks transport data to a storage device. Without a network, people would need to physically
transport data from one device to another.
Entertainment. Networks make access to an enormous selection of entertainment sources, such as
games, music and video, possible. The internet enables people around the world to participate in
multiplayer games.
Risks to computer networks:
Data networks come with their own set of risks that users must be aware of. They include the following:
Security threats. Networks are an attractive target for hackers and other malicious actors who wish to
cause disruptions, divert resources, steal data or access sensitive information.
Infrastructure damage. Network integrity depends on the continuous availability of the supporting
infrastructure. This can include underground cables, aerial cables on poles, carrier switching center
buildings, wireless transmission towers and buildings, and electric utilities. This infrastructure is
susceptible to tornadoes, earthquakes, floods, electrical storms, solar flares, physical and cybersecurity
breaches, vandalism and terrorism.
Misconfigurations. Network devices must be configured for proper operation -- a process that's
susceptible to human error. For example, if an incorrect command is issued, a device might not transmit
data as needed.
Equipment failure. Like any other type of equipment, network devices can experience hardware- or
software-related failures, with or without warning.
Power loss. Communications systems need power to operate, so loss of power without a suitable backup
can disrupt business operations.
The future of networking
Wired and wireless networking will continue to coexist in the coming years. Speeds
are likely to increase as demands for greater speed and bandwidth
continue. Advances in network technology have raised the bar on performance and
reduced latency.
Artificial intelligence, machine learning and automation have the potential to
dramatically influence network performance and management as well. Given the
ever-growing threat of network attacks, AI will likely play an increasingly important
role in network security.