Computer Networks – Study Notes
Communication Channels
Communication channels are the mediums through which data travels between devices. These
channels may consist of physical media such as cables and optical fibres or wireless media using
electromagnetic waves. The efficiency and quality of data transfer depend largely on the channel
used. Communication channels transmit data as signals. For analog signals, bandwidth is
measured in Hertz, while for digital signals it is measured in bits per second. Higher bandwidth
allows more data to be transmitted.
Guided Media (Bounded Media)
Guided media uses physical cables for data transmission. These include twisted pair cables,
coaxial cables, and optical fibre cables.
Twisted Pair Cable
Twisted pair cable consists of two insulated copper wires twisted together to reduce interference. It
is widely used in telephones and LANs. Two types exist: Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) and
Shielded Twisted Pair (STP). UTP is cheaper and commonly used, while STP provides higher
performance due to its metallic shielding.
Coaxial Cable
Coaxial cable consists of a central conductor, insulation, a metallic shield, and an outer layer. Its
shielding reduces interference, making it suitable for cable television and early LANs.
Optical Fibre Cable
Optical fibre transmits data in the form of light pulses, offering extremely high bandwidth and
minimal signal loss. It is ideal for high-speed, long-distance communication and is immune to
electromagnetic interference.
Unguided Media (Wireless)
Unguided media transmits data through air using radio waves, microwaves, or satellite
communication. These are used in mobile communication, broadcasting, and long-distance
networks.
Elementary Terminology of Networks
Node
A node is any device in a network capable of sending, receiving, or forwarding information.
Examples include computers, switches, printers, and servers. Nodes have unique identification
such as IP or MAC addresses.
Network Server
A server is a specialized computer that manages and provides services like data storage, file
sharing, and security to other devices in a network. Servers may be dedicated or non-dedicated
depending on their use.
Network Interface Card (NIC)
NIC allows a device to connect to a network. Each NIC has a unique MAC address. NICs may be
wired or wireless and act as an interface between the computer and network.
Types of Networks
Local Area Network (LAN)
A LAN connects computing devices within a small geographic area such as a room, building, or
campus. LANs provide fast data transfer and enable resource sharing. They typically use cables
and operate at high speeds.
Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
A MAN covers larger areas such as a city and is used by cable TV networks and broadband
providers. MANs often use fibre optic cables and offer high-speed communication.
Wide Area Network (WAN)
WANs cover vast geographical areas including countries and continents. They connect multiple
LANs and MANs using telephone lines, satellites, and leased lines. The Internet is the largest WAN.
Personal Area Network (PAN)
A PAN covers a small area around an individual, usually up to 10 meters. It connects personal
devices like mobile phones, tablets, and laptops using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.