Computer Chapter 2
1. Network Definition: A system of interconnected things or electronic devices that can communicate.
2. History & Purpose: Computer networks were first created in the 1950s for military use and allow for
sharing information and resources (wired or wireless).
Key Components:
Host: A computer participating in network communication (client, server, or both).
Network Interface Card (NIC): Hardware device necessary for reliable communication.
Nodes: Network connecting devices (hubs, switches, bridges).
Communication Media: Two types of transmission media are discussed:
Guided (Wired/Bounded): Requires a physical path and provides a direct signal (e.g., coaxial
cable, optic cable).
Unguided (Wireless/Unbounded): Transmits through air/water and doesn't provide a direct
signal (e.g., radio waves, microwaves).
USES OF DIFFERENT TYPES OF TRANSMISSION MEDIA
Cellular communication: Enables mobile phone use.
Satellite Communication: Uses artificial satellites for communication links across Earth.
GPS: A space-based radio navigation system for accurate navigation.
Bluetooth: A short-range wireless standard for data exchange over short distances.
Wi-Fi Embedded Systems: Utilized in various devices such as digital cameras, wristwatches,
and washing machines.
Network Architecture
Defines how computers are organized and tasks are allocated
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture
All connected computers have equal power and privileges
No central server
Each device acts as both client and server, sharing resources like memory and processing power
Used in memory-intensive applications, e.g., 3D graphic rendering
Client/Server Architecture
Nodes are either servers (provide resources) or clients (access resources)
Servers manage client behavior; clients generally do not share resources
Common in enterprise networks, where servers store data and configuration settings accessed
by clients
Network Topology
Arrangement of nodes and links in a network; different configurations affect performance and
reliability
Bus Topology
Each node connects to only one other node
Data flows in one direction
Ring Topology
Nodes form a ring, each linked to two others
Data can flow bi-directionally
A single node failure can disrupt the entire network
Star Topology
Central server connects to multiple client devices
Offers better performance and reliability
Mesh Topology
Nodes connect to many others
Full mesh: every node connects to every other node
Top Tip
Choose topology based on network size and needs, considering cable length, type, cost, and
scalability
Types of Computer Network
Understanding various types of networks and their uses is essential
Personal Area Network (PAN)
Description: Smallest network, covers ~10 meters (single room or building), connects personal
devices like computers and smartphones; Bluetooth commonly used
Advantages: Relatively safe and protected
Disadvantages: Limited range; possible interference with other networks
Local Area Network (LAN)
Description: Connects devices within a local area (single building or nearby buildings)
Advantages: Centralized data storage and management on a server, enhancing security; shared
internet access among users
Disadvantages of LAN
Risk of unauthorized data access if not secured
Requires ongoing administration for software and hardware issues
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
Description: LAN using wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi)
Advantages: Reliable, less wiring, lower cost, high data rate in small areas
Disadvantages: Limited range, slower data rate with more devices, radio frequency interference,
lower data security
Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
Description: Connects multiple LANs across a city or town
Management: Usually handled by a large company or organization
Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
Advantages:
o Facilitates communication between banks, colleges, etc. within a city
o Used in airline reservations and armed forces communication
Disadvantages:
o Requires more cables for connections
o Difficult to protect from hackers
Wide Area Network (WAN)
Advantages:
o Covers large geographical areas, connecting remote workplaces
o Connects devices like smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles
Disadvantages:
o Risk of viruses, privacy threats, and data loss
o High setup cost
Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Description: Enhances online security and privacy by encrypting data and masking user identity;
useful on public networks for sensitive information
Advantages: Protects privacy, bypasses geographical restrictions, affordable, easy to set up
Disadvantages: Slower connection speed, free from online censorship, provider may monitor
activities
Edge Computing
Computing occurs near the user, e.g., in autonomous vehicles
Data Analytics
Analyzing raw data to draw conclusions and predict future trends
Applied in sectors like business, healthcare, and education
Top Tip
Maintain strong network security and use strong passwords to reduce hacking risks
Li-Fi (Light Fidelity)
Latest wireless optical networking technology
Uses LEDs for bidirectional data transmission
Faster than Wi-Fi
IoT (Internet of Things)
Encompasses all internet-connected devices, networks, and data
Examples: smart homes, self-driving cars