COMPLETE COMPUTER NETWORKING NOTES (With Full
Terminology – CBSE)
1. Computer Network – Definition
A computer network is a collection of two or more computers and digital devices connected through wired or
wireless communication channels for the purpose of sharing data, resources, and information. Networking enables
fast communication, collaboration, and efficient use of hardware and software resources.
Objectives of Computer Networking
The objectives of networking include resource sharing such as printers, scanners, files, and software;
communication through email, chat, and video conferencing; cost reduction by sharing expensive devices; improved
reliability through data backup and redundancy; and centralized data management which allows better control and
security.
2. Components of a Computer Network
A computer network consists of the following components. The sender is the device that initiates communication.
The receiver is the device that receives the data. The message is the information being transmitted. The
transmission medium is the physical or wireless path through which data travels. Protocols are predefined rules that
control communication between devices.
3. Types of Computer Networks
Local Area Network (LAN) covers a small area such as a classroom, office, or school and provides high speed at
low cost. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) covers a city or large campus and connects multiple LANs. Wide Area
Network (WAN) covers a very large geographical area such as countries or continents; the Internet is the best
example. Personal Area Network (PAN) covers a very small area around an individual and is commonly used for
Bluetooth devices.
4. Network Topology
Network topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of devices in a network and determines how data
flows between them.
Types of Network Topologies
Bus topology uses a single backbone cable to connect all devices; it is inexpensive but failure of the main cable
affects the entire network. Star topology connects all devices to a central hub or switch; it is easy to manage but hub
failure disrupts communication. Ring topology connects devices in a circular manner where data flows in one
direction; failure of one node can break the network. Mesh topology connects every device to every other device,
providing high reliability at high cost. Tree topology follows a hierarchical structure and combines multiple star
networks.
5. Networking Devices
A hub broadcasts data to all connected devices. A switch sends data only to the intended device, improving
efficiency and security. A router connects different networks and determines the best path for data packets. A
modem converts digital signals into analog signals and vice versa. A repeater amplifies weak signals to extend
network distance. A bridge connects similar networks. A gateway connects networks that use different protocols.
6. Transmission Media
Transmission media are the channels through which data travels. Guided media include twisted pair cables, coaxial
cables, and optical fiber cables. Twisted pair cables are inexpensive and commonly used. Coaxial cables provide
better noise resistance. Optical fiber cables use light signals, provide very high speed, long distance, and high
security. Unguided media include radio waves, microwaves, infrared, and satellite communication, which are
wireless and flexible but less secure.
7. Data Transmission Terminology
Bandwidth refers to the maximum data transfer capacity of a network. Throughput is the actual amount of data
successfully transferred. Latency is the delay in data transmission. Bit rate refers to the number of bits transmitted
per second. A packet is a small unit of data, and a frame is the data unit at the data link layer.
8. Modes of Communication
In simplex mode, communication is one-way only. In half-duplex mode, communication is two-way but not
simultaneous. In full-duplex mode, communication is two-way and simultaneous.
9. Switching Techniques
Circuit switching establishes a dedicated path for communication. Packet switching divides data into packets and
sends them independently over the network; this method is used on the Internet. Message switching sends the
entire message to the destination before processing.
10. Addressing and Identification
A MAC address is a physical hardware address assigned to a network interface card. An IP address is a logical
address assigned to a device on a network. IP addresses can be static or dynamic, public or private. Domain Name
System (DNS) translates human-readable domain names into IP addresses.
11. Network Architecture
Client-server architecture uses a central server to provide services to clients. Peer-to-peer architecture allows all
devices to act as both client and server. Centralized networks rely on a single main server, whereas distributed
networks share control among multiple nodes.
12. OSI Model
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model consists of seven layers. The Physical layer transmits raw bits. The
Data Link layer manages frames, MAC addressing, and error control. The Network layer handles routing and IP
addressing. The Transport layer ensures reliable delivery using TCP or fast delivery using UDP. The Session layer
manages sessions. The Presentation layer handles encryption and compression. The Application layer provides
user services such as HTTP, FTP, and email.
13. Internet and Web Services
Internet services include the World Wide Web for accessing websites, email for communication, File Transfer
Protocol for transferring files, Voice over Internet Protocol for voice calls, and cloud computing for online storage
and services.
14. Email Terminology
An email client is software used to send and receive emails. Attachments are files sent with emails. CC sends a
copy to additional recipients. BCC hides recipient addresses. Spam refers to unwanted or junk emails.
15. Network Security
Network security protects systems and data from unauthorized access. Common threats include viruses, worms,
Trojan horses, spyware, ransomware, phishing, and hacking. Security measures include firewalls, antivirus
software, encryption, decryption, authentication, authorization, and strong passwords.
16. Modern Networking and Advanced Terminology
Wi-Fi enables wireless networking. A hotspot allows internet sharing. Bluetooth supports short-range
communication. Cloud computing provides online services and storage. Internet of Things (IoT) connects physical
devices to the internet. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) creates a secure private network over the internet.
17. Advantages and Disadvantages of Networking
Advantages of networking include fast communication, resource sharing, cost effectiveness, and centralized data
management. Disadvantages include security risks, high initial setup cost, dependency on the network, and rapid
spread of viruses.
18. CBSE Examination Tips
Students should learn definitions clearly, write answers in points, use neat and labeled diagrams, practice
terminology regularly, and focus on networking devices, OSI model, and security concepts.