UNIT–1 : Introduction to Computer
Networks
Prepared by Roki...
Data Communication System :
Definition:
Data communication is the exchange of data between two
devices through a transmission medium.
Components:
1. Sender – Device that sends data
2. Receiver – Device that receives data
3. Message – Information to be transmitted
4. Transmission Medium – Path (cable, wireless)
5. Protocol – Rules for communication
Computer Network
Definition:
A computer network is a collection of interconnected
devices that share resources and information.
Advantages:
• Resource sharing
• Data sharing
• Cost reduction
• Reliability
• Communication
Types of Networks
Based on Geographical Area
1. PAN (Personal Area Network): Connects devices around a single person, like
Bluetooth headphones to a phone.
2. LAN (Local Area Network): Connects devices in a limited area, such as a home,
office, or school building.
3. CAN (Campus Area Network): Links multiple LANs within a limited area like a
university campus.
4. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): Covers a city or large town, often
connecting several LANs.
5. WAN (Wide Area Network): Spans large geographical areas, connecting cities,
countries, or the world (e.g., the Internet)
LAN is fastest, WAN is slowest
Network Topologies
Definition:
Topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of nodes in a
network.
Types :
1. Bus: All devices connect to a single backbone cable; simple and
cheap but a cable break affects the whole network.
2. Ring: Each device connects to exactly two others, forming a circle;
data travels in one direction.
3. Star: All nodes connect to a central hub or switch; easy to manage,
but the hub failure takes down the network.
4. Mesh: Devices have multiple, redundant connections; full mesh connects
everything to everything (high cost, high reliability).
5. Tree: A hierarchy of star networks, like an extended star; good for large
networks but vulnerable if the main backbone fails.
6. Hybrid: Combines two or more topologies (e.g., Star-Bus or Star-Ring) to
leverage benefits, common in modern setups.
Star topology is most commonly used
Network Protocol
A network protocol is a set of standardized rules that dictate how devices
(computers, phones, servers) communicate, format, send, and receive
data across a network.
Key Functions
1. Data Formatting: Specifies how data is structured (e.g., into packets).
2. Addressing: Defines how devices find each other (like IP addresses).
3. Error Handling: Manages detection and correction of transmission
errors.
4. Flow Control: Regulates data flow to prevent network
congestion.
5. Synchronization: Coordinates data exchange timing.
Examples: TCP, IP, HTTP, FTP, SMTP
Layered Network Architecture
Layered network architecture divides complex communication into
distinct, manageable layers, each with specific tasks (like
addressing, routing, error control) and rules (protocols).
Advantages:
• Easy troubleshooting
• Standardization
• Interoperability
• Simplified design
OSI Reference Model
The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Model is a set of rules
that explains how different computer systems communicate over
a network. OSI Model was developed by the International
Organization for Standardization (ISO). The OSI Model consists of
7 layers and each layer has specific functions and responsibilities.
The Seven Layers (Top to Bottom)
1. Application Layer (Layer 7): Where users interact; provides
network services to applications (e.g., browsers, email clients).
2. Presentation Layer (Layer 6): Handles data formatting, encryption, and
compression.
3. Session Layer (Layer 5): Manages sessions, establishing, maintaining,
and terminating connections between applications.
4. Transport Layer (Layer 4): Ensures reliable data transfer (TCP/UDP),
segmentation, and flow control.
5. Network Layer (Layer 3): Logical addressing (IP) and routing (path
determination).
6. Data Link Layer (Layer 2): Physical addressing
(MAC), error detection, and frame sequencing.
7. Physical Layer (Layer 1): Transmits raw bits over
the physical medium (cables, Wi-Fi).