COMPUTER NETWORKS

1. Introduction

 What is a Computer Network?

o A computer network is a group of two or more computers and other
devices that are connected to share resources, such as data, printers, or
internet access. Networks can be connected through wired or wireless
connections.
o The purpose of a computer network is to enable communication and
resource sharing between connected devices.
 Components of a Network:
o Computers/Devices: The nodes that are part of the network (e.g.,
computers, servers, smartphones).
o Transmission Media: The physical medium that carries data (e.g.,
cables, Wi-Fi signals).
o Network Interface: The device used to connect computers to the network
(e.g., Network Interface Cards - NIC).

2. Uses of Computer Networks

 Resource Sharing: Computer networks allow multiple users to share resources

such as printers, files, and internet connections.
 Communication: Networks enable communication through emails, instant
messaging, video calls, and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol).
 Data Sharing: Users can easily share and access files, applications, and
databases across different devices connected to the same network.
 Entertainment: Networks allow access to streaming services, online gaming,
and other multimedia content.
 Remote Access: Allows users to access their computers or files from remote
locations through Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).

3. Elementary Terminology of Networking

 Node: A device or computer that is connected to a network. Each node has a

unique identifier (IP address).
 Link: The connection between two devices in a network, through which data is
transmitted.
 Bandwidth: The capacity of the network to transfer data, usually measured in
bits per second (bps).
  IP Address: A unique address assigned to each device on the network that
identifies it for communication.
 Router: A device that forwards data packets between different networks.
 Switch: A network device that connects multiple devices in a LAN (Local Area
Network) and directs data to the correct device.

4. Types of Computer Networks

There are different types of computer networks, based on their size, geographical area,
and purpose:

 LAN (Local Area Network):

o A LAN connects devices within a small area, such as a home, office, or
school.
o It typically covers a limited geographical area (e.g., a room or building).
o Example: Computers connected in a classroom or office.
 WAN (Wide Area Network):
o A WAN connects devices spread over a large geographical area, such as
cities or countries.
o It can connect multiple LANs and requires leased communication lines.
o Example: The internet is the largest WAN.
 MAN (Metropolitan Area Network):
o A MAN connects devices in a larger area than a LAN but smaller than a
WAN, typically covering a city.
o It is used by organizations to connect offices within a city or large campus.
o Example: A university network connecting different campuses within a city.
 PAN (Personal Area Network):
o A PAN connects devices within a very short range (usually within a room
or personal space).
o Examples include Bluetooth devices, such as connecting a smartphone to
a wireless speaker.
 VPN (Virtual Private Network):
o A VPN allows secure communication over the internet, enabling users to
access a network remotely by encrypting data and hiding the user's IP
address.
o Used to protect sensitive information and ensure privacy when accessing
public networks.

5. Topology

 What is Network Topology?

 o Network topology refers to the arrangement or layout of devices in a
network, and how they are connected.
o There are several types of topologies:
o Bus Topology:
 All devices are connected to a single central cable (the "bus").
 It is simple and inexpensive but can be slow and less reliable with
too many devices.
o Star Topology:
 All devices are connected to a central device, usually a switch or
hub.
 It is efficient and easy to manage but if the central device fails, the
whole network goes down.
o Ring Topology:
 Devices are connected in a circular fashion, where data travels in
one direction.
 If one device or connection fails, it can disrupt the entire network.
o Mesh Topology:
 Each device is connected to every other device in the network.
 It provides redundancy and reliability but can be complex and
expensive to set up.
o Hybrid Topology:
 A combination of different topologies to meet the needs of a larger
network.

6. Communication Devices of Computer

 Modem: A device that converts digital data from a computer into an analog
signal that can travel over telephone lines or cable systems (and vice versa).
 Router: A device that directs data packets between networks and devices. It
helps in managing traffic and ensuring the data reaches the correct destination.
 Switch: A device used to connect multiple devices in a local area network (LAN)
and ensures that data is sent only to the correct device.
 Hub: A basic device used to connect multiple devices in a LAN. Unlike a switch,
a hub sends data to all connected devices, which can cause network congestion.

7. Client-Server Concept

 What is the Client-Server Model?

o The client-server model is a network architecture where one device (the
server) provides resources or services, and other devices (the clients)
request and access these resources.
 o The server is typically a powerful computer or software that manages
resources like databases, files, or websites. The clients are devices (e.g.,
computers, smartphones) that request data or services from the server.
 Examples of Client-Server Communication:
o When you visit a website, your browser (client) sends a request to the web
server to load the page.
o When you use an email service, your email application (client) sends
requests to the mail server to send or receive messages.

8. Network Protocols

 What is a Network Protocol?

o A network protocol is a set of rules that define how data is transmitted
and received over a network. It ensures that devices can communicate
with each other effectively.
 Common Network Protocols:
o TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol):
 The fundamental protocol suite used for communication over the
internet. TCP ensures reliable delivery of data, while IP handles
addressing and routing.
o HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol):
 Used for transferring web pages and data between web browsers
and web servers.
o FTP (File Transfer Protocol):
 Used for transferring files between a client and a server over the
network.
o SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol):
 Used for sending emails from a client to a server and between mail
servers.
o DNS (Domain Name System):
 Translates domain names (like www.example.com) into IP
addresses that computers can understand.

Conclusion:

Computer networks play an essential role in our daily lives by enabling communication,
resource sharing, and providing internet access. By understanding the types of
networks, topologies, communication devices, and protocols, we can better understand
how data travels between computers and how modern networks function.
Quick Tip: Explore real-life networks around you, like school or office networks, to
understand how they are set up and the devices that are used. This practical knowledge
will deepen your understanding of how computer networks work!