Computer Networks Detailed Notes
1. Definition of Computer Network
A Computer Network is a system of interconnected devices (computers, phones, printers, IoT gadgets) that commu
2. Types of Networks
- PAN (Personal Area Network): Coverage ~1–10 m; connects personal devices via Bluetooth.
- LAN (Local Area Network): Coverage building/room; links computers and devices within a confined area.
- MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): Coverage city/town; connects multiple LANs across a large area.
- WAN (Wide Area Network): Coverage country/global; connects LANs and MANs; the Internet is the largest WAN.
- VPN (Virtual Private Network): Secure overlay tunnel on existing networks.
3. Wired vs. Wireless Networks
- Wired: Ethernet cables (twisted-pair), coaxial, fiber-optic; high speed, low latency, secure; less mobility.
- Wireless: Wi-Fi (radio), Bluetooth, infrared; high mobility, prone to interference; requires encryption.
4. Network Users
- Home Users: Streaming, gaming, remote work.
- Businesses: File sharing, VoIP, cloud services.
- Educational Institutions: E-learning, resource labs.
- ISPs: Provide internet access.
- IoT Ecosystems: Smart homes, wearables, sensors.
5. Core Components of Networks
- NIC (Network Interface Card): Hardware enabling network connectivity.
- Hub: Broadcasts incoming data to all ports; basic repeater.
- Switch: Forwards frames to specific devices based on MAC addresses.
- Modem: Modulates/demodulates signals for ISP connection.
- Router: Routes IP packets between networks (LAN↔WAN).
6. Network Cables & Interference
- Twisted-Pair (UTP/STP): Copper pairs twisted to reduce crosstalk; ~100 m limit.
- Coaxial: Single copper core with shielding; moderate distance, good noise immunity.
- Fiber-Optic: Glass/plastic strands transmitting light; long distance, high bandwidth, immune to EMI.
- Interference: EMI/RFI from motors and electronics; mitigated by shielding and using fiber-optic.
7. Bandwidth & ISP
- Bandwidth: Maximum data rate a channel can carry (Mbps/Gbps).
- ISP (Internet Service Provider): Company that provides internet access (e.g., Jio, Airtel).
8. Servers vs. Clients
- Server: Hosts and serves resources (web, file, mail) continuously.
- Client: Requests and consumes resources (browsers, apps, devices).
9. Key Protocols
- HTTP/HTTPS (Ports 80/443): Stateless protocols for web communication (GET, POST).
- FTP (Ports 21/20): File transfer protocol for uploading/downloading files (active/passive modes).
- TCP/IP: IP handles packet routing; TCP ensures reliable, ordered delivery (three-way handshake).
- SMTP (Ports 25/587/465): Protocol for sending emails.
- POP3 (Ports 110/995): Downloads and deletes emails from server.
- IMAP (Ports 143/993): Manages and syncs emails on the server across devices.
10. Masala Mnemonic
“PAN whispers, LAN parties, MAN roams the city, WAN owns the world; NIC’s your invite, hub blasts, switch routes
