INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER NETWORKS
INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT
MD 1-HAPPY FANUEL DAUD(CUHAS)
WHAT IS A COMPUTER NETWORKS ?
• A computer network is a system of interconnected computing devices that share
resources and information .It allows computers to communicate with each
other ,exchange data ,and collaborate on tasks .
• A network connection between these devices can be established using cable or
wireless media(WI-FI)
• Resources which are shared by computer network includes ;files ,internet
connection ,printers ,or applications.
Types of computer networks.
• Computer networks are categorized by their size and purpose ,ranging from small ,personal networks .
• i)Based on size includes;
• Personal Area Network (PAN)-Connects devices around a single person ,like smartphone with a Bluetooth
headset.
• Local Area Network (LAN)-connects devices with a limited area,such as an office building or a home.
• Campus Area Network(CAN)-Connects multiple building with a limited area like university campus.
• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)-connects multiple LANs within a city or metropolitan area like government
buildings with a city.
• Wide Area Network (WAN)-connects networks across a large geographical areas like a country or the globe.
• Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)-uses radio waves instead of cables to connect devices in LAN
• ii)Based on purposes
• Virtual Private Network (VPN)-creates a secure ,encrypted connection over a public network (like the internet)
to access a private network.
• Storage Area Network (SAN)-Provides high speed access to storage devices ,often used in data centers.
• Cloud Network –A network that delivers services and resources over the internet ,often hosted by third –party
providers.
Network topologies
Network topologies refer to the arrangement of the elements of a communication
network.
-Network topology can be used to define or describe the arrangement of various types of
telecommunication networks ,including command and control radio metworks,indurstrial
fieldbusses and computer networks.
TYPES OF NETWORK TOPOLOGIES.
1.Star topology-all devices connect to a central hub or switch,easy to manage and
troubleshoot.Also if the hub fals ,the whole network goes down .
2.Bus topology-all devices share a single communication line ,cheap and easy to
install.Perfomance decreases as more devices are added.
3.Ring Topology-devices are connected in a circular fashion ,data travels in one direction
and failure in one devices affect the whole network.
4.Mesh topology-every device is connected to every other device and very reliable ,but
expensive and complex
Network devices.
• Network devices are hard-ware and software componets that enable communication
between devices on a computer network .They facilitate data
transmission ,reception,and management ,ensuring efficient interaction between
devices .
TYPES OF NETWORK DEVICES
1.Router-connects different networks (eg.your home network to the internet) and directs
data packets to their destination.
2,Switch- connects multiple devices within the same network and sends ony data to the
intended device improving speed .
3.Hub-connects devices in a LAN and broadcasts data to all connected devices .
4.Modem-connects a network to the internet via telephone or cable lines and converts
digital signal to analog and vice versa.
5.Access point (AP)-Allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network ,commonly
used in WI-FI networks.
Wired vs wireless computer network.
WIRED NETWORK.
-Uses physical cables (eg.Ethernet).
-Offers faster and more stable connection.
-More secure from unauthorized access.
-Installation can be expensive and complex.
WIRELESS NETWORK .
-Uses WI-FI or radio radios.
-Easier to set up and allows mobility.
-Connection can be less stable or slower .
-Requires security features like passwords and encryption.
Internet vs intranet
INTERNET.
-A global network that connects millions of computers waorldwide.
-Publicity accessible by anyone with an internet connection.
-Used for browsing ,email,social media ,etc.
-Example :Google,YouTube,Facebook.
INTRANET.
-A private network used within an organization .
-Acesss is restricted to authorized users only .
-Used to share internal documents ,systems ,and information.
Example:University student portal or hospital internal system.
Network protocols
NETWORK PROTOCOLS
Are rules that define how data is sent, received and interpreted over a network .
COMMON PROTOCOLS:
1.TCP/IP(Transmission Control Protocol/internet Protocol)
-The foundation of internet communication .
-Ensures data is sent and received correctly.
2.HTTP(HyperText Transfer Protocol)
-Used for accessing web pages .
-Transfer data from web servers to browsers.
3. HTTPS(HTTP Secure).
-A secure version of HTTP using encryption.
-Common in online banking,emails,and shopping.
IMPORTANCE OF NETWORKING
IMPORTANCE OF NETWORKING.
1.Resources sharing
-Users can share printers ,files,and internet connection .
2.Communication.
-Enables emails ,video calls ,messaging and online meetings .
3.Data storage and backup
-Centralized storage helps with easy access and data backup.
4.Remove Access.
-Access information or systems from anywhere.
5.Cost Efficiency.
-Reduces hardware costs by sharing resources.
conclusion
In conclusion,computer networks are essentials for connecting devices and enabling
communication ,collaboration and resouces sharing.
-They facilitate various forms of digital communication ,from emails and instant
messaging to video calls and streaming.
