Network
Network
A network is a collection of interconnected devices (e.g., computers, servers, printers) that can
communicate with each other and share resources.
Uses of a Network
Resource Sharing: Allows sharing of devices, files, and applications.
Communication: Enables email, messaging, and video conferencing.
Data Management: Centralized storage for easy access and management.
Remote Access: Access data or systems from remote locations.
Network Types
1. Local Area Network (LAN):
o Limited to a small area (e.g., office, home).
o Typically uses Ethernet or Wi-Fi for high-speed data transfer.
2. Wide Area Network (WAN):
o Covers large areas like cities, countries, or continents.
o Uses public or private networks to interconnect devices.
3. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN):
o Larger than LAN but smaller than WAN.
o Covers a city or a campus area.
o
How Networks Are Structured
Client-Server: A central server provides services/resources to client devices.
Peer-to-Peer (P2P): Devices act as both servers and clients, sharing resources directly.
Wire-Based Media
Copper Cables: Includes Ethernet cables (Cat5, Cat6), used for local connections.
Fiber Optic Cables: High-speed data transmission using light signals, used in WANs and for
long-distance communication.
Network Hardware
Router: Connects different networks and directs data between them.
Switch: Connects devices within a LAN, managing data traffic.
Modem: Converts digital data into signals for internet access.
Access Point: Provides wireless connectivity to a network.
Network Protocols
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol): The standard for internet
communication, managing data transmission.
HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol): Protocol for transferring web pages.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol): Used for transferring files between systems.
DNS (Domain Name System): Converts domain names into IP addresses for routing.
Network
A network is a collection of interconnected devices (e.g., computers, servers, printers) that can
communicate with each other and share resources.
Uses of a Network
Resource Sharing: Allows sharing of devices, files, and applications.
Communication: Enables email, messaging, and video conferencing.
Data Management: Centralized storage for easy access and management.
Remote Access: Access data or systems from remote locations.
Network Types
1. Local Area Network (LAN):
o Limited to a small area (e.g., office, home).
o Typically uses Ethernet or Wi-Fi for high-speed data transfer.
2. Wide Area Network (WAN):
o Covers large areas like cities, countries, or continents.
o Uses public or private networks to interconnect devices.
3. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN):
o Larger than LAN but smaller than WAN.
o Covers a city or a campus area.
o
How Networks Are Structured
Client-Server: A central server provides services/resources to client devices.
Peer-to-Peer (P2P): Devices act as both servers and clients, sharing resources directly.
Wire-Based Media
Copper Cables: Includes Ethernet cables (Cat5, Cat6), used for local connections.
Fiber Optic Cables: High-speed data transmission using light signals, used in WANs and for
long-distance communication.
Network Hardware
Router: Connects different networks and directs data between them.
Switch: Connects devices within a LAN, managing data traffic.
Modem: Converts digital data into signals for internet access.
Access Point: Provides wireless connectivity to a network.
Network Protocols
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol): The standard for internet
communication, managing data transmission.
HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol): Protocol for transferring web pages.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol): Used for transferring files between systems.
DNS (Domain Name System): Converts domain names into IP addresses for routing.
