Computer networking is the process of structuring and securely connecting multiple networks and smart devices to facilitate efficient communication and resource sharing.
For example, laptops and smartphones can easily access the internet by connecting to wireless modems and networks.
Computer Networking : Terms and Concepts.
- Node : Any device that can send, receive, or forward information on the network. ( eg. computer, mobile phone, printer, switch or router)
- Network Interface Card ( NIC ) : A device having MAC address & unique identifier,
- MAC Address and creates physical connection to the network.
- Media Access Controller ( MAC Address) : It is a unique identifier assigned to NIC by its manufacturer.
- Internet Protocol ( IP Address ): It is a unique identification assigned by the network according to its own rules.
- Router : A hardware device that routes data from one network to another.
- Switch : A network device that connects devices on a network.
- Packet : it’s information sent over the network broken into smaller pieces.
- Bandwidth : It is the maximum amount of data that can be sent over network connection in a given time.
- Protocol : It is a set of rules that dictates how data is transferred on a network.
- Ethernet : It is most common protocol for Local Area Networks ( LAN )
- Wi-Fi : It is a protocol for wireless networking.
- Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP) : The fundamental protocol that governs data transfer over the network.
- Firewall : It is a network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing traffic network traffic.
- Virtual Private Network ( VPN ) : It is a private network that allows users to exchange data over a public network.
- Network Topology : It is a structure that defines how different devices are arranged in a network.
- ISP : It is a company that provides Internet access.
Types of Computer Networks
- Personal Area Network ( PAN ) : It is a basic network type that typically covers small areas like a room and is used to connect personal devices such as computers, phones, printers and gaming consoles. It can have both wired and wireless connections.
- Local Area Network ( LAN ) : It is bigger than PAN but is limited to a building, office or school and is controlled by a single person or organization.
- Wireless Local Area Network ( WLAN ) : It is similar to LAN but here the devices are connected wirelessly.
- Metropolitan Area Network ( MAN ) : It is used to connect multiple LANs within a specific geographical area, such as a campus or a city.
- Wide Area Network ( WAN ) : It spans large geographical areas such as a city, country and the whole world. The Internet is a WAN network.
- Virtual Private Network ( VPN ) : It is used to extend private networks across public networks allowing users to exchange data across shared networks.
Principle Steps in Computer Networking :
- Establishing Networks: Connect devices physically (e.g., Ethernet) or wirelessly (e.g., Wi-Fi).
- Communication Protocols: Devices communicate using protocols like HTTP, FTP, and TCP/IP.
- Data Transmission: Devices exchange data in small packets.
- Routing: Guide data exchange through routers and switches.
- Data Receipt and Confirmation: Receivers confirm data receipt to senders.