Computer networking involves organizing and linking a group of networks and devices in a way that enables seamless communication and resource sharing.
For instance, laptops and smartphones can access the internet because they connect to wireless modems and networks. Similarly, a laptop can print hard copies through a connected printer. Computer networking guides everything necessary to establish these connections.
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.