Objective #11

 11. Determining general computer network concepts.

Principles of Networks:

• Definition:
  • A computer network is a collection of interconnected devices (such as computers, servers, routers, switches, etc.) that communicate and share resources.
  • Networks enable data exchange, resource sharing, and collaboration among users and devices.
• Benefits:
  • Resource Sharing: Networks allow sharing of hardware resources (e.g., printers, storage) and software resources (e.g., applications, databases).
  • Communication: Networks facilitate communication between users, devices, and systems, enabling collaboration and information exchange.
  • Scalability: Networks can be scaled up or down to accommodate changes in demand, organization size, or technological requirements.
  • Centralized Management: Centralized network management tools and protocols streamline administration and maintenance tasks.
  • Cost Savings: Networks can reduce costs by centralizing resources, enabling efficient use of hardware and software assets.

Types of Networks:

• LAN (Local Area Network):
  • A LAN is a network that spans a relatively small geographic area, such as a single building, office, or campus.
  • LANs typically use high-speed wired or wireless connections to interconnect devices.
• WAN (Wide Area Network):
  • A WAN is a network that spans a large geographic area, such as multiple cities, countries, or continents.
  • WANs use long-distance communication technologies, such as leased lines, fiber optics, or satellite links, to connect geographically dispersed locations.
• WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network):
  • A WLAN is a type of LAN that uses wireless communication technologies (such as Wi-Fi) to connect devices within a limited area.
  • WLANs eliminate the need for physical cables and offer flexibility in device placement and mobility.
• Peer-to-Peer:
  • Peer-to-peer (P2P) networks are decentralized networks where devices communicate directly with each other without the need for a central server.
  • P2P networks are often used for file sharing, distributed computing, and collaborative applications.
• Client/Server:
  • A client/server network architecture is based on the client/server model, where clients (end-user devices) request services or resources from centralized servers.
  • Servers provide resources such as files, applications, databases, or processing power, while clients access and utilize these resources.

Basic Concepts of Networks and Technologies:

• Bandwidth and Transmission of Data:
  • Bandwidth refers to the capacity of a network communication channel to transmit data, typically measured in bits per second (bps).
  • Higher bandwidth allows for faster data transmission rates, enabling quicker file transfers, smoother multimedia streaming, and responsive web browsing.
• Addressing IP (Internet Protocol):
  • IP addressing is the system used to assign unique numerical addresses to devices on a network, allowing them to communicate with each other.
  • IP addresses consist of a network portion and a host portion, and they are used for routing and identifying devices within a network.
• DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol):
  • DHCP is a network protocol used to dynamically assign IP addresses and other network configuration parameters (such as subnet masks, default gateways, DNS servers) to devices on a network.
  • DHCP simplifies network administration by automating the IP address assignment process and reducing the risk of conflicts.

Internet Protocols and Applications:

• ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol):
  • ICMP is a network protocol used to send error messages and operational information between devices on a network.
  • ICMP messages are used for tasks such as troubleshooting network connectivity issues, testing network reachability, and diagnosing network problems.

Physical Components of a Network:

• Characteristic of Network Cables:
  • Network cables are physical media used to transmit data signals between devices in a network.
  • Characteristics of network cables include transmission speed, maximum length, immunity to interference, and connector types.
  • Common types of network cables include twisted pair cables (e.g., Cat5e, Cat6), coaxial cables, and fiber optic cables.
  • Network cables may use different connector types such as RJ45 connectors (for Ethernet), BNC connectors (for coaxial), and SC or LC connectors (for fiber optic).