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computer network (4)

A computer network connects multiple devices to share data and resources using protocols over wired or wireless connections. Key components include nodes, networking devices, protocols, and network interface cards, which facilitate communication, resource sharing, and data accessibility. Networks can be classified by size (PAN, LAN, MAN, WAN, GAN), topology (bus, star, ring, mesh, tree, hybrid), architecture (peer-to-peer, client-server), and transmission medium (wired, wireless).

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3 views

computer network (4)

A computer network connects multiple devices to share data and resources using protocols over wired or wireless connections. Key components include nodes, networking devices, protocols, and network interface cards, which facilitate communication, resource sharing, and data accessibility. Networks can be classified by size (PAN, LAN, MAN, WAN, GAN), topology (bus, star, ring, mesh, tree, hybrid), architecture (peer-to-peer, client-server), and transmission medium (wired, wireless).

Uploaded by

kartikmaity507
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© © All Rights Reserved
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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ASSIGNMENT -1

Aim - Overview of computer network

Definition –

A computer network is a system where multiple computing devices (such as computers,


servers, smartphones, and IoT devices) are connected to share data and resources. These
devices communicate using network protocols over wired or wireless connections. A node is
any device connected to a network that can send, receive, or process data. Nodes are the
fundamental building blocks of a computer network.

Key components -

A computer network consists of several components that enable


communication between devices. Below are the essential components:

1. Nodes (Devices)

These are the devices connected to the network that send, receive, or process data.
Examples: Computers, smartphones, printers, servers, IoT devices.

2. Networking Devices

This help manage and direct network traffic.

 Router: Connects different networks (e.g., home to the internet).


 Switch: Connects multiple devices within a LAN.

 Modem: Converts digital signals for internet access.

 Hub: Broadcasts data to all devices in a network (less common today).

3. Protocols
Rules that define how data is transmitted and received over a network.
Examples: TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP, DNS, DHCP.

4. Network Interface Card (NIC)

A hardware component that allows devices to connect to a network. It can be wired


(Ethernet card) or wireless (Wi-Fi adapter).
Example: Every computer or mobile phone has a built-in NIC.

Why use a computer network?

Computer networks are used to enable communication, resource sharing,


and data transfer between devices. Here are some key reasons why computer networks are
essential

1. Communication
 Email, messaging, video calls, and VoIP allow users to stay connected.

 Social media and collaboration platforms enhance teamwork and productivity.

2. Resource Sharing
 Printers, scanners, and storage devices can be shared among multiple users.

3. Data Sharing & Accessibility


 Users can share files, documents, and multimedia instantly.

 Cloud computing allows access to data from anywhere with an internet connection.

4. Internet Access & Web Services


 Networks provide access to websites, online applications, and cloud storage.

5. Security & Centralized Management


 Firewalls, encryption, and authentication protect sensitive data.

 IT administrators can monitor and control access to resources.


Types of the network based on size:

Computer networks can be classified based on their size and geographical coverage. The
main types are:

1. Personal Area Network (PAN)


 Size: A few meters
 Use Case: Connects personal devices like smartphones, laptops, and
smartwatches.
 Example: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections between a phone and a smartwatch.

2. Local Area Network (LAN)


 Size: Within a building or small area (up to a few kilometres)
 Use Case: Connects computers and devices in homes, offices, and schools.
 Example: Wi-Fi or Ethernet network in a home or office.
3. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
 Size: Covers a city or large campus (up to 50 km)

 Use Case: Connects multiple LANs within a city using high-speed


infrastructure.

 Example: City-wide Wi-Fi or a university network spanning multiple buildings.

4. Wide Area Network (WAN)


 Size: Covers large geographical areas (country or worldwide)

 Use Case: Connects multiple LANs and MANs across long distances.

 Example: The Internet, corporate networks spanning multiple cities.

5. Global Area Network (GAN)


 Size: Worldwide coverage

 Use Case: Connects networks across the globe using satellite and fibre optics.
Network Topologies (Physical & Logical Structures):

Networks can also be structured based on topology, which defines how devices are
connected:

1. Bus Topology – All devices share a single communication line


(backbone).

2. Star Topology – Devices connect to a central hub or switch.


3. Ring Topology – Devices form a closed loop, passing data in one direction.
4. Mesh Topology – Every device connects directly to others, ensuring
redundancy.

5. Tree Topology – A hierarchical structure combining star and bus topologies.


6. Hybrid Topology – A mix of different topologies for flexibility and efficiency.
Types of a network based on structure:

Computer networks can be classified based on architecture, which defines how devices
interact and communicate. The main types are:

1. Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Architecture


 Structure: All devices (nodes) are equal and share resources directly.

 Characteristics:
o No central server; each device acts as both a client and a server.

o Easy to set up, low cost, and best for small networks.

o Harder to manage and scale as the number of devices grows.

 Examples:

o Home networks for file sharing.

2. Client-Server Architecture
 Structure: A central server provides services to multiple client devices.

 Characteristics:

o The server handles requests, stores data, and manages security.


o Scalable, efficient, and secure, but requires dedicated resources.

 Examples:

o Corporate networks where employees access files from a central server.

o Web applications where a browser (client) connects to a web server.

Types of a network based on transmission medium:

Computer networks can be classified based on the transmission


medium used for data communication. The two main types are wired networks and wireless
networks, each with different subcategories.

1. Wired Networks
These networks use physical cables (such as copper or fibre-optic cables) to transmit data.

a) Twisted Pair Cable Network


 Uses copper wires twisted together to reduce interference.
 Types:

1. Shielded Twisted Pair (STP): Better protection from interference.

2. Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP): Commonly used in Ethernet cables


(Cat5, Cat6, etc.).

3. Example: Ethernet LAN in offices and homes.

b) Coaxial Cable Network


1. Uses a central conductor surrounded by insulation and shielding.
2. Provides better resistance to interference than twisted pair
cables.
3. Example: Cable TV networks, older broadband internet
connections.

c) Fiber Optic Cable Network


Uses light signals instead of electrical signals for data transmission.

Advantages: Faster speeds and higher bandwidth. Less signal loss over long distances.
More secure and resistant to electromagnetic interference. Example: High-speed internet,
backbone networks in
large organizations.
2. Wireless Networks
These networks use electromagnetic waves (radio, microwave, infrared) for communication.

a) Radio Wave Network (Wi-Fi, Cellular, etc.)


 Uses radio waves to transmit data over short or long distances.

 Examples:

o Wi-Fi networks for home and office internet.

b) Microwave Network
 Uses high-frequency microwave signals for data transmission.

 Requires line-of-sight communication.

 Examples:

o Satellite communications

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