Study Notes: Computer Networks and Web Technologies
1. Types of Networks:
Type Description Example Image
Local Area Found in small geographic areas
Network (LAN) (e.g. homes, offices, library,
computer lab at school)
Metropolitan Covers a city or metropolitan
Area Network region
(MAN)
Wide Area Spans large geographical areas
Network (WAN) (e.g., the Internet)
Mobile Network Radio-based communication
networks provided by common
carriers (e.g., mobile phone
networks)
Overview of Mobile Networks:
Mobile networks have evolved significantly over the years:
• 2G (Second Generation): Allowed basic services like phone calls and SMS (text messages). Slow
data, used mainly for voice.
• 3G (Third Generation): Improved data speeds, introduced mobile internet, enabling users to
browse websites and send emails on their phones.
• 4G (Fourth Generation): Much faster internet speeds, enabling streaming videos, online gaming,
and better quality video calls.
• 5G (Fifth Generation): The latest technology, offering extremely fast internet, lower delays
(latency), and supports new technologies like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and
smart devices.
Each new generation improves speed, reliability, and the types of services your phone can use.
Wireless Technologies:
Technology Description Example Image
Bluetooth Short-range device connectivity (e.g., headphones)
Wi-Fi Wireless local network connectivity (e.g., home internet)
Hotspot Public Wi-Fi access points (e.g., coffee shops)
Levels of Privacy for each of the following network:
Level Description
Intranet Private network within an organization
Extranet Semi-private network, shared with external partners
Internet Public global network
2. Basic Components of a Network:
Transmission Media:
Media Type Example Use Example Image
Twisted pair cables Telephone lines traditional home phone connections.
Ethernet cables /network cables connecting
computers, routers, and switches within homes and
offices
Coaxial cables Cable TV
Fibre optic cables High-speed internet
Wireless (Infrared, Remote controls, long-distance communication, GPS -
Microwave, Satellite)
Network Devices:
Device Function
Switch Connects devices within a LAN
Router Directs data between networks
Modem Converts analog signals to digital signals (and vice
versa)
Network Interface Card (NIC)/Network Connects computers to networks
Adapter
3. Importance of Mobile Communication:
Mobile communication technologies are integral components of modern communication networks due to:
1. Accessibility and Mobility
o Allows users to communicate and access information anytime and anywhere.
o Essential for users who travel frequently or live in remote areas.
2. Connectivity and Inclusivity
o Expands internet access, bridging the digital divide in underserved areas.
o Enhances global connectivity, bringing communities closer.
3. Rapid Communication
o Enables instant messaging, real-time notifications, and quick dissemination of information.
o Critical during emergencies and disaster management.
4. Economic Impact
o Facilitates e-commerce and mobile banking, stimulating economic growth.
o Provides opportunities for innovation and new business models.
5. Scalability and Flexibility
o Easily scalable and adaptable to evolving technological demands, such as upgrades from 3G to
4G and 5G.
o Supports diverse devices and applications.
Suitability of Mobile Networks for Various Applications:
Application Suitability Examples and Benefits
Area
Education - Enables distance learning and virtual classrooms.
- Facilitates instant sharing of resources and collaborative tools.
- Allows learning continuity regardless of geographical constraints.
Commerce - Supports mobile banking, online transactions, and e-commerce.
- Provides secure payment gateways (e.g., mobile wallets, digital currencies).
- Enhances customer engagement through mobile marketing and personalized
advertising.
Journalism - Enables live reporting and rapid dissemination of news.
- Supports citizen journalism through video streaming and social media uploads.
- Allows real-time fact-checking and interactive audience engagement.
4. Key Web Technology Concepts:
Concept Description
World Wide Web (WWW) Collection of web pages
Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) Language for creating web pages
Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) Protocol for transferring web pages
Hyperlinks Clickable links connecting web pages
Web Server Stores and delivers web content
Web Page Individual document online
File Transfer Protocol (FTP) Transfer files between systems
Web Browser Software to access web pages (e.g., Chrome, Firefox)
Uniform Resource Locator (URL) Web address
Upload and Download Transferring files between client and server
Email Electronic mail communication
