NOTES ON COMPUTER NETWORK

What is a Computer Network?

A computer network is a collection of interconnected devices that communicate with each

other to share resources, such as data, applications, and hardware. These devices can include
computers, servers, routers, switches, and other network-enabled devices. Networks can be
classified based on their size, scope, and purpose.

Types of Computer Networks

1. Local Area Network (LAN)

 Definition: A LAN is a network that covers a small geographic area, typically a

single building or a group of buildings.
 Characteristics:
o High data transfer rates.
o Limited size (usually within a few kilometers).
o Often used in homes, offices, and schools.
 Example: An office network connecting computers and printers within the same
building.

2. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

 Definition: A MAN spans a larger geographic area than a LAN but is smaller than a
WAN, typically covering a city or a large campus.
 Characteristics:
o Connects multiple LANs.
o Moderate data transfer rates (faster than WAN but slower than LAN).
o Used by organizations to connect multiple branches within a city.
 Example: A network connecting several university campuses within a city.

3. Wide Area Network (WAN)

 Definition: A WAN covers a broad area, potentially spanning countries or continents.

 Characteristics:
o Connects multiple MANs or LANs.
o Lower data transfer rates compared to LANs and MANs.
o Often relies on leased telecommunication lines.
 Example: The Internet is the largest WAN, connecting millions of networks globally.

Benefits of Computer Networks

1. Resource Sharing: Networks allow multiple users to share resources such as printers,
storage devices, and applications, reducing costs and improving efficiency.
2. Communication: Networks enable easy communication through emails, instant
messaging, and video conferencing, facilitating collaboration among users.
 3. Centralized Data Management: Data can be stored on central servers, which
simplifies management and enhances security through controlled access.
4. Scalability: Networks can be easily expanded by adding new devices or connections
without significant disruption.
5. Remote Access: Users can access network resources from remote locations, enabling
telecommuting and flexibility in work arrangements.
6. Cost Efficiency: Sharing resources reduces the need for duplicate equipment, leading
to lower overall costs for businesses and organizations.

INTRANET AND EXTRANET

Intranet

An intranet is a private network that is used within an organization. It is designed to

facilitate communication, collaboration, and information sharing among employees. Intranets
typically use web technologies to provide a user-friendly interface, allowing users to access
company resources, documents, and applications securely.

Characteristics of Intranet:

 Restricted Access: Only authorized users within the organization can access the
intranet.
 Internal Communication: Supports internal messaging, forums, and collaboration
tools.
 Resource Sharing: Central repository for documents, policies, and procedures.
 Customization: Can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the organization.

Extranet

An extranet is an extension of an intranet that allows controlled access to specific external

users, such as business partners, suppliers, or customers. It provides a way to share
information and collaborate with external parties while maintaining security and privacy.

Characteristics of Extranet:

 Controlled Access: Access is granted to specific external users, often requiring login
credentials.
 Collaboration: Facilitates joint projects and communication with external
stakeholders.
 Integration: Can integrate with external systems for smoother data exchange.
 Security: Strong security measures are implemented to protect sensitive information.

In summary, an intranet is a private network for internal use, while an extranet extends access
to select external users, enabling collaboration and information sharing beyond the
organization.
INTERNET

What is the Internet?

The Internet is a global network of interconnected computers that communicate using

standardized protocols. It allows users to access and share information, services, and
resources across vast distances. The Internet supports a wide range of applications, including
email, social media, online gaming, and web browsing.

Benefits of the Internet

1. Information Access: Provides vast amounts of information on virtually any topic,

easily accessible at any time.
2. Communication: Facilitates instant communication through email, messaging apps,
and video conferencing.
3. Social Networking: Connects people worldwide, enabling social interaction and
community building.
4. E-commerce: Supports online shopping and business transactions, making it easier to
buy and sell goods and services.
5. Education: Offers access to online courses, tutorials, and educational resources,
enhancing learning opportunities.
6. Entertainment: Provides access to streaming services, games, and multimedia
content.

Key Terms in Internet Technology

1. URL (Uniform Resource Locator)

A URL is the address used to access a specific resource on the Internet. It specifies the
location of a resource and the protocol used to retrieve it (e.g., HTTP, HTTPS).

Example: https://www.example.com/page

2. Browser

A browser is a software application that allows users to access and navigate the Internet. It
interprets HTML and displays web pages, enabling users to interact with online content.

Popular Browsers: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, Microsoft Edge.

HTML (Hypertext Markup Language) is the standard markup language used to create and
design web pages.

3. Website

A website is a collection of related web pages hosted on a server and accessible via the
Internet. Websites can serve various purposes, such as providing information, selling
products, or offering services.

Example: www.example.com is a website that may contain multiple web pages.

4. Web Page

A web page is a single document on the Internet that is typically written in HTML. It can
contain text, images, videos, and links to other web pages.

Example: An article or a product description on a website.

5. Search Engine

A search engine is a tool that allows users to search for information on the Internet by
entering keywords or phrases. It indexes web pages and returns relevant results based on the
user's query. Popular Search Engines: Google, Bing, Yahoo.

TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) is a set of communication

protocols used for the Internet and similar networks. It governs how data is transmitted over
the network and ensures that messages are delivered accurately and in the correct order.

What is WWW?

WWW (World Wide Web) is a system of interlinked hypertext documents accessed via the
Internet. It allows users to view and navigate web pages using web browsers.

What is HTTP?

HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is the protocol used for transmitting hypertext over the
Internet. It defines how messages are formatted and transmitted, allowing web browsers and
servers to communicate.

What is an IP Address?

An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a unique numerical label assigned to each device
connected to a network. It serves two main purposes: identifying the device and providing its
location on the network.

E-mail

What is E-mail?
E-mail (electronic mail) is a method of exchanging digital messages over the Internet. It
allows users to send and receive messages, documents, and other files quickly and efficiently.

Features of E-mail

1. Subject

 Definition: The subject line is a brief summary of the email's content.

 Purpose: It helps the recipient understand the main topic of the email at a glance,
making it easier to prioritize and organize emails.

2. CC (Carbon Copy)

 Definition: CC allows the sender to send a copy of the email to additional recipients.
 Purpose: Recipients in the CC field can see who else received the email, making it
useful for keeping others informed.

3. BCC (Blind Carbon Copy)

 Definition: BCC allows the sender to send a copy of the email to additional recipients
without revealing their addresses to others.
 Purpose: It protects the privacy of recipients and is useful for sending bulk emails
without disclosing all email addresses.

4. Address Bar

 Definition: The address bar is where the sender enters the recipient's email address.
 Purpose: It specifies the destination for the email and can include multiple addresses
for CC and BCC fields.

Benefits of E-mail Over Traditional Mail

1. Speed: E-mails are delivered almost instantly, whereas traditional mail can take days
or even weeks to arrive.
2. Cost-Effective: Sending e-mails is generally free, while traditional mail incurs
postage costs.
3. Attachments: E-mails allow users to send documents, images, and other files quickly
and easily, without the need for physical copies.
4. Organization: E-mail clients provide tools for organizing messages through folders,
labels, and search functions, making it easier to manage communications.
5. Accessibility: E-mails can be accessed from various devices (computers,
smartphones, tablets) and locations, as long as there is an Internet connection.
6. Environmentally Friendly: E-mails reduce the need for paper, contributing to less
waste and a smaller carbon footprint.
7. Easy Communication: E-mails can include links, multimedia content, and rich
formatting options, enhancing communication compared to plain letters.