What is network?

• A network is a system of interconnected devices or nodes that communicate and

share data, resources, and services using established protocols. For example, the
Internet is a vast network that connects millions of computers and servers
worldwide, allowing people to access websites, send emails, and stream videos.
Uses of Networks

1.Communication – Enables email, messaging, video calls, and social media interactions (e.g.,
WhatsApp, Zoom).
2.Data Sharing – Allows users to share files, documents, and databases across devices (e.g.,
Google Drive, Dropbox).
3.Resource Sharing – Multiple devices can share printers, storage, and internet connections.
4.Remote Access – Users can access systems and work remotely via VPNs and cloud
computing.
5.Entertainment & Media – Streaming platforms (e.g., Netflix, YouTube) rely on networks for
content delivery.
6.E-Commerce & Online Transactions – Online shopping, banking, and payment systems
operate over networks.
7.Internet of Things (IoT) – Smart devices (e.g., smart homes, connected cars) communicate
via networks.
8.Security & Surveillance – CCTV and security systems transmit data over networks for
remote monitoring.
 Types of network
Network classification refers to the process of categorizing computer networks based on specific criteria
such as geographical coverage, functionality, transmission technology, and architecture. This classification
helps in understanding the structure, purpose, and communication methods of different types of
networks.
LAN (Local Area Network)
A network that connects computers and devices within a small geographical area, such as a home, office, or school.
Example: Wi-Fi in a building or a school computer lab.

CAN (Campus Area Network)

A network that interconnects multiple buildings within a campus, such as a university, corporate office, or military base

Example: A university network connecting different departments and libraries.

MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)
A network that spans a city or a large campus, connecting multiple LANs within a metropolitan area.
Example: City-wide Wi-Fi networks or university networks across different campuses

WAN (Wide Area Network)

A large network that connects multiple LANs and MANs across cities, countries, or even globally.
Example: The Internet, which connects networks worldwide.
Network topology
Topology refers to the arrangement of devices (nodes) in a computer network,
including how they are connected and how data flows between them. Network
topology plays a crucial role in determining performance, efficiency, and fault
tolerance.

Types of Network Topologies

1. Bus topology
2. Ring topology
3. Star topology
1. Bus Topology
 All devices are connected to a single central cable (the "bus").
 Data travels in both directions along the cable until it reaches its
destination. backbone

✅ Advantages:
✔ Cost-effective and easy to set up.
✔ Requires less cable than other topologies.
❌ Disadvantages:
✖ If the central cable fails, the whole network goes down.
✖ Performance decreases as more devices are added.
2. Ring Topology
•Devices are connected in a circular manner, where each device has exactly two
neighbors.
•Data travels in one direction (unidirectional) or both directions (bidirectional).
•A token-passing mechanism is used to avoid data collisions.

✅ Advantages:
✔ No data collisions due to token passing.
✔ Equal access to network resources.
❌ Disadvantages:
✖ A single device failure can break the network unless a dual ring is used.
✖ Slower compared to other topologies.
📌 Example: Used in some fiber-optic networks and older LAN setups.
3. Star Topology

•All devices are connected to a central hub or switch.

•The hub/switch manages data transmission between devices.

Hub/switch

✅ Advantages:
✔ Highly reliable—if one device fails, the network continues to work.
✔ Easy to install and expand.
✔ Centralized management allows for better performance monitoring.
❌ Disadvantages:
✖ If the central hub/switch fails, the entire network is down.
✖ Requires more cables than a bus topology.
Network Structure
A network structure refers to the way computers, devices, and resources are organized
and managed within a network. It defines how devices communicate, share data, and
interact with each other.

1. Workgroup (Peer-to-Peer Network)

A peer-to-peer (P2P) network/peer to peer is a decentralized model where all computers
(peers) share resources directly without a central server. Each device acts as both a client
and a server. In this network where each computer is independent and manages its own
settings and security.

2. Domain (Client-Server Network)

A client-server network/domain is a model where a central server provides resources,
services, and security to multiple clients (computers or devices). The server manages
data, user authentication, and network policies.
Feature Workgroup Domain
Decentralized (each PC Centralized (server
Management
manages itself) manages all PCs)

Separate accounts on Single login for all domain

User Login
each computer computers

Advanced security with

Security Basic security per device
group policies

Suitable for small Suitable for large

Scalability
networks organizations
Cost Low (no need for a server) Higher (requires a server)
Network Components
A computer network consists of various hardware and software components that
enable communication and data transfer.
1. Network Interface Card (NIC) / LAN Card

A Network Interface Card (NIC), also called a LAN card, is a hardware component that
allows a computer to connect to a network. It can be wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi).
✅ Function:
•Provides a physical connection between the computer and the network.
•Converts data into signals for transmission.
📌 Example: Ethernet card in desktops or built-in Wi-Fi adapters in laptops.
1. Network Interface Card (NIC) / LAN Card

Boot ROM
Act IC
PCI

Mac id
Link
Rj45 port
Types of NIC
🔸 Wired NIC (Ethernet NIC) – Uses an RJ45 port for a stable wired connection.
🔸 Wireless NIC (Wi-Fi Adapter) – Connects via Wi-Fi signals without cables.
🔸 Fiber Optic NIC – Uses fibre optic cables for ultra-fast data transmission.
🔸 USB NIC – External adapter connected via USB for quick network access.
🔸 PCI/PCIe NIC – Installed inside a PC via PCI/PCIe slot for high-speed networking

Components of NIC
🔸 MAC Address –is a unique identifier assigned to a network interface card (NIC). It is a
12-digit hexadecimal number (48-bit) used to identify devices on a network.
🔸 Ethernet Port (RJ45) – Used for wired connections. / BNC
🔸 Network Processor (Chipset) – Handles data transmission.
🔸 Bus Interface (PCIe/USB/Thunderbolt) – Connects NIC to the motherboard.
🔸 ROM/Firmware – Stores NIC settings and drivers and Boot ROM IC in a NIC card is crucial
for network booting, OS deployment, and managing diskless workstations,
🔸 LED Indicators (LINK & ACT) – Shows connection and data activity / red
NIC Manufacturers
🔸 Intel – High-performance PCIe NICs.
🔸 Realtek – Budget-friendly Ethernet adapters.
🔸 Broadcom – Enterprise-grade networking.
🔸 TP-Link – Consumer-grade Ethernet & Wi-Fi NICs.
🔸 Asus – Gaming-focused NICs.
🔸 D-Link – Affordable home & office NICs.

LINK & ACT LEDs (Network Indicators)

💡 LINK (Solid ON) – Connection established.
💡 ACT (Blinking) – Data transmission in progress.
💡 No Light – No network connection detected.
 OTHER NETWORK COMPONENTS
Data
Device Function Ports Intelligent? Use Case
Transmission
Sends data to all
Broadcasts data Small networks
Hub 4-24 ❌ No devices (no
to all devices. (obsolete).
filtering).

Forwards data Sends data only to LAN networks

Switch only to the 4-48 ✅ Yes the correct device (home, offices,
intended device. (MAC-based). data centers).

Connects to ISP Internet

Converts analog
Modem for internet 1-2 ✅ Yes connection (DSL,
↔ digital signals.
access. Cable, Fiber).

Directs traffic Routes data

Home/Office
between between
Router 2-8 ✅ Yes internet sharing,
networks (LAN ↔ networks (IP-
Wi-Fi.
WAN). based).
Network cables
Connector
cable Type Full Form Category Max Speed Max Distance Best Use Manufacturers
Type
Belden,
Cable TV, CommScope,
Coaxial Cable - RG6, RG59 BNC, F-type Up to 1 Gbps 500m Internet (ISP), Times
CCTV Microwave,
Amphenol
Belden,molex,
UTP Cat5e, Cat6,
Unshielded 1 Gbps - 40 LAN (Home, CommScope,
(Unshielded Cat6a, Cat7, RJ45 100m
Twisted Pair Gbps Office, Schools) Panduit, D-
Twisted Pair) Cat8
Link, Nexans
Siemon,
Industrial/High Leviton,
STP (Shielded Shielded Cat6, Cat6a, 1 Gbps - 40
RJ45 100m -interference Schneider
Twisted Pair) Twisted Pair Cat7, Cat8 Gbps
areas Electric,
CommScope

High-speed
Corning, OFS,
Single-mode internet, Data
10 Gbps - 100 Prysmian,
Fiber Optic - (SMF), Multi- SC, LC, ST 10 km+ Centers, Long-
Gbps Fujikura,
mode (MMF) Distance
CommScope
Networks
Ethernet Cable Max Data Transfer Speed Max Bandwidth

Cat6 10 Gbps 250 MHz

Cat6a 10 Gbps 500 MHz

Cat7 10 Gbps 600 MHz

Cat8 25-40 Gbps 2000 MHz

 Cable crimping
1. Straight
2. Cross over
3. Roll over
 Cable crimping
A straight-through cable is used to connect different devices, such as a PC to a
switch

Side 1 Side 2
Orange-White Orange-White
or router.
Orange Orange
Green-White Green-White
Blue Blue
Blue-White Blue-White
Green Green
Brown-White Brown-White
Brown Brown
Pc to pc/switch to switch 1-3
2-6
Cross-over

Side 1 Side 2
Orange-White Green-White
Orange Green
Green-White Orange-White
Blue Blue
Blue-White Blue-White
Green Orange
Brown-White Brown-White
Brown Brown
Pc to router (rolled over)

Side 1 Side 2
Orange-White Brown
Orange Brown-white
Green-White Green
Blue Blue-white
Blue-White Blue
Green Green-white
Brown-White Orange
Brown Orange-white
Punching

Chip
manufactures

Real tech,edimax,dax,devicom,3 com,d link