Computer Networks

Introduction

Jacek Mochyla (MA, MBA)

Lecture 1
Icebreaker & Inspiration

Computer Networking by Groundlings Originals

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNU5fx6ypg0
Introductory to Computer Networks
Course objectives

Understanding of key concepts and terminology

Understanding of network architecture

Knowledge of protocols and standards

Configuration and management of network devices

Basics of network design

Understanding the basics of network security, including attack methods,

protection, access management, and data security

Troubleshooting in networks

Analysis and evaluation of network performance

Updating and developing knowledge including new trends

Creativity and problem-solving skills

Enhancing communication and collaboration skills

“Personifying” computer networks
"A computer network is a community where various devices communicate with each
other, sharing information and collaborating to achieve a common goal."

"Routers and switches in networks are like guardians that direct data traffic and ensure
that information reaches where it is needed."

"A firewall is a secure doorman in the world of computer networks, ensuring that only
authorized data can pass through the gate."

"Communication protocols are the language that devices in the network use to
communicate with each other, like people using a common language to understand one
another."

"A computer network is like a complex nervous system of an organization, connecting

different parts of the body and enabling the flow of information."

"Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are secret corridors or tunnels in the network that
provide privacy and security for communication, like secret deliveries in a community of
spies."

"Attacks on computer networks are like attempts at break-ins or acts of war, where the
network's defense systems must protect against intruders."
What is a computer network?

Computer networks are collections of connected computers and

other devices that enable the exchange of data and resources.

Computers in a network can be connected using cables (e.g.,

Ethernet cables) or wirelessly (e.g., via Wi-Fi).

Computer networks allow devices to communicate, share

resources, access the Internet, and perform many other tasks.
And why they are so important?
Resource sharing: Networks enable the sharing of files, printers, peripheral devices, and other
resources. This allows for efficient work and resource savings.

Communication: Networks facilitate communication between people through email, messaging apps,
video conferences, and many other applications. This simplifies remote collaboration. In short, computer
networks are an
Internet access: The Internet is the largest network in the world. Computer networks provide access
to vast amounts of information, entertainment, and online resources.
essential part of
the modern world,
Efficiency and productivity: In organizations, computer networks help manage data and business facilitating
processes, leading to greater efficiency and productivity.
communication,
Security: Computer networks allow the implementation of security measures, such as firewalls and collaboration,
antivirus solutions, which are crucial in today's digital world. access to
Technological development: Computer networks are an integral part of technological progress. They
resources, and
support the growing telecommunications infrastructure, enabling new services and innovations. enabling many
aspects of our
Access to remote resources: Through computer networks, remote access to resources and services
is possible, which is essential for remote work and mobility.
lives. They are
crucial in today's
Entertainment and social media: Computer networks provide access to entertainment, such as digital and
streaming movies, music, and games, as well as participation in social media.
technological era.
Research and education: Networks support education, enabling access to educational and scientific
materials and facilitating communication between researchers and students.

Easy access to information: Computer networks allow quick and easy access to information, which
is indispensable in daily life and work.
The evolution

The evolution of networks since the early days of the internet

has been transformative, with significant milestones that
have shaped the digital landscape.
The ARPANET Era (1960s-1970s)
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Tpb8PoecXV4

Origin: The origins of the internet date back to the late 1960s with
ARPANET (Advanced Research Projects Agency Network), a project by
the U.S. Department of Defense. ARPANET was the first operational
packet-switching network, which laid the foundation for modern
networking.

Purpose: Initially, it was designed to allow researchers and military

personnel to communicate and share data between computers across
different locations.

Milestone: In 1969, ARPANET established its first connection between

UCLA and Stanford, marking the birth of network-based communication.
Expansion and Protocol Development (1970s-1980s)
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Nc49sgd5Utc

TCP/IP Protocol: In the late 1970s, the development of the

Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) standardized
how data is transmitted across networks. It became the foundational
protocol for the internet and is still in use today.

Email and File Sharing: During this era, early applications such as
email (introduced in the 1970s) began to show how networks could be
used for communication. FTP (File Transfer Protocol) allowed the
sharing of files between systems.

Networks Grow: By the late 1980s, several academic and

governmental networks had emerged, including CSNET and NSFNET,
which helped connect universities and research institutions globally.
The World Wide Web and Commercialization (1990s)

WWW Creation: In 1989-1990, Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide

Web (WWW), which introduced the concept of web pages and
hyperlinks, making the internet more user-friendly. This was a
significant leap from the previously text-based internet.

Browser Revolution: The first web browser, Mosaic, launched in 1993,

and later Netscape Navigator, helped popularize the web by enabling
users to navigate with ease through graphical interfaces.

Commercialization: In the mid-1990s, the internet was opened for

commercial use, leading to the dot-com boom. ISPs (Internet Service
Providers) began offering internet access to the public, and businesses
started creating online presences.
Broadband and Wireless Networks (2000s)

Broadband Access: The 2000s saw a shift from dial-up connections to

broadband, allowing for faster and more reliable internet access. This
transformation paved the way for richer content like video streaming,
online gaming, and real-time communication.

Wireless and Mobile Networks: Wi-Fi technology became widespread,

enabling wireless access to networks at homes, businesses, and public
spaces. In parallel, mobile networks evolved with the introduction of 3G
and later 4G, bringing the internet to mobile devices.

Social Media and Cloud Computing: Social networking platforms like

Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube emerged, creating new ways for people
to connect. Cloud computing services, such as Amazon Web Services
(AWS), began to offer scalable storage and computing resources
online.
Modern Internet and the Rise of IoT (2010s-present)

5G and Beyond: In recent years, 5G networks have been rolled out,

offering even faster speeds, low latency, and the capacity to handle
vast numbers of connected devices. This has enabled new
technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and
autonomous vehicles.

Internet of Things (IoT): The rise of IoT has connected billions of

smart devices (sensors, appliances, vehicles, etc.) to the internet,
allowing for greater automation and data collection.

Cloud and Edge Computing: The growth of cloud computing has

made data storage and processing more flexible and scalable, while
edge computing is enabling data processing closer to the source,
reducing latency for applications like smart cities and real-time
analytics.
The Future of Networks

Quantum Networking: Research into quantum networking aims to

harness the principles of quantum mechanics to create ultra-secure
communication systems.

AI and Networking: Artificial intelligence is being integrated into

network management, enabling self-optimizing networks that can
monitor, diagnose, and resolve issues automatically.

Decentralized Networks: The rise of blockchain and decentralized

technologies is leading to new models of networking that prioritize
privacy, security and peer-to-peer interactions.
Summary

From the early days of ARPANET and simple file sharing to the
complex, global, and interconnected internet of today, the evolution
of networks has been a key driver of innovation.

Networks now support almost everything from cloud computing to

the Internet of Things, creating a digital world that is always
connected and rapidly expanding.
Thank you
 Recommended books – part 1

"Where Wizards Stay Up Late: The Origins of the Internet" by Katie Hafner and Matthew Lyon

Overview: This book provides an engaging historical account of how the internet was born, focusing on the ARPANET
project. It’s an excellent resource for students interested in the foundational period of computer networks.

Why It’s Useful: It offers a detailed narrative of the key events and personalities that led to the creation of the internet,
written in a way that's accessible to readers without a technical background.

"Computer Networks: A Systems Approach" by Larry L. Peterson and Bruce S. Davie

Overview: A highly regarded textbook that covers computer network architectures, principles, and technologies. It’s widely
used in university-level networking courses.

Why It’s Useful: It provides a comprehensive understanding of the mechanics behind modern networks, including topics
like network layers, routing, and security. Suitable for students seeking deeper technical insight.

"The Innovators: How a Group of Hackers, Geniuses, and Geeks Created the Digital Revolution" by Walter Isaacson

Overview: This book traces the history of key figures and breakthroughs in computer science and networking, focusing on
the innovators who contributed to the digital age.

Why It’s Useful: Isaacson’s approachable style and storytelling will help students appreciate the broader context of
computer network development as part of the digital revolution
 Recommended books – part 2

"Networking for Dummies" by Doug Lowe

Overview: A practical guide for beginners to understand networking concepts. It explains both the basics
and more advanced topics, including wired and wireless networking, cloud networking, and security.
Why It’s Useful: It’s particularly helpful for students who need an introduction to networking concepts,
offering simple and understandable explanations of complex topics.
"The Internet of Things: A Look at Real-World Use Cases and the Direction of IoT" by Samuel
Greengard

Overview: This book explores the latest developments in IoT technology and its real-world applications,
giving students insights into the modern phase of network evolution.
Why It’s Useful: Provides a clear overview of IoT and its impact on industries, societies, and the future of
networks, which is an important aspect of modern network studies.
 Recommended articles – part 1

"The Internet: A Historical Perspective" by Barry M. Leiner et al.

Source: This article was written by several of the key figures in internet development and is available
through the Internet Society.

Why It’s Useful: It gives an authoritative, detailed overview of the internet’s history, from the ARPANET to
the development of protocols like TCP/IP.

"A Brief History of the Internet" by Vinton Cerf and Robert Kahn

Overview: Written by two of the "fathers of the internet," this article provides an overview of the major
milestones and challenges encountered during the internet's development.

Why It’s Useful: It’s a firsthand account from key contributors and offers students a primary source on how
foundational technologies were developed.

"Evolution of the Internet" by C. Patrikakis et al. (IEEE Communications Magazine)

Overview: This article, published by IEEE, examines how the internet has evolved over decades, including
technological breakthroughs like 4G, 5G, and IoT.
 Recommended articles – part 2

"The Internet of Things: Evolution or Revolution?" by Shane Walker (Forbes)

Overview: A thought-provoking article that discusses whether IoT represents an incremental

step in network evolution or a transformative change.

Why It’s Useful: Helps students critically evaluate the role of IoT in the broader context of
network development and future trends.

"Cloud Computing and Its Impact on Networking" by Rajkumar Buyya et al.

Overview: This academic paper discusses the relationship between cloud computing and
networking, focusing on how cloud technologies have transformed network architectures.

Why It’s Useful: Students interested in understanding how cloud computing integrates with
networking will find this useful for learning how modern networks are structured and managed.
Kahoot Quiz