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BASIC COMPUTER NETWORKING CONCEPTS
PRESENTED BY K.O. YENIKA
Updated 8/27/04
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This presentation is divided into three main
parts
. Types of computer networks
. Computer Network Equipment
. Network Topologies
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Definition of computer networking
Computer networking is the practice of
connecting multiple computing devices such
as computers, smartphones, and servers for the
purposed of communication (share resources
like data, applications, and services)
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Definition of computer networking
This connection enables devices to exchange
information and access shared resources over various
transmission mediums, including wired cables and
wireless signals
In simpler terms, computer networking allows
devices to talk to each other
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Types of computer networks
Computer networks are categorized based on
their size, range, and purpose. Here are the
primary types:
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1. Personal Area Network (PAN)
Definition
A PAN is a small network, typically within a range
of a few meters, connecting personal devices like
smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
Examples
Connecting devices such as smartphones to wireless
headphones or linking a laptop to a printer.
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2. Local Area Network (LAN)
Definition
A LAN connects computers and devices within a
limited area, such as a home, office, or building.
example
Sharing resources like printers and files within a
single building or campus.
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3. Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
Definition
A WLAN is a LAN that uses wireless communication
methods, allowing devices to connect without
physical cables.
Example
Providing Wi-Fi connectivity in homes, offices, and
public spaces.
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4. Campus Area Network (CAN)
Definition
A CAN spans a larger area than a LAN, typically
covering a university campus or a business campus.
Example
Connecting multiple buildings within a university to
share resources and information.
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5. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
Definition
A MAN covers a city or a large campus, connecting
multiple LANs within a specific geographic area.
Examples
Providing high-speed internet access to a city or
connecting multiple branches of an organization
within a city.
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6. Wide Area Network (WAN)
Definition
A WAN spans a large geographic area, such as a country or
continent, connecting multiple LANs and MANs.
Examples
The internet is the most prominent example, connecting
networks worldwide.
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7. Virtual Private Network
(VPN)
Definition
A VPN creates a secure connection over a public network,
allowing remote users to access a private network securely.
Example
Enabling employees to access company resources securely
from remote locations.
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8. Storage Area Network (SAN)
Definition
A SAN is a specialized network designed to provide
high-speed, low-latency access to storage devices.
Example
Used in data centers to connect servers to large-scale
storage systems.
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10. Enterprise Private Network
Definition
A private network built and owned by an enterprise to
interconnect its various LANs and MANs.
Examples
Connecting different branches of a company securely
over a private network.
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Computer Network Equipment
Computer network equipment refers to the physical devices
and hardware components essential for establishing,
maintaining, and managing communication within a
computer network. These devices facilitate data
transmission, routing, switching, and security, ensuring
efficient and secure network operations. bellow are some
commonly used network equipments
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Network Hubs
Basic devices that connect multiple computers
in a network, broadcasting data to all
connected devices.
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Network Bridges
Devices that connect and filter traffic
between two network segments at the data
link layer, helping to reduce collisions and
manage traffic.
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Network Gateways
Devices that act as translators between
different network protocols, enabling
communication between networks that use
different protocols.
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Network Firewalls
Security devices that monitor and control
incoming and outgoing network traffic based
on predetermined security rules, acting as a
barrier between trusted and untrusted
networks.
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Network Switches
A network switch is a device that connects multiple devices within a
local area network (LAN), such as computers, printers, and servers. It
operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model and uses
MAC addresses to forward data to the correct destination device.
Unlike hubs, which broadcast data to all connected devices, switches
send data only to the intended recipient, enhancing network efficiency
and security.
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Modems
A modem (short for modulator and demodulator) is a
device that converts digital data from a computer into
analog signals suitable for transmission over
telephone lines and vice versa. This conversion
allows digital devices to communicate over analog
infrastructure, enabling internet connectivity.
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Routers:
Routers are devices that forward data packets between
different networks, such as between a local network and the
internet. They operate at the network layer (Layer 3) of the
OSI model and use IP addresses to determine the best path for
data transmission. Routers are essential for directing traffic
efficiently and securely across networks.
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Computer Network
Equipment
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Network Topologies
Network topology refers to the arrangement
of different elements (links, nodes, devices ,
switches, routers, hubs etc.)
in a computer network. Common topologies
include
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Bus Topology
Here all devices are connected to a single
central cable, or bus.
It's simple but can be inefficient as the
network grows
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Advantages Bus Topology
Cost-Effective
Requires less cabling than other topologies,
making it affordable for small networks.
Simplicity
Easy to understand and set up, suitable for
small networks.
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Disadvantages Bus Topology
Single Point of Failure
If the central cable fails, the entire network can be
disrupted.
Limited Scalability:
Adding new devices can be challenging and may affect
performance.
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Star Topology
Here all devices are connected to a central
device, like a switch or hub. This is common
in modern networks and offers better
performance and fault tolerance
Advantages of Star 29
Topology
Reliability
Failure in one device doesn't affect the rest of the
network.
Easy Expansion
Adding or removing devices is straightforward.
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Disadvantages of Star Topology
Central Point of Failure
If the central hub fails, the entire network is affected.
Higher Cabling Costs
Requires more cabling than bus topology.
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Ring Topology
Each device is connected to two other
devices, forming a ring. Data travels in one
direction, and a failure in one device can
disrupt the entire network.
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Advantages of Ring Topology
Balanced Data Flow
Data travels in one direction, reducing the chance
of collisions.
Equal Access
Each device has equal access to the network.
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Disadvantages of Ring Topology
Single Point of Failure
A failure in one device can disrupt the entire
network.
Complex Troubleshooting
Identifying and isolating faults can be
challenging.
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Mesh Topology
Devices are interconnected, providing
multiple paths for data to travel. This offers
high redundancy and reliability but can be
complex and costly to implement.
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Advantages of Mesh Topology
High Reliability
Multiple paths between devices ensure network
resilience.
Fault Isolation
Faults can be isolated without affecting the
entire network
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Disadvantages of Mesh Topology
High Cost
Requires extensive cabling and hardware, making
it expensive.
Complex Installation
Setting up and maintaining the network is
complex
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Tree Topology
A hybrid topology that combines characteristics of
star and bus topologies, suitable for large networks.
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Advantages of Tree Topology
Scalability
Easy to expand by adding new branches.
Hierarchical Structure
Organized structure simplifies management.
Disadvantages of Tree 39
Topology
Single Point of Failure
Failure in the backbone can disrupt multiple
branches.
High Cabling Costs
Requires more cabling than star topology.
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Network Topologies
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END
