Introduction to Computer Networks

Introduction  to Computer Networks

Introduction 

In today's interconnected world ,computer network play a vital role in the functioning of societies and businesses.This blog aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of computer networks as systems , including their components ,objectives ,and real -world applications.

• Network as a system 

A computer network is a system of link devices and computers that may exchanged data and operate together .Networks can range from small, Local Area Network (LANs , Local Area Network ) to large area network , WANS , Including the Internet . Networks are arranged of various elements that work together to facilitate communication depicted.

The primary components include:

• Nodes

Devices that are connected to the network ,such as computers, smartphones and printers.

• Links

The connections between nodes , which can be wired (like Ethernet cables) or wireless(like WiFi).

• Switches 

Devices that connect multiple nodes within a network to forward data .

• Routers

Devices that connect different networks and direct data packets between them .

Did you know🤔

The Internet is the largest network, connecting all the networks worldwide.

Objectives of Computer Networks

The primary objective of computer network is to enable resource sharing, data communication and collaboration:

1. Resource  Sharing  

Computer Network allow devices to share resources such as printers and storage ,reducing costs and improving efficiency.Example in an office network ,multiple computers can share a single printer, reducing the need for multiple printers.

  2. Data Communication :

Networks facilitate data transfer , enabling communication through emails ,instant messaging ,and video conferencing .Example Employees in different location can collaborate through video conferencing tools like zoom or Microsoft teams.

Connectivity  and collaboration:

Network connect devices, allowing for remote access and collaboration ,improving productivity and flexibility .Example  A team can work on a shared document in real-time using cloud-based services like Google Drive.

   Did you know ?🤔 

  The world 🌎 wide web (WWW) was    invented by tim Berners-Lee in 1989 ,  revolutionizing how we access and     share information.

• Fundamental Concepts in Data Communication .

Data communication involves the exchange of data between a sender and a receiver through a communication medium .key components include the 

1. Sender 
2. Receiver 
3. Message
4. Protocol
5. Medium

  Components of Data Communication 

Comprises of five basic components:

   Sender :The device that sends the data .Example:  A Computer sending an email.

  Receiver:  The device that receiver the data. Example : A smartphone receiving the email.

  Message :  The data being communicated. Example : The content of the email.

  Protocol : A set of rules governing data communication. Examples : The HTTP protocol used for web communications.

   Medium : The physical or wireless path through which data travels .Example :Ethernet cable or wiFi.

Network Topologies

Network topologies are methods used to define the arrangement of different devices in a computer network, where each device is called a node. The reliability and performance of a network are impacted by the way its devices are linked .

Bus 🚌 Topology 

In a Bus Topology , all devices share a single communication line called a bus .Each device is connected to this central cable.

    Did you know 

  Bus 🚌  Topology is easy to set up but if the main cable fails, the whole network goes down .

 Star ⭐ Topology 

In a star Topology each node in network communicates with the other via a central switch or hub .the hub works as  a data flow repeater.

  Did you know 

   Hub is a network device used to connect     to multiple computing devices in LAN-It always  broadcasts data .

Ring  Topology 

In a Ring 💍 Topology ,each device is connected in a circular pathway with other devices .Data travels in one direction, passing through each device .

     Tidbits. 

   Ring Topology can handle high traffic ,but if one connection fails ,the whole network is affected .then 2-way ring can solve this issue to some extent.

    Mesh Topology 

In a mesh Topology ,each device is connected to every other device .This provides high redundancy and reliability.

  Did you know 

  Mesh Topology is very reliable because if  one link fails , data can be rerouted   through other links.