Fundamentals of
Computer
Systems and
Networking
An Introduction to Core Concepts
By Tr. Kyaw Soe
Content
1. Introduction to Computer Systems
2. Components of a Computer System
3. Understanding Operating Systems
4. Introduction to Networking
5. Network Types
6. Networking Devices
7. Network Protocols
Introduction to Computer
Systems
- Definition: A computer system consists of hardware
and software components that work together to
perform tasks.
- Examples of Computer Systems: Desktops, laptops,
servers, and embedded systems.
Components of a Computer
System
- Hardware Components:
- Central Processing Unit (CPU): The brain of the
computer.
- Memory (RAM): Short-term data storage.
- Storage (Hard Drives/SSDs): Long-term data storage.
- Input/Output Devices: Keyboard, mouse, monitor,
printer.
- Software Components:
- System Software: Operating systems like Windows,
macOS, Linux.
- Application Software: Programs like Microsoft Word,
browsers, etc.
Understanding Operating
Systems
- Definition: Software that manages hardware and
software resources in a computer system.
- Functions of an OS:
- Manages hardware resources (CPU, memory, storage).
- Provides a user interface.
- Manages files and directories.
- Controls peripheral devices (e.g., printers, mice).
- Popular OS: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android.
Introduction to Networking
- Definition: A computer network is a group of
interconnected devices that share resources and
communicate with each other.
- Basic Terminology:
- Node: Any device connected to the network.
- Data: Information exchanged over the network.
- Bandwidth: The capacity of the network to transfer
data.
Network Types
- Local Area Network (LAN): Small geographical area,
like a home or office.
- Wide Area Network (WAN): Covers large geographical
areas, such as cities or countries.
- Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN): LAN using
wireless communication, like Wi-Fi.
- Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): A network covering
a city or campus.
Networking Devices
- Router: Connects multiple networks and forwards data
between them.
- Switch: Connects devices within a network and
forwards data based on MAC addresses.
- Modem: Converts digital data to analog for
transmission over telephone lines.
- Access Point: Provides wireless network connectivity.
- Network Interface Card (NIC): Allows a computer to
connect to a network.
Network Protocols
- Definition: Set of rules governing data communication
in a network.
- Common Protocols:
- TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet
Protocol): The foundation of the internet.
- HTTP/HTTPS (HyperText Transfer Protocol): Protocol
for web communication.
- FTP (File Transfer Protocol): Used for file transfers
between computers.
- DNS (Domain Name System): Translates domain
names to IP addresses.
- Wi-Fi Protocols: Wireless communication standards.
Summary
- Computer systems consist of hardware and software
working together.
- Operating systems manage hardware, software, and
resources.
- Networking allows devices to share data and
resources.
- Different types of networks (LAN, WAN, WLAN) serve
different purposes.
- Networking devices like routers and switches facilitate
communication.
- Protocols define how data is transmitted over a
network.
