Email, Networks, and the Future of Networking

 Definition:
 Email (Electronic Mail) is a way to send and receive messages over the Internet.
 It’s like digital mail—fast, efficient, and widely used for communication.

 Key Components of an Email:

 Email Address: Just like a postal address but online (e.g., [email protected]).
 Inbox: Where your received messages are stored.
 Attachments: Files (like documents or images) that you can send with your emails.

 Fun Fact: Over 300 billion emails are sent every day worldwide!

2
 Gmail:
 Provided by Google, it's one of the most widely used email services.

 Outlook:
 Offered by Microsoft, popular in business and academic settings.

 Yahoo Mail:
 One of the oldest email services, still used by many.

 Why It Matters:
 Email is essential for professional communication, sharing documents, and collaborating
on projects, especially in research and academic settings.

3
 Definition:
 A network is a group of computers or devices connected to share resources and
information.
 Types of Resources Shared:
 Files: Documents, presentations.
 Printers: Multiple users can print from one printer.
 Internet Access: Sharing one internet connection.

 Analogy:
 Think of a network as a community where members share resources like a public library
or a communal workspace.

4
 Local Area Network (LAN):
 Definition: A network that connects computers within a small geographic area (like a building
or campus).
 Example: School or office networks where all computers are connected.
 Analogy: LAN is like a neighborhood, where everyone is close and can easily interact.

 Wide Area Network (WAN):

 Definition: A network that covers large distances (e.g., across cities or countries).
 Example: The Internet is the largest WAN.
 Analogy: WAN is like a highway system connecting distant cities.

 Metropolitan Area Network (MAN):

 Definition: A network that covers a city or a large campus.
 Example: A city-wide Wi-Fi network.
 Analogy: MAN is like a city’s public transport system, connecting different neighborhoods.

5
 Communication:
 Email, video calls, and messaging (like WhatsApp) rely on networks.

 Collaboration:
 Tools like Google Docs or Microsoft Teams allow people to work on documents together
in real time over a network.
 Resource Sharing:
 Multiple users can access files, software, or hardware (like printers) on the same network.

 Internet Access:
 Networks provide a connection to the Internet, enabling access to websites, social media,
and online research tools.

6
 Definition:
 The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Model is a conceptual framework used to understand
how different devices communicate over a network.
 7 Layers of the OSI Model:
 Physical Layer: The hardware (cables, switches) that connect computers.
 Data Link Layer: Manages data transfer between devices on the same network.
 Network Layer: Determines the best way to move data between devices (e.g., IP addresses).
 Transport Layer: Ensures that data is sent and received correctly.
 Session Layer: Manages communication sessions between devices.
 Presentation Layer: Formats and encrypts/decrypts data for communication.
 Application Layer: The software (e.g., browsers, email programs) users interact with.

 Analogy:
 Think of the OSI model as a postal system—each layer represents a step, from writing the letter
(application layer) to delivering it (physical layer).

7
 Helps Networks Communicate:
 The OSI Model makes sure that when you send an email or visit a website, everything
runs smoothly, even if you don’t see it happening.
 Common Real-World Examples:
 Application Layer: Your web browser (Chrome, Firefox) or email program (Gmail,
Outlook).
 Network Layer: Finding the quickest route (like a GPS) for sending data.

8
 5G Networks:
 The latest generation of mobile networks, offering faster speeds and low latency.
 Impact: Better streaming, faster downloads, and enhanced mobile apps for social
scientists to use on the go (like survey tools or data collection apps).
 Internet of Things (IoT):
 A future where everyday objects (fridges, cars, medical devices) are connected to the
Internet.
 Impact: Social scientists can use IoT devices for large-scale data collection in fields like
health, education, and urban planning.
 Cloud Computing:
 More reliance on cloud-based services (Google Drive, Dropbox) to store and share data
over networks.
 Impact: Easier access to research tools and datasets from anywhere in the world.

9
 Remote Research:
 Networks allow social scientists to collaborate globally, collect data remotely, and access
large datasets.
 Data Sharing:
 Using tools like cloud storage, teams can work together on surveys, studies, and reports
without being in the same location.
 E-Learning and Collaboration:
 Tools like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams enable virtual learning, webinars, and
conferences, which have become essential for professional development.

10
 Email: A fast, efficient way to communicate digitally.
 Networks: LAN, WAN, MAN enable communication, collaboration, and sharing
resources.
 OSI Model: A framework that helps networks communicate in an organized way.
 Future of Networks: 5G, IoT, and cloud computing will shape how we interact,
research, and collaborate.

11
 Final Thoughts:
 Networks are the backbone of our digital world.
 Understanding them is crucial, regardless of your field.

 Encouragement:
 Stay curious and explore how these technologies can benefit your studies and future
careers.

12