Definition of Networking
Networking refers to the process of connecting computers and other devices
to share resources, exchange data, and communicate effectively. It forms the
backbone of modern communication and IT infrastructure.
Types of Networks
LAN (Local Area Network):
Covers a small geographic area, such as an office or home.
Examples: Ethernet network in a building.
WAN (Wide Area Network):
Covers large geographic areas, often using leased telecommunication lines.
Example: The Internet.
MAN (Metropolitan Area Network):
Spans a city or large campus.
Example: City-wide Wi-Fi network.
PAN (Personal Area Network):
Connects personal devices within a short range.
Example: Bluetooth or hotspot.
Networking Devices
Router: Directs data between networks.
Switch: Connects devices within a LAN.
Hub: Basic device to connect multiple devices; now mostly replaced by
switches.
Modem: Converts digital data to analog for internet access.
Access Point: Wireless network device enabling Wi-Fi.
Network Protocols
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol): Foundation of
internet communication.
HTTP/HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol): Used for web browsing.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol): Used for transferring files.
DNS (Domain Name System): Resolves domain names into IP addresses.
Network Topologies
Star Topology: All devices connect to a central hub/switch.
Bus Topology: All devices share a common communication line.
Ring Topology: Devices are connected in a circular sequence.
Mesh Topology: Every device is connected to every other device.
IP Addressing
IPv4: 32-bit numeric address (e.g., 192.168.1.1).
IPv6: 128-bit alphanumeric address, created due to IPv4 exhaustion (e.g.,
2001:0db8::1).
Networking Security Concepts
Firewall: Blocks unauthorized access.
VPN (Virtual Private Network): Encrypts connections over the Internet.
Antivirus Software: Protects against malware.
Encryption: Secures data by converting it into an unreadable format.
Networking Models
OSI Model (Open Systems Interconnection):
7 Layers: Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport, Session, Presentation,
Application.
TCP/IP Model:
4 Layers: Network Interface, Internet, Transport, Application.
Advantages of Networking
Resource sharing (files, printers, internet).
Centralized management.
Easier communication.
Enhanced security through monitoring.
Disadvantages of Networking
Security vulnerabilities.
Network failures can affect many users.
Requires maintenance and expertise.
