Kurdistan Region – Iraq
Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific
Research, Duhok Polytechnic University
Duhok Technical Institute
Information Technology Department
Computer Networks I
LECTURE 1
INTRODUCTION TO NETWORKS
Abdo S. Abdi
Information Technology Department
2024 - 2025
Outlines
❖Computer network
❖Representation of Network
❖Definition of communication
❖The advantages of computer networks
❖Features Of Computer network
Computer networks
A computer network is a group of interconnected devices (computers, servers, routers, etc.) that communicate
with each other to share resources and exchange data.
• Devices can include computers, smartphones, printers,
cameras, or even smart home appliances.
• Communication happens through physical cables (like
Ethernet) or wirelessly (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth).
• Purpose: Networks allow devices to work together, enabling
tasks like file sharing, printing, browsing the internet, and
video conferencing.
Representation of Network
The Importance of Computer Networks
1. Sharing of devices such as printer and scanner
2. Sharing of program/software
3. Sharing of files
4. Sharing of data
5. Sharing of information
6. Sharing of single high-speed internet connection
7. Can access server-centered database
8. Better communication using internet services such as email.
Resource Sharing
Communication
Scalability
Cost-Effectiveness
Features Centralized Management
Reliability
Of Security
Flexibility
Computer Accessibility
network Interoperability
High Speed
Fault Tolerance
Collaboration
Features Of Computer network Cont.
Resource Sharing
Networks allow devices to share resources such as hardware (e.g., printers,
scanners), software (e.g., applications), and data storage.
•Examples:
• Multiple users in an office can print documents on a shared printer.
• Employees can access a centralized database or cloud storage for
collaborative work.
•Benefits:
• Reduces costs by eliminating the need for duplicate resources.
• Improves efficiency by enabling multiple users to access shared
resources simultaneously.
Features Of Computer network Cont.
Communication
Networks enable devices to communicate with each other,
facilitating tasks like sending emails, chatting, video
conferencing, and file transfer.
•Examples:
• Sending emails using services like Gmail or
Outlook.
• Conducting virtual meetings via platforms like
Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
•Benefits:
• Enhances collaboration and productivity.
• Enables real-time communication across
geographical distances.
Features Of Computer network Cont.
Scalability
Scalability means that we can add the new components on the network. Network
must be scalable so that we can extend the network by adding new devices.
•Examples:
• Adding more computers to a company's network as it expands.
• Scaling up a home network by connecting additional smart devices.
•Benefits:
• Allows networks to adapt to changing requirements.
• Supports growth without significant disruptions.
Features Of Computer network Cont.
Cost-Effectiveness
By sharing resources and reducing the need for individual devices, networks help organizations
save money.
•Examples:
• Instead of buying a printer for every employee, a single printer can serve an entire department.
• Cloud-based services eliminate the need for expensive on-premises servers.
•Benefits:
• Reduces hardware and maintenance costs.
• Optimizes resource utilization.
Features Of Computer network Cont.
Centralized Management
Networks allow administrators to manage devices, security, and resources from a central location.
•Examples:
• IT teams can update software or apply security patches to all devices in a network at once.
• Administrators can monitor network activity and troubleshoot issues remotely.
•Benefits:
• Simplifies management and maintenance.
• Ensures consistency and security across the network.
Features Of Computer network Cont.
Reliability
Computer network can use the alternative source for the data communication in case of any
hardware failure.
Examples:
◦ Data redundancy in cloud storage ensures files are not lost if one server fails.
◦ Backup systems and failover mechanisms maintain network availability during outages.
Benefits:
◦ Minimizes downtime and data loss.
◦ Enhances user confidence in the network.
Features Of Computer network Cont.
Security
Network allows the security by ensuring that the user has the right to access the certain
files and applications.
•Examples:
• Firewalls block malicious traffic from entering the network.
• Encryption secures sensitive information during transmission.
•Benefits:
• Protects against hacking, viruses, and other security breaches.
• Ensures privacy and confidentiality of data.
Features Of Computer network Cont.
Flexibility
Networks can be configured to meet specific needs, whether for home, office, or industrial use.
•Examples:
• A home network can connect smartphones, laptops, and smart TVs wirelessly.
•Benefits:
• Adapts to different environments and requirements.
• Supports diverse applications and use cases.
Features Of Computer network Cont.
Accessibility
Networks enable users to access resources and information from anywhere, provided they have the
necessary permissions.
•Examples:
• Remote employees can access company files through a secure connection.
• Students can log into their school's learning management system from home.
•Benefits:
• Facilitates remote work and learning.
• Increases convenience and flexibility for users.
Features Of Computer network Cont.
Interoperability
Networks allow devices and systems from different manufacturers to work together seamlessly.
•Examples:
• A Windows laptop can connect to a network printer made by another company.
• Different devices (e.g., Android phones, Apple iPhones) can connect to the same Wi-Fi network.
•Benefits:
• Promotes compatibility and collaboration.
• Reduces limitations imposed by proprietary technologies.
Features Of Computer network Cont.
High Speed and Performance
Modern networks offer high-speed data transfer, ensuring efficient communication and minimal
delays.
•Examples:
• Streaming high-definition videos without buffering.
• Transferring large files quickly over a local area network (LAN).
•Benefits:
• Improves user experience.
• Supports bandwidth-intensive applications like video conferencing and online gaming.
Features Of Computer network Cont.
Fault Tolerance
Networks can be designed to continue functioning even if part of the system fails.
•Examples:
• Redundant connections ensure data can still flow if one link goes down.
• Backup power supplies keep critical systems running during power outages.
•Benefits:
• Ensures uninterrupted service.
• Reduces the risk of data loss or service disruption.
Features Of Computer network Cont.
Collaboration
Networks enable users to collaborate on projects, share ideas, and work together in real time.
•Examples:
• Teams using Google Docs or Microsoft Teams for collaborative document editing.
• Developers working on shared code repositories using Git.
•Benefits:
• Enhances teamwork and productivity.
• Facilitates global collaboration regardless of physical location.
Features of a computer network
Features Description Example
Resource Sharing Devices share hardware, software, and data storage. Shared printer in an office.
Communication Facilitates data exchange and interaction between devices. Video conferencing via Zoom.
Scalability Networks can grow or shrink as needed. Adding new computers to a growing business.
Cost-Effectiveness Reduces expenses by sharing resources. Using cloud storage instead of physical servers.
Centralized Administer devices and resources from a single point. Updating software across all devices in a network.
Management
Reliability Ensures consistent and dependable performance. Data redundancy in cloud storage.
Security Protects data and devices from unauthorized access. Firewalls blocking malicious traffic.
Flexibility Configurable for various environments and applications. Home Wi-Fi vs. enterprise network.
Accessibility Allows users to access resources remotely. Remote employees accessing company files.
Interoperability Enables devices from different manufacturers to work together. Windows laptop printing on a network printer.
High Speed Offers fast data transfer for efficient communication. Streaming HD videos without buffering.
Fault Tolerance Continues functioning even if part of the system fails. Redundant network connections.
Collaboration Supports teamwork and real-time interaction among users. Collaborative document editing in Google Docs.
