Unit-2 Basic Network Concepts

Computer Network:- A Computer Network is a system where two or more devices are linked
together to share data, resources and information. These networks can range from simple
setups, like connecting two devices in your home, to massive global systems, like the
Internet.
A computer network is a collection of interconnected computers and devices that
communicate and share resources (files, printers, internet, applications) through
communication channels (wired or wireless).

🔹 Definition
A computer network is a system in which multiple computers and devices are connected
together to share resources, exchange data, and communicate efficiently through wired or
wireless mediums.

🔹 Objectives of Computer Networks

• Resource Sharing (files, printers, applications, internet)
• Data Communication between users/devices
• Centralized Data Management
• Cost Reduction by sharing hardware/software
• Scalability & Flexibility (easy to expand)

• Sharing devices such as printers and scanners: Multiple systems can access the same
hardware, reducing the need for duplicate devices and lowering costs.
• Sharing Data: Teams can work on shared documents, applications or systems, which
boosts efficiency.
• Data management: Networks allow organizations to store data in a central or
distributed location, making it easier to manage, secure and back up critical
information.
• Remote access : Users can log into computers, servers or cloud platforms from
different locations, supporting remote work and 24/7 access.
Types of Network Topology
The way to arrange or connect patterns of computers/nodes/devices used in the network is
known as network topology. The common types of network topologies are as follows:
1. Bus topology
2. Star Topology
3. Ring Topology
4. Mesh Topology
5. Tree Topology
6. Hybrid Topology

BUS Topology
Bus topology is a type of network in which each computer and network device is joined to a
single cable. When it consists of exactly two endpoints, then it is called Linear Bus topology.

Features of BUS Topology

1. It sends data only in one direction.
2. Every device is linked to a single cable.
Advantage of BUS Topology
1. Cost-effective.
2. Cable requirement is minimal as compared to other topologies.
 3. Useful in small networks.
4. Easy to understand.
5. Easy to expand by connecting two cables.
The Disadvantage of BUS Topology
1. The whole network fails if cables fail.
2. The performance of the network decreases in case network traffic is heavy or nodes
are more or the cable has a limited length.
3. It works slower as compared to the ring topology.

1. Bus Topology
• All devices are connected to a single central cable (called the bus or backbone).
• Data travels in both directions, but only one device can send at a time.
• Advantages: Easy to install, requires less cable.
• Disadvantages: If the main cable fails, the whole network goes down.

2.RING Topology
It is named ring topology because it creates a ring as each computer is linked to the
neighbouring computer, with the last one linked to the first, there are exactly two
neighbours for each computer.
Advantage of RING Topology
1. Transmitting network is not affected by huge traffic or by the addition of more nodes,
as only the nodes having tokens(short message) are allowed to transmit data.
2. Low cost to install and expand.
The Disadvantage of RING Topology
1. Troubleshooting is not simple in a ring topology.
2. The addition or removal of the computers interferes with the other nodes and
network activity.
3. The crashing of one node affects the whole network.
4. Initial installation cost is high therefore not applied at low-density traffic.

2. Ring Topology
• Devices are connected in a closed loop (like a circle).
• Data travels in one direction (or sometimes both in a dual ring).
• Advantages: Equal access to all devices, predictable performance.
• Disadvantages: A single device or cable failure can disrupt the whole ring.

3.STAR Topology
In Star Topology all the nodes are linked to a common hub via a cable. This hub is the central
node and all other nodes are linked to the central node. Unlike Mesh topology, star topology
does not permit straightforward communication between the devices, a device needs to
communicate through the hub. If a device requires sending data to another device, it has to
first transfer the data to the hub, and then the hub forwards that data to the selected
device.
Features of STAR Topology
1. Each node has its unique connection to the hub.
2. Hub works as a repeater for data transmission.
3. Can be utilized with twisted pair, Optical Fibre, or coaxial cable.
Advantage of STAR Topology
1. Speedy performance with less number of nodes and low network traffic.
2. Hub can be easily upgraded without hassle.
3. Simpler to troubleshoot.
4. Simpler to set up and modify.
5. If there is a failure in one node then the failed node is only affected, and the rest of
the nodes can work without any issues.
The Disadvantage of STAR Topology
1. Expensive to install.
2. Expensive in usage.
3. If the hub crashes then the entire network is stopped because all linked nodes
depend on the hub.
4. Efficiency is dependent on the hub, that is it depends on its capacity.

3. Star Topology
• All devices are connected to a central device (hub, switch, or router).
• Communication always passes through the central device.
• Advantages: Easy to add/remove devices, fault isolation is simple.
• Disadvantages: Failure of the central hub/switch brings down the network.
4.MESH Topology
Mesh topology is a type of network topology where devices are interconnected to multiple
other devices, forming a mesh-like structure.

How Does Data Transmission Work in Mesh Network Topology?

In mesh network topology, data transmission works differently than in other network
topologies. When you send data from your device, it can take different routes to reach its
destination, depending on distance, traffic congestion, and link quality. The routing
algorithms in the network determine the best path for data transmission. Here's the diagram
of mesh topology:
Here are the advantages of Mesh topology:
• Even if one connection breaks, the network keeps sending data through other paths.
• The network chooses the fastest and clearest path for your data, making it run
smoothly.
• Data travels directly between devices, making it harder for others to see it.
• You can easily add or remove devices without messing up the whole network.
Here are the disadvantages of Mesh topology:
• Many wires and complex configurations make setting up and maintaining a mesh
network harder.
• Adding devices gets expensive and complicated fast, making large networks
challenging.
• Keeping all those devices running uses more power and requires more maintenance,
cost.
• Fixing problems is trickier because there are many connections to check.
• Setting up a mesh network costs more upfront than other options.
4. Mesh Topology
• Every device is connected to every other device directly.
• Used in critical systems where reliability is important.
• Advantages: Very reliable, multiple paths for data.
• Disadvantages: Expensive and complex, requires more cabling.
5.TREE Topology
In computer networks, a tree topology is also known as a star bus topology. It incorporates
elements of both a bus topology and a star topology. A tree topology is a hierarchical
network topology resembling a tree's branches. It combines characteristics of both star and
bus topologies.

Advantage of TREE Topology

1. Extension of bus and star topologies.
2. Expansion of nodes is possible and easy.
3. Easily managed and maintained.
4. Error detection is easily done.
The Disadvantage of TREE Topology
1. Heavily cabled.
2. Costly.
3. If additional nodes are introduced, maintenance is difficult.
4. If the central hub fails, the network fails.

5. Tree Topology
• Combination of Star + Bus topology.
• Groups of star-configured devices are connected to a central backbone cable.
• Advantages: Scalable and easy for network expansion.
• Disadvantages: Backbone failure brings down the whole network.
6.HYBRID Topology
It is two different kinds of topologies, which is a combination of two or more topologies. For
example if in an office in some department ring topology is used and in another department
in the same place, star topology is used, connecting these topologies will form a Hybrid
Topology (ring topology and star topology).

Features of HYBRID Topology

1. It is an encapsulation of two or topologies
2. Inherits the benefits and disadvantages of the topologies included.
Advantage of HYBRID Topology
1. Reliable because Error detecting and troubleshooting are easy.
2. Effective.
3. Scalable as size can be increased easily.
4. Flexible.
Learn about the here.
The Disadvantage of HYBRID Topology
1. Complex in design.
2. Costly.
6. Hybrid Topology
• A mix of two or more topologies (e.g., Star + Ring, Star + Bus).
• Advantages: Flexible, scalable, suited for large organizations.
• Disadvantages: Complex design, costly.

✅ Summary Table
Topology Layout Advantages Disadvantages

Single cable Backbone failure collapses

Bus Simple, low cost
backbone network

Easy to manage, isolate

Star Central hub/switch Hub failure = network failure
faults

Ring Circular loop Equal access, predictable One break can stop the network

Mesh Fully connected Reliable, redundant Expensive, complex

Tree Stars linked to a bus Scalable, structured Backbone failure affects all

Hybrid Combination Flexible, customizable Expensive, complex

Introduction to Computer Network
Computer Network is the interconnection between multiple devices. Computer Network
allows to send and receive data and information between different connected devices.
Different devices in a network are connected through links

Types of Computer Networks

Based on the size of the network, ownership, and distance covered by the network, there
are three types of computer networks
1. Local Area Network (LAN)
2. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
3. Wide area network (WAN)

LAN (Local Area Network)

A Local Area Network (LAN) is a group of connected devices that are in a limited area such as
a school, office, building, or home. It is a network mostly used for sharing hardware
resources such as printers, files, scanners, etc. If we talk about the simplest LAN network
then we will consider a computer and a printer connected in a home as the simplest
network. The data transmission speed of the LAN is up to 10 Mbps.

There are two types of LAN:

Wired LAN– In this type of LAN, wired cables such as twisted pair or coaxial cables are used
for the connection and transmission of data.
Wireless LAN– In this type of LAN, devices are connected by wireless cables such as radio,
and light waves.
Characteristics
• LAN is a type of network owned by the private owner
• LAN can be used to connect printers, personal computers, etc.
• LAN Networks can be designed very easily.
• Troubleshooting of LAN networks is easy.
• Data transfer rate of the LAN network is about 10 Gbits/s.
• It is a network which is limited to the local area.
• LAN operates relatively faster than the WAN network.
Advantages
• LAN allows sharing of computer hardware like printers, scanners, etc. which may
reduce the cost of buying expensive computer hardware.
• LAN permits to share of a single internet facility among the devices connected to
LAN.
• LAN provides high security and fault tolerance capability.
• It allows the transmission of data between people and devices at a high transmission
rate.
Disadvantages
• LAN reduces the cost by allowing sharing of computer hardware, but the initial
installation cost of LAN is very high.
• Technical and skilled manpower is required for the configuration and installation of
the LAN network.
• Due to the sharing of computer resources among the devices, sometimes the
operation speed of the network may slow down.

WAN (Wide Area Network)

WAN stands for Wide Area Network is a type of computer network which can cover a large
geographical area such as a continent, or a country. The size of the WAN network is larger
than the LAN and MAN network. When the size of the network grows more than the MAN
then it is considered a WAN. Usually, telecommunication networks are considered a Wide
Area Network. WAN Network could be an interconnection between two or more LANs that
are connected through telephone lines or radio waves.
Characteristics
• WAN is used to cover a large geographical area, like a country.
• WAN can be used to connect within the world and around the world.
• Any office and organization can use WAN to form its global integrated network.
Advantages
• WAN allows covering a large geographical area.
• Offices situated at longer distances from each other can easily communicate through
WAN.
• Allows connecting devices like mobile phones, laptops, tablets, etc.
Disadvantages
• There are more chances of error and issues because of the use of more technologies
and wide coverage.
• Provides less security in comparison to other types of networks.
• The initial and configuration cost of WAN is very high.
• Skilled technicians and network administrators are required for the setup of this
network.

Internet
• Definition: The Internet is a global network of computers that connects millions of
private, public, academic, business, and government networks worldwide.
• Access: Public – anyone can access it using devices with internet connectivity.
• Size: Unlimited, connects across the world.
• Examples of Use:
o Browsing websites
o Sending emails
o Online banking, shopping, social media
• Key Point: Open to all, no ownership by a single organization (it is decentralized).

Intranet
• Definition: An intranet is a private network that uses Internet technologies but is
accessible only within an organization.
• Access: Restricted – only authorized users (e.g., employees) can access.
• Size: Limited to an organization or company.
• Examples of Use:
o Internal company portals
o Employee HR systems
o Sharing documents, internal communication
 •

• Key Point: Controlled and secured by the organization; not accessible to the public.

Main Difference:
• Internet = Public, global, open access.
• Intranet = Private, limited, controlled access within an organization.

Difference Between the Internet and Intranet

Internet Intranet

Internet is used to connect different

Intranet is owned by private firms.
networks of computers simultaneously.

On the internet, there are multiple users. On an intranet, there are limited users.

Internet is unsafe. Intranet is safe.

On the internet, there is more number of In the intranet, there is less number of
visitors. visitors.

Internet is a public network. Intranet is a private network.

Anyone can access the Internet. In this, anyone can't access the Intranet.

The Internet provides unlimited information. Intranet provides limited information.

A company used to communicate

Using Social media on your phone or
internally with its employees and share
researching resources via Google.
information
Internet Intranet

The Internet is a global network that An intranet is a private network that

connects millions of devices and computers connects devices and computers within
worldwide. an organization.

It is open to everyone and allows access to

An intranet is only accessible to
public information, such as websites and
authorized users within the organization.
online services.

An intranet is primarily used for internal

It is used for communication, sharing of
communication, collaboration, and
information, e-commerce, education,
information sharing within an
entertainment, and other purposes.
organization.

Access to an intranet is restricted to

Users can access the Internet from any
authorized users within the organization
location with an Internet connection and a
and is typically limited to specific devices
compatible device.
and locations.

Security measures, such as firewalls, Intranets employ similar security

encryption, and secure sockets layer (SSL) measures to protect against
protocols, are used to protect against threats unauthorized access and ensure the
like hacking, viruses, and malware. privacy and integrity of shared data.

The Internet is a public network that is not Intranets are private networks that are
owned by any particular organization or owned and managed by the organization
group. that uses them.

Examples of intranet-based services

Examples of Internet-based services include
include internal communications,
email, social media, search engines, and
knowledge management systems, and
online shopping sites.
collaboration tools