Computer Networks Overview Quiz

Grading Policy

• Mid Exam: 15 Marks, no make-up exam allowed.
• Final Exam: 40 Marks.
• Quizzes: 5 Marks, no make-up quizzes permitted.
• Attendance: 5 Marks, penalties apply for late attendance.
• Assignments: 5 Marks, late submissions will not be accepted.

Course Objectives

• Aims to provide comprehensive understanding of computer networks and underlying technologies.
• Focus on network classifications, configurations, protocols, and transmission techniques.
• Develop skills to analyze network requirements, design systems, and facilitate information exchange.

Textbooks

• Primary textbook: "Data Communications and Networking" by Behrouz Forouzan.

Telecommunication

• Definition: Communication over distances using electrical signals or electromagnetic waves.
• Involves various forms, including telephony, telegraphy, and television.

Data Communications

• Defined as the exchange of data between two devices via transmission media.
• Requires a transmission medium and a receiver to convert signals into usable information.

Telecommunication Networks

• Modern telecommunications systems operate as interconnected networks.
• Networks facilitate the transmission of information over long distances, such as the internet and VoIP systems.
• Six basic components: Input and output devices, telecommunication channels, processors, control software, messages, and protocols.

Components of a Telecommunication Network

• Input/Output Devices: Terminals initiating and terminating communication (e.g., phones, computers).
• Telecommunication Channels: Mediums for data transmission, including cables and wireless frequencies.
• Telecommunication Processors: Functions include data conversion (analog to digital).
• Control Software: Manages network devices, performance, settings, and troubleshooting.
• Messages: Data transferred between devices; format varies by application or protocol.
• Protocols: Guidelines for data exchange and communication reliability (e.g., TCP/IP, GSM).

Telephone Network

• A telecommunications system enabling users to make voice calls over long distances.
• Utilizes both wired (e.g., twisted-pair, coaxial, fiber optic) and wireless technologies.

Types of Computer Networks

• Described by size, transmission media, management method, and topology.
• Management Methods:
  • Centralized Management: One server controls all resources.
  • Decentralized Management: Distribution of management tasks among multiple administrators.
  • Distributed Management: No central server; management spreads across nodes.

Network Topology

• Bus Topology: All devices on a single cable.
• Star Topology: Each device connects to a central hub or switch.
• Ring Topology: Devices form a circular chain, each connected to two adjacent ones.
• Mesh Topology: Every device connects to every other device directly.

Internet Access Methods

• Different ways to access the internet include:
  • Dial-up: Basic, slower connection through telephone lines.
  • ISDN: Integrated Services Digital Network for digital data transmission.
  • DSL: Digital Subscriber Line, faster than dial-up.
  • Cable Service: High-speed access via cable television infrastructure.
  • Fiber Connection: Fiber optic broadband offers faster speeds and higher reliability.
  • Wireless Connection: Uses radio link to connect customers to service providers.

Test your understanding of computer networks and underlying technologies with this quiz. Explore topics such as network classifications, configurations, and protocols. Perfect for students looking to solidify their knowledge in this essential area of computer science.