Networking Devices & Computer Networks

• A computer network can be defined as a group of computers or other devices that are connected together to share information and resources.
• Applications of computer networks include resource sharing, communication, remote access, gaming, and data backup.
• Four networking devices: routers, switches, hubs, and network interface cards (NICs).
• A WAN (Wide Area Network) is a telecommunications network that extends over a large geographic area for the purpose of computer networking.

Physical Layer Devices

• Deals with the physical connection between devices.
• Includes devices such as hubs, repeaters, and network cables.

Router

• A network device that forwards data packets between computer networks.
• Routers perform the traffic directing functions on the Internet.

Switch

• A network device that filters and forwards packets between LAN segments.
• Switches operate at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model.

Bridge

• Functions similarly to a switch by connecting two network segments.
• Bridges can forward or filter data based on MAC addresses.

LAN (Local Area Network)

• Connects network devices over a relatively short distance.
• Typically used in homes, schools, or small offices.

MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)

• A network that interconnects users with computer resources in a geographic area larger than that covered by even a large local area network (LAN) but smaller than the area covered by a wide area network (WAN).

WAN (Wide Area Network)

• Covers a broad area like a state or country.
• The Internet is the most popular WAN.

Transmission Media

• Refers to the means of carrying data signals between devices.
• Examples include twisted pair cable, coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, and wireless.

Network Topologies

• Define the structure of a network.
• Common topologies include bus, star, ring, mesh, and tree.

Physical Address (MAC Address)

• A unique identifier assigned to network interfaces for communications at the data link layer.

Logical Address (IP Address)

• A numerical label assigned to each device participating in a computer network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication.

Advantages/Benefits of Computer Networks

• Resource sharing, cost reduction, increased storage capacity, and enhanced communication.