Understanding TCP/IP Configuration

TCP/IP Configuration

• TCP/IP refers to the set of rules that enable devices to communicate over the internet or a network.
• TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) ensures data is sent and received without errors by breaking it into packets, sending them, and resending lost packets.
• IP (Internet Protocol) gives each device a unique IP address so data knows where to go.
• An IP Address is a unique number for each device (e.g., 192.168.1.1).
• The Subnet Mask identifies which part of the IP address is for the network (e.g., 255.255.255.0).
• The Default Gateway represents the IP address of the router (e.g., 192.168.1.254) connecting your network to the internet.
• A DNS Server translates domain names (like google.com) into IP addresses (like 142.250.190.78).
• Static IPs require manual entry of details, while DHCP allows routers to automatically assign them.

Firewalls in Secure Networks

• A firewall is a security system monitoring and controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic, based on predefined rules.
• Firewalls block hackers, viruses, and other threats.
• Firewalls prevent unauthorized access to data.
• Hardware firewalls are physical devices such as routers with built-in firewalls protecting entire networks.
• Software firewalls are programs installed on computers protecting individual devices like Windows Firewall.
• Firewalls check all traffic, allow traffic matching predefined rules, and block the rest.
• Firewalls can block all traffic except for safe web browsing (HTTP/HTTPS).

Client-Server Networks

• A client-server network involves devices requesting services (clients) and devices providing services (servers).
• Clients are devices (like computers or phones) requesting something (e.g., a webpage).
• Servers are powerful computers providing services (e.g., sending the webpage).
• In web browsing, a browser asks a web server for a webpage
• In email, an email app asks an email server for messages.
• Centralized data storage on the server makes management easier.
• Scalability allows more clients without affecting the server.

Cloud-Based Networks

• Cloud-based networks store data and services on the internet (in the cloud) rather than on your computer.
• Cloud-based networks allow access to files and apps with an internet connection from anywhere.
• Cloud-based networks are scalable, allowing more storage or power when needed.
• Google Drive stores files in the cloud which can be accessed from any device.
• Netflix streams movies stored on cloud servers.

Network Topology

• Network topology describes how devices connect in a network.
• Star topology connects all devices to a central hub (like a router).
• Bus topology connects all devices to a single cable.
• Ring topology connects devices in a circle.
• Mesh topology connects devices to each other in a web-like pattern.
• Network topology affects network speed, reliability and determines ease of adding new devices or fixing problems.

Network Threats and Vulnerabilities

• Threats include malware like viruses, worms, and ransomware.
• Phishing consists of fake emails or websites tricking users into revealing passwords or personal details.
• DDoS attacks overload a network with traffic, causing crashes and unavailability.
• Vulnerabilities include weak, easily guessed passwords.
• Outdated software presents security holes that can be exploited.
• Misconfigured firewalls or routers leave networks open to attacks.

Network Administration

• Network administration involves managing and maintaining a network.
• Tasks of network administration include monitoring, troubleshooting, security measures and updates.
• Monitoring aims to ensure the network works well.
• Troubleshooting is about fixing problems when they arise.
• Security involves setting up firewalls, VPNs, and passwords.
• Updates keep software and devices current.

Maintenance of Network Performance

• Maintaining a network involves checking bandwidth
• Prioritizing important traffic.
• Keeping devices up to date.
• Monitoring traffic.
• Checking bandwidth ensures sufficient internet speed for everyone.
• Quality of Service (QoS) prioritizes important traffic like video calls over downloads.
• Updating devices involves keeping routers and switches up to date.
• Analyzing traffic helps identify slow speeds or excessive traffic.

Network Security Methods

• Protecting a network involves using firewalls to block dangerous traffic.
• Encryption is needed to prevent unauthorized access to data.
• VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) create secure tunnels for remote users to access the network.
• MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) asks for more than a password (e.g., a code sent to a phone).

Troubleshooting a Slow Network

• Fixing a slow network involves checking the bandwidth.
• Testing connections.
• Checking hardware.
• Updating firmware.
• Optimizing routing.
• Test connections using tools like ping to see if devices are responding.
• Hardware must be checked to ensure that routers and cables are working.
• Firmware updates must be installed to make sure all devices are running the latest software.
• Routing must be optimized to confirm that data is taking the fastest path.

Transport Layer and Application Layer

• The transport layer ensures correct data transmission and reception, and includes TCP used for websites and emails.
• UDP is faster but less reliable, and often used for video calls and online games.
• The application layer provides services for apps like web browsers and email.
• Examples of application layer protocols are HTTP (for websites), SMTP (for emails), and FTP (for file transfers).

Explain TCP/IP

• TCP/IP offers a set of rules for sending data over the internet.
• The IP (Internet Protocol) gives each device an IP address.
• TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) ensures data is arrived correctly and is in order.
• UDP (User Datagram Protocol) sends data faster but does not check for errors.
• Web browsers use TCP/IP to send and receive data.

DNS (Domain Name System)

• DNS is like the "phone book" of the internet.
• DNS translates domain names into IP addresses.
• When a website name is entered, a DNS query is sent to a DNS server which responds with the site’s IP address.
• An A Record maps a domain name to an IPv4 address.
• An AAAA Record maps a domain name to an IPv6 address.
• A CNAME Record maps one domain name to another, and is used for aliases.
• An MX Record specifies mail servers for email delivery.

Explore TCP/IP, the communication rules for internet and networks. Learn about IP addresses, subnet masks, default gateways, and DNS servers. Discover the difference between static IPs and DHCP.