Computer Networks PDF

“Business information systems” The role of Computer Networks in supporting modern business --------------------------------------- A computer network facilitates communication and resource sharing, enhancing efficiency and productivity. It allows for rapid data tran...

“Business information systems” The role of Computer Networks in supporting modern business --------------------------------------- A computer network facilitates communication and resource sharing, enhancing efficiency and productivity. It allows for rapid data transfer and sharing of software, thus reducing costs. Additionally, it offers improved storage capacity and enhances data security by enabling data backup systems. Many tasks that were previously performed manually can now be automated using various software tools and applications. For instance, businesses can now automate their inventory management system, accounting processes, and customer relationship management (CRM) systems. The Value of Networking, For example, internal networking can help employees grow within their companies. Meanwhile, businesses that encourage networking often report higher employee retention rates, increased productivity and employee development through mentorship. --------------------------------------------------- What is the networking? Networking is the process of making connections and building relationships. These connections can provide you with advice and contacts, which can help you make informed career decisions. Networking can even help you find unadvertised jobs/internships. Networking can take place in a group or one-on-one setting. The ways data is transferred Local data transfer can be accomplished through wired connections like Ethernet or USB cables, or wirelessly using technologies like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. File Transfer Protocol (FTP): FTP is a standard network protocol used for transferring files between a client and a server on a computer network. What can be used to transfer data? You need an internet connection to copy data from one device to the other. We recommend you connect both of your devices to Wi-Fi. You can use the cable or wireless option to transfer data. Transfer data on the Internet “WWW”  Via FTP and the Web, The protocol designed for sending files to a server on the Internet is FTP (file transfer protocol). FTP supports files of all sizes, and files can be uploaded and downloaded using a GUI-based FTP application as well as FTP commands using a command line utility. Types of computer networks Computer networks are commonly classified based on both their purpose and size. Gain a better understanding of network classification as you explore several different types of networks, including LAN, WAN, WLAN, MAN, SAN, and the specific purposes of PAN, EPN, and VPN networks.  Local area network (LAN) A local area network (LAN) consists of a series of computers linked together to form a network in a circumscribed location. The computers in a LAN connect to each other via TCP/IP ethernet or Wi-Fi. A LAN is normally exclusive to an organization, such as a school, office, association or church.  Personal area network (PAN) A personal area network (PAN) connects electronic devices within a user's immediate area. The size of a PAN ranges from a few centimeters to a few meters. One of the most common real- world examples of a PAN is the connection between a Bluetooth earpiece and a smartphone.  Wireless local area network (WLAN) Wi-Fi is an example of WLAN where devices are connected wirelessly within a limited range. WLAN is made within home, office building, computer laboratory, school building or any college campus. For using Wi-Fi, users need to enter a password for making a connection to the internet.  Campus area network (CAN) Campus area network advantages: Fast and reliable network connections across the campus. Simplified, centralized network management. Efficient sharing of resources among users. Easily scalable infrastructure, supporting future growth.  Metropolitan area network (MAN) A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a computer network that is larger than a single building local area network (LAN) but is located in a single geographic area that is smaller than a wide area network (WAN). Generally, it is several LANs interconnected by dedicated backbone connections.  Wide area network (WAN) A wide-area network (WAN) is the technology that connects your offices, data centers, cloud applications, and cloud storage together. It is called a wide-area network because it spans beyond a single building or large campus to include multiple locations spread across a specific geographic area, or even the world.  Storage area network (SAN)  A Storage Area Network (SAN) is a network of storage devices that can be accessed by multiple servers or computers, providing a shared pool of storage space. Each computer on the network can access storage on the SAN as though they were local disks connected directly to the computer.  Passive optical local area network (POLAN) A Passive Optical LAN (POL or POLAN), short for Passive Optical Local Area Network, is based on the Passive Optical Network (PON) architecture. Like any PON system, POL is a point-to- multipoint indoor network infrastructure that uses optical splitters to distribute data from a single source to multiple user endpoints. Network topologies Refers to the physical and logical arrangement of nodes and connections in a computer network, which governs how data flows between devices. Network topology impacts network performance, security and scalability, making it a crucial concept in network design and management. Key components of data exchange networks  Repeater: A repeater is an electronic device that receives a signal and retransmits it  Switch: A network switch forwards data between devices, unlike routers, which forward data between networks.  Bridge: A device or software that connects two or more network segments, allowing devices on separate networks to communicate as if they were on the same network  Router: Sends information between two networks. Types of Network Topology Point to point topology. Point to point is a simple topology that directly links two nodes and reserves the entire bandwidth of the connection for them to communicate with one another....  Bus topology: Is a type of network topology in which all devices are connected to a single cable called a "bus."  Ring topology: Is a type of network configuration where devices are connected in a circular manner, forming a closed loop  Star topology: is a network configuration that is defined by a central network processor at its core, with nodes connected to this central point in a star-like layout  Tree topology: Is a structure where devices are connected hierarchically.  client/server: Is network can contain servers as well as individual computers --------------------------------------------------