Computer Networks & Its Types Lecture Notes PDF

COMPUTER NETWORKS AND ITS TYPES Course Code:CSC-217 Course Title: Computer Networks  Introduction to Computer Networks  Computer networks allow devices to communicate and share resources.  They play a crucial role in modern computing and communication.  Understanding different net...

COMPUTER NETWORKS AND ITS TYPES Course Code:CSC-217 Course Title: Computer Networks  Introduction to Computer Networks  Computer networks allow devices to communicate and share resources.  They play a crucial role in modern computing and communication.  Understanding different network types helps choose the right one for specific needs.  Wired vs. Wireless Networks  Wired networks use physical cables like Ethernet for data transmission.  Wireless networks rely on radio signals, allowing for mobility and convenience.  The choice between wired and wireless often depends on the user’s needs.  Definition of a Computer Network  A computer network is a collection of interconnected devices.  These devices can share data, applications, and hardware resources.  Networks can vary in size and complexity, from small local setups to large global infrastructures.  Local Area Network (LAN)  A LAN connects computers within a limited geographical area.  It typically uses wired connections, like Ethernet, or wireless connections like Wi-Fi.  LANs are common in homes, schools, and small businesses for resource sharing.  Pros of LAN  LANs offer high data transfer speeds, often reaching up to 1 Gbps.  They provide centralized management, making it easier to secure and maintain.  Cost-effective for small businesses and home users due to lower installation costs.  Cons of LAN  Limited geographical reach, making them unsuitable for larger areas.  Vulnerability to security breaches if not properly configured.  Maintenance can become challenging as the number of devices increases.  Wide Area Network (WAN)  A WAN spans a large geographical area, often across cities or countries.  It connects multiple LANs and can use leased telecommunication lines.  The Internet is the largest example of a WAN, connecting millions of networks worldwide.  Pros of WAN  WANs allow for communication over great distances, facilitating global operations.  They support numerous devices and users, making them scalable.  WANs can improve collaboration between remote teams and offices.  Cons of WAN  WANs can be expensive to set up and maintain due to infrastructure costs.  They may experience slower data transfer speeds compared to LANs.  Reliance on third-party service providers can lead to downtime and outages.  Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)  MANs span a city or a large campus, connecting multiple LANs within that area.  They are commonly used by organizations that have multiple locations within a city.  MANs offer a middle ground between LANs and WANs in terms of size and speed.  Pros of MAN  MANs provide high-speed connectivity to various devices over a larger area.  They can reduce costs for organizations with multiple offices in a city.  MANs can improve local communication and resource sharing.  Cons of MAN  Setup and maintenance can be costly, similar to WANs.  Signal degradation can occur over long distances if not properly managed.  MANs may require extensive infrastructure, leading to higher initial investment.  Personal Area Network (PAN)  A PAN is a small network for personal devices, usually within a range of a few meters.  It can connect devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.  PANs are ideal for individual users who want to sync or share data between personal devices.  Pros of PAN  PANs are easy to set up and require minimal configuration.  They enable seamless data transfer between personal devices without complex setups.  Low power consumption makes them ideal for battery- operated devices.  Cons of PAN  Limited range restricts their use to very close proximity.  They may not support a large number of devices simultaneously.  Security risks can arise due to the open nature of wireless connections.  Advantages of Computer Networks  Computer networks facilitate resource sharing, improving efficiency.  They enable communication and collaboration among users in different locations.  Networks can enhance data security through centralized management and protocols.  Challenges of Computer Networks  Networks are vulnerable to security breaches and cyber threats.  Managing a network requires ongoing maintenance and updates.  Performance issues can arise from bandwidth limitations or hardware failures.  Future Trends in Networking  The rise of 5G technology promises faster and more reliable wireless networks.  IoT (Internet of Things) will expand the number of connected devices significantly.  Software-defined networking (SDN) is transforming network management and efficiency.