module one Network Fundamentals-1.pdf

INTERNSHIP PROGRAM MODULE ONE NETWORK FUNDAMENTALS KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT SECTION CUSTOMER CARE DEPARTMENT EARTHLINK TELECOMMUNICATIONS 2024 PREPARED BY: ABDULRAHMAN A.ALI AL-GBURI TABLE OF CONTENT Network Fundamentals 1. Defining a Network 2. Types of Networks 3. Network Components 4. IP Addr...

INTERNSHIP PROGRAM MODULE ONE NETWORK FUNDAMENTALS KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT SECTION CUSTOMER CARE DEPARTMENT EARTHLINK TELECOMMUNICATIONS 2024 PREPARED BY: ABDULRAHMAN A.ALI AL-GBURI TABLE OF CONTENT Network Fundamentals 1. Defining a Network 2. Types of Networks 3. Network Components 4. IP Address and MAC Address 5. Ping, Traceroute, and VLAN 6. DHCP Network Fundamentals  Network Fundamentals Network fundamentals are the core concepts and principles that underlie the functioning of computer networks. These fundamentals are essential for understanding how networks are designed, implemented, and maintained to enable effective communication and data transfer between devices. In this module, we will delve into the definition of a network, explore the different types of networks, examine the key network components, and gain an understanding of essential networking concepts such as IP addresses, MAC addresses, ping, traceroute, and VLANs. Network Fundamentals 1-Network definition : a collection of interconnected devices, such as computers, smartphones, printers, and servers, that can communicate and exchange data with each other. Networks enable the sharing of resources, collaboration, and the efficient transfer of information 2-Types of Networks: Networks can be classified based on various factors, including geographical coverage, ownership, and protocol used. Common types of networks include local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), wireless networks, and the internet, each with their own unique characteristics and applications. Network Fundamentals 3-Network Components: The key components of a network include network interfaces, switches, routers, servers, and cabling. These components work together to facilitate the movement of data, manage network traffic, and ensure reliable connectivity between devices. 4-IP Address and MAC Address: IP (Internet Protocol) addresses and MAC (Media Access Control) addresses are fundamental to network communication. IP addresses are used to identify devices on a network and enable them to communicate with each other, while MAC addresses uniquely identify the network interface of a device. 5-Ping, Traceroute, and VLAN: Ping and traceroute are network diagnostic tools used to test connectivity and identify network issues. VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) are a way to logically segment a network, allowing for more efficient and secure data transmission by isolating network traffic and controlling access. Network Fundamentals  A network, in the context of information technology, is a collection of interconnected devices, such as 1 computers, servers, routers, switches, and other Defining a Network peripherals, that can communicate and exchange data with each other. These devices are connected through various means, including cables, wireless connections, or a combination of both. The primary purpose of a network is to allow the efficient sharing of resources, such as files, applications, and internet access, among the connected devices. Defining a Network At the core of a network is the concept of nodes, which are the individual devices that make up the network. These nodes can be classified into two broad categories: clients and servers. Clients are the devices, such as personal computers or mobile devices, that request and consume resources from the network, while servers are The connections between these nodes are facilitated by the devices that provide those resources, such as file various network components, such as routers, switches, servers, web servers, or application servers. and hubs. These components play a crucial role in directing the flow of data and ensuring efficient communication within the network. Routers, for example, are responsible for connecting different networks and routing data between them, while switches and hubs help to connect multiple devices within the same network. Defining a Network The way in which these devices are connected and the protocols they use to communicate are what define the network topology. Common network topologies include star, bus, ring, and mesh, each with its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of scalability, reliability, and performance. Defining a network is the first step in understanding how to design, implement, and manage a robust and efficient communication system, which is essential for any organization or individual looking to leverage the power of technology in their day-to-day operations.  Types 2 of Networks There are several different types of networks that serve various purposes and cater to different needs. The primary categories include Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), and Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs). Types of Networks 1.Local Area Networks (LANs): LANs are confined to a small geographical area, such as an office building, a home, or a campus. They are characterized by high-speed data transmission, typically using Ethernet or Wi-Fi technologies. LANs enable efficient resource sharing, such as printers, servers, and internet access, within a limited area. Types of Networks 2.Wide Area Networks (WANs): WANs cover large geographical areas, often spanning multiple cities or even countries. They are designed to interconnect LANs and enable communication and data transfer over long distances. WANs typically utilize leased telecommunication lines, satellite links, or internet-based technologies like MPLS or VPNs to facilitate this wide-ranging connectivity. Types of Networks 3.Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs): MANs are a hybrid between LANs and WANs, covering a metropolitan area, such as a city or a region. They are larger in scale than LANs but smaller than WANs, providing high-speed data transmission and interconnecting multiple LANs within a metropolitan area. MANs often employ fiber-optic technologies to achieve their increased reach and bandwidth. Types of Networks These different network types cater to diverse needs and requirements, from the local connectivity within a small office or home to the global reach and inter-site communication required by large organizations. Understanding the characteristics and applications of each network type 3 Network Components  Server: A computer or device on a network that manages network resources. Servers are often dedicated, meaning that they perform no other tasks besides Network Components their server tasks. The following is a brief introduction to common Client: A client is an application that runs on a personal network components and devices. computer or workstation and relies on a server to perform some operations Devices: Computer devices, such as a CD-ROM drive or printer, that is not part of the essential computer. Examples of devices include disk drives, printers, and modems. Transmission Media: the type of physical system used to carry a communication signal from one system to another. Examples of transmission media include twisted- pair cable, coaxial cable, and fiber optic cable.  Hub: A common connection point for devices in a network. A hub contains multiple ports. When a packet arrives at one port, it is copied to the other ports so that all segments of the LAN can see all packets. Network Components Switch: A device that filters and forwards packets between Network Interface Card (NIC): An expansion LAN segments. Switches operate at the data board you insert into a computer so the link layer (layer 2) and sometimes the network layer (layer 3) computer can be connected to a network. of the OSI Reference Model. Most NICs are designed for a particular type of network, protocol, and media, Router: A router is a device that forwards data packets along although some can serve multiple networks. networks. A router is connected to at least two networks and is located at gateways, the places where two or more networks connect. Gateway: A node on a network that serves as an entrance to another network. Bridge: A device that connects two local-area networks (LANs), or two segments of the same LAN that use the same protocol  Network Components Switches are essential network components that Switches facilitate communication between devices on a local area network (LAN). They act as the central hub, connecting multiple devices and enabling them to exchange data. Switches intelligently manage the flow of information, ensuring that data is delivered to the intended recipient, rather than broadcasting it to all connected devices. This helps to improve network efficiency and reduce unnecessary traffic.  Access points are wireless network devices that allow Network Components devices to connect to a local area network (LAN) Access Points without the need for physical Ethernet cables. They establish a wireless network, often called a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), and enable devices such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets to access the network and the internet. Access points are crucial for providing wireless connectivity and expanding the reach of a network beyond the limitations of wired connections. Network Components Firewalls are network security devices Firewalls that monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. They act as a barrier between a private network and the public internet, protecting the network from unauthorized access, malicious attacks, and other security threats. Firewalls can be hardware- based, software-based, or a combination of both, and they play a crucial role in safeguarding the integrity and confidentiality of network communications.  Routers are the backbone of a Network Components computer network, responsible Routers for routing data between different networks and devices. They connect multiple networks, such as a local area network (LAN) and the internet, and ensure that information is transferred securely and efficiently. Routers possess multiple ports to facilitate the connection of various devices, such as computers, printers, and other network peripherals. Network Components 4 IP Address and MAC Address  IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique numerical IP Address identifier assigned to every device connected to a network, such as computers, smartphones, routers, and servers. It is the primary means of communication and identification in the digital world. IP addresses come in two main versions: IPv4 (the older and more widely used version) IPv6 (the newer and more expansive version). These addresses allow devices to send and receive data packets across the internet or local networks, enabling seamless communication and data exchange.  MAC (Media Access Control) address is a unique MAC Address hardware identifier assigned to every network interface card (NIC) in a device. Unlike IP addresses, which can change depending on the network, MAC addresses are permanently assigned to the physical network hardware and remain the same regardless of location. MAC addresses play a role in local network communication, allowing devices to identify and communicate with each other directly at the data link layer of the network stack.  Relationship between IP and MAC While IP addresses and MAC addresses serve different purposes,they work together to enable seamless network communication. When a device sends data over a network, its IP address is used to identify the destination, while the MAC address is used to deliver the data directly to the correct network interface. This process, known as address resolution, is facilitated by protocols like ARP (Address Resolution Protocol), which translate between IP and MAC addresses to ensure that data reaches its intended recipient. 5 Ping, Traceroute, and VLAN  Ping is a fundamental network diagnostic tool that allows you to test the connectivity between two devices on a network. Ping By sending small data packets and measuring the time it takes to receive a response, you can determine if a host is reachable and gauge the network's latency. Ping is particularly useful for troubleshooting issues like network outages, connectivity problems, or identifying network bottlenecks. It provides valuable insights into the overall health and performance of a network connection.  Traceroute is another essential network diagnostic tool that helps you identify the path a data packet takes from your device to a destination on the network. Traceroute It traces the route by sending packets with increasing time-to-live (TTL) values, which causes routers along the path to respond and reveal their IP addresses. Traceroute can help you pinpoint where network issues may be occurring, such as slow or unreliable connections, by highlighting the specific nodes or hops causing the problem. it can be used for troubleshooting complex network connectivity problems.  VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) is a technology that allows you to logically segment a physical network into multiple, independent logical networks. VLAN VLANs provide several benefits, including improved network security better bandwidth utilization simplified network management. By separating devices into different VLANs, you can control access, apply specific policies, and enhance the overall efficiency of your network infrastructure. VLANs are commonly used in enterprise environments to organize network traffic, improve performance, and enhance security by isolating different parts of the network. 6 DHCP  The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a network management protocol used on Internet Protocol networks whereby a DHCP server dynamically assigns an IP address and other network configuration parameters DHCP to each device on a network so they can communicate with other IP networks. A DHCP server enables computers to request IP addresses and networking parameters automatically from the Internet service provider (ISP), reducing the need for a network administrator or a user to manually assign IP addresses to all network devices. In the absence of a DHCP server, a computer or other device on the network needs to be manually assigned an IP address, or to assign itself an APIPA address, which will not enable it to communicate outside its local subnet. DHCP can be implemented on networks ranging in size from home networks to large campus networks and regional Internet service provider networks. A router or a residential gateway can be enabled to act as a DHCP server. Most residential network routers receive a globally unique IP address within the ISP network. Within a local network, a DHCP server assigns a local IP address to each device connected to the network DHCP THANK YOU KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT SECTION CUSTOMER CARE DEPARTMENT EARTHLINK TELECOMMUNICATIONS 2024 PREPARED BY: ABDULRAHMAN A.ALI AL-GBURI