Computer Networking Basics

Networking:

What is Computer Networking?

Computer networking is the practice of connecting computers and other devices to share resources like data, files, internet, printers, etc.

Types of Networks

LAN (Local Area Network) – Covers a small area (e.g., home, office).

WAN (Wide Area Network) – Covers large geographic areas (e.g., the internet).

MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) – Covers a city or campus.

PAN (Personal Area Network) – For personal devices (e.g., Bluetooth).

Basic Networking Devices:

Router: Connects different networks, directs data packets.

Switch: Connects devices within a LAN.

Hub: Broadcasts data to all connected devices (rarely used now).

Modem: Converts digital data to analog for transmission over phone lines.

Access Point: Provides wireless connectivity.

Common Networking Terms:

IP Address: Unique identifier for a device on a network.

MAC Address: Hardware address of a network interface.

DNS (Domain Name System): Translates domain names to IP addresses.

Protocol: Set of rules for communication (e.g., TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP).

Key Protocols:

TCP/IP: Core protocol for the internet.

HTTP/HTTPS: Used for web traffic.

FTP: Transfers files.

SMTP/POP3/IMAP: Email communication.

Basic Topologies:

Bus, Star, Ring, Mesh – Ways devices are connected in a network.