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Israh Binoj
Israh Binoj

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Computer Network | Israh Binoj

A network means a connection between two or more computers that allows them to share resources with each other.

There are two types of networking:

  1. Logical networking : it refers to the type where networking is made possible with ip address, protocols snd subnets.

  2. Physical networking : it refers to tha actual hardware and the physical connections like cables, routers, switches etc

Basic Networking Rules

  1. Every device must have a unique IP address on the same network.

  2. Subnet masks define which IPs are in the same network.

  3. The default gateway is used to send data outside your local network.

  4. DNS translates domain names (like google.com) into IP addresses.

  5. Private IPs (like 192.168.x.x or 10.x.x.x) are for local use only.

  6. Public IPs are used to access the internet.

  7. MAC addresses are unique to network hardware (Layer 2).

  8. Switches connect devices within the same network (LAN).

  9. Routers connect different networks (LAN to WAN).

  10. Firewalls control which traffic is allowed in or out of the network.

Types of Computer Networks (CN)

Here are the main types of computer networks:

  1. PAN (Personal Area Network)
    Smallest range of network connection used to connect devices within a short range of distance, mostly around one. person.

  2. LAN (Local Area Network)
    Network that connects devices within a small geographic area such as home, school or a building.

  3. WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)
    Type of LAN that helps to connect devices without cables in a. short geographic location such as school, home or building.

  4. CAN (Campus Area Network)
    Network that connects multiple LANs in a limited geographic area

  5. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)
    Network that covers a city or large area , connects multiple lans and cans

  6. WAN (Wide Area Network)
    Network that connects computers and smaller networks within a large geographic area such as city, country or even a continent

Network Architecture

There are two main types of network architecture:

  1. Peer-to-Peer:
    All computers are equal and share resources directly. there is no central server.
    Each device can share and access resources like files, printers directly with other devices.
    eg:Bluetooth

  2. Client-Server:
    Clients request services and servers provide them.There is a central computer which provides the services the client requests.
    eg: web browsing

Need for Building a Computer Network

Technology is everywhere and acts as a helping hand for humans.
Building computer networks provides many benefits at both personal and business levels.

Personal benefits:

Smart devices and smart homes

Internet of Things (IoT)

Everyday conveniences such as online shopping and online banking

Business benefits:

Enables cloud computing

Supports hybrid and remote work

Allows instant communication and virtual meetings

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