Basics of Networking
Basics of Networking
1
Introduction to Computer
Networking
Networking is the backbone of modern communication, enabling devices to
exchange information efficiently.
2
What is a Computer Network?
• A computer network is a group of interconnected devices that communicate and
share resources.
• Examples: LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), and the
Internet.
3
Types of Networks
• LAN: Covers a small geographic area like a home, office, or building.
• WAN: Spans large geographic areas, connecting multiple LANs.
• MAN: Covers a city or campus area, larger than LAN but smaller than WAN.
• PAN: Personal Area Network connects devices within an individual’s workspace
(e.g., Bluetooth).
4
Key Networking Concepts
• IP Address: A unique identifier for a device on a network.
• MAC Address: A hardware address that identifies a device’s network interface.
• DNS: Domain Name System converts domain names to IP addresses.
5
Network Topologies
• The physical or logical arrangement of network devices.
• Types:
Star Topology: All devices connect to a central hub.
Bus Topology: Devices share a common backbone cable.
Ring Topology: Devices form a closed loop.
Mesh Topology: Devices are interconnected for redundancy.
6
Network Devices
• Router: Directs data packets between networks.
• Switch: Connects devices within a single network.
• Hub: Broadcasts data to all connected devices.
• Access Point: Provides wireless connectivity.
7
OSI Model Overview
• The Open Systems Interconnection model standardizes networking functions.
• Layers:
Application: User interface (e.g., HTTP, FTP).
Presentation: Data translation and encryption.
Session: Manages connections between applications.
Transport: Ensures reliable data delivery (e.g., TCP, UDP).
Network: Handles routing and addressing (e.g., IP).
Data Link: Handles error correction for frames.
Physical: Transmits raw bitstreams over physical media.
8
TCP/IP Model Overview
• A simplified model for network communication.
• Layers:
Application: Combines OSI’s application, presentation, and session layers.
Transport: Ensures reliable communication (e.g., TCP, UDP).
Internet: Handles logical addressing and routing (e.g., IP).
Network Access: Manages hardware and physical connections.
9
Common Protocols
• HTTP/HTTPS: For accessing web pages.
• FTP/SFTP: For file transfers.
• SMTP/IMAP: For sending and receiving emails.
• DNS: Resolves domain names to IP addresses.
• DHCP: Automatically assigns IP addresses.
10
IP Addressing Basics
• IPv4: 32-bit addressing (e.g., 192.168.1.1).
• IPv6: 128-bit addressing, designed to replace IPv4.
• Subnet Mask: Defines the network and host portions of an IP address.
11
Network Security Concepts
• Firewall: Monitors and controls incoming/outgoing traffic.
• VPN: Creates secure connections over public networks.
• Encryption: Secures data in transit.
• Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Monitors networks for malicious activity.
12
Wireless Networking
• Wi-Fi Standards: IEEE 802.11 protocols (a, b, g, n, ac, ax).
• Security Protocols: WEP (weak), WPA, WPA2, and WPA3.
• SSID: Network name for wireless connections.
13