CTE 244 Computer Networking
Second Semester 2023-2024 Academic Session
Engr. Usman Ishaq Karofi
B.Sc. Software Engineering (Al-Qalam University
Katsina)
[email protected] Week 9: Network Architectures and Server Concepts
Objectives:
• Understand different network architectures: point-to-point, peer-to-peer,
and client/server.
• Learn about different types of network cables and their terminations.
• Understand the various types of servers and their roles.
• Discuss server reliability, availability, and data integrity.
Network Architectures
1. Point-to-Point:
• A direct connection between two devices.
• Simplest form of network communication.
• Used in situations where only two devices need to communicate, such as a
direct cable connection between a computer and a printer.
• Example: Modem-to-router connections.
2. Peer-to-Peer (P2P):
• A network where each computer has equal status and can act as both a
client and a server.
• Suitable for small networks (e.g., home or small office).
• Simple to set up and manage, no dedicated server required.
• Disadvantages include security concerns and difficulty in managing
resources and permissions as the network grows.
Network Architectures
3. Client/Server:
• A network architecture where clients request services and resources from
centralized servers.
• Servers manage resources, provide services, and store data.
• Scalable and easier to manage in larger networks.
• Examples: web servers, file servers, database servers.
• Requires more robust hardware and administrative resources compared to
P2P.
Types of Network Cables and Terminations
1. Twisted Pair Cable:
• Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP): Commonly used in Ethernet networks,
cost-effective, and easy to install. Suitable for most LAN environments.
• Shielded Twisted Pair (STP): Provides additional shielding to reduce
electromagnetic interference (EMI). Suitable for industrial environments.
Terminations:
• RJ-45 Connectors: Used to terminate twisted pair cables for Ethernet
connections.
Types of Network Cables and Terminations
2. Coaxial Cable:
• Contains a central conductor, insulating layer, metallic shield, and outer
cover.
• Used for cable television, broadband internet, and older Ethernet networks
(Thinnet and Thicknet).
Terminations:
• BNC Connectors: Used for connecting coaxial cables in networking and
video applications.
Types of Network Cables and Terminations
3. Fiber Optic Cable:
• Uses light signals to transmit data, offering high speeds and long-distance
capabilities.
• Immune to EMI and offers high bandwidth.
• Suitable for backbone connections and high-speed data transmission.
Terminations:
• SC, ST, LC Connectors: Commonly used for terminating fiber optic cables.
Types of Network Cables and Terminations
Types of Servers
Print Server:
• Manages printers and handles print requests from clients.
• Centralizes printer management, reduces the need for multiple printers.
Mail Server:
• Handles email sending, receiving, and storage.
• Manages email accounts, filters spam, and stores messages.
File Server:
• Stores and manages files, making them accessible to clients on the network.
• Provides centralized storage, backup, and file sharing.
Types of Servers
Database Server:
• Manages databases and handles database queries and transactions.
• Provides data storage, retrieval, and management for applications.
Web Server:
• Hosts websites and serves web pages to clients over the internet or an
intranet.
• Handles HTTP requests, manages web content, and provides security
features.
Application Server:
• Hosts and runs applications, providing business logic and services to client
applications.
• Facilitates centralized application management and deployment.
Server Reliability, Availability, and Data Integrity
Server Reliability:
• Ensures servers perform consistently and without failure.
• Achieved through high-quality hardware, regular maintenance, and robust
software.
Key Factors:
• Redundant hardware: Multiple power supplies, RAID configurations for
disks.
• Regular maintenance: Software updates, hardware checks, and
performance monitoring.
• Fault tolerance: Design systems to continue functioning despite
hardware/software failures.
Server Reliability, Availability, and Data Integrity
Server Availability:
• The measure of a server's uptime and its ability to remain operational.
• Critical for business continuity and user satisfaction.
Key Factors:
• High Availability (HA) Solutions: Clustering, load balancing, and failover
mechanisms.
• Disaster Recovery Plans: Backup strategies, offsite storage, and recovery
procedures.
• Service Level Agreements (SLAs): Define expected uptime and response
times for issues.
Server Reliability, Availability, and Data Integrity
Data Integrity:
• Ensuring data is accurate, consistent, and protected from corruption or
unauthorized access.
• Crucial for maintaining trust and operational efficiency.
Key Factors:
• Backup and Restore Procedures: Regular backups, data replication, and
testing recovery processes.
• Data Validation: Checks and controls to ensure data accuracy and
consistency.
• Security Measures: Encryption, access controls, and audit trails to protect
data from unauthorized access and modification.
Suggested Reading:
• "Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach" by James F. Kurose and
Keith W. Ross
• "Network+ Guide to Networks" by Jill West, Tamara Dean, and Jean
Andrews
Assignment:
• Research and list the advantages and disadvantages of using fiber optic
cables in a network.
• Design a simple client/server network for a small business, including the
types of servers needed and their roles.
