Introduction to Computer Networks – Quick Notes
1. What is a Computer Network?
A computer network is a group of interconnected devices (computers, servers, IoT
devices) that communicate and share resources using protocols.
Key Purposes:
Resource sharing (printers, files, storage).
Communication (email, messaging, video calls).
Data transfer (HTTP, FTP, cloud storage).
2. Types of Networks
LAN (Local Area Network): Covers small areas (home, office).
MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): City-wide connection.
WAN (Wide Area Network): Covers countries/continents (e.g., the Internet).
PAN (Personal Area Network): Smallest, usually Bluetooth connections.
3. Network Topologies
Bus: Single backbone cable.
Star: Central hub/switch.
Ring: Devices connected in a loop.
Mesh: Every node connected to every other.
4. OSI Model – 7 Layers
Physical: Hardware, cables, signals.
Data Link: Error detection, MAC addresses.
Network: Routing, IP addressing.
Transport: Reliable delivery (TCP/UDP).
Session: Manages connections between applications.
Presentation: Data translation, encryption.
Application: User-facing services (HTTP, FTP, DNS).
5. Common Networking Devices
Router: Connects different networks.
Switch: Connects devices in a LAN, forwards based on MAC.
Hub: Basic, sends data to all devices.
Firewall: Security filter for network traffic.
