Data Communication and
Computer Networks
An Introduction for Class 8
Introduction to Computer Networks
What is a Computer Network?
A computer network is a group of two or more computers
that are linked together to share resources, exchange files,
and allow electronic communications.
The computers on a network may be linked through cables,
telephone lines, radio waves, satellites, or infrared light beams.
Why do we need Networks?
To share resources like printers and storage devices
To communicate
with others through email, messaging, etc.
To share information through file sharing
To save costs Did you know? The Internet is the largest computer network
by sharing expensive hardware and software
in the world, connecting billions of devices globally!
To centralize data for better management and security
Types of Computer Networks - Overview
Computer networks are classified based on their size,
geographical coverage , and purpose . The main types
include:
PAN (Personal Area Network)
Smallest network covering a range of about 10 meters.
LAN (Local Area Network)
Covers a small area like a home, school, or office building.
MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)
Spans a city or large campus, larger than LAN but smaller
than WAN.
WAN (Wide Area Network)
Covers a large geographical area, often connecting countries.
Local Area Network (LAN)
A Local Area Network (LAN) is a computer network that
connects devices within a limited area such as a home,
school, office building, or group of buildings.
Key Characteristics
Coverage: Small geographical area (building or campus)
Speed: High data transfer rates (10 Mbps to 10 Gbps)
Security: Higher security due to limited access
Cost: Relatively inexpensive to set up and maintain
Technology: Uses Ethernet or Token-ring technology
Common Examples
School computer labs
Home networks connecting multiple devices
Office networks in a single building
Wide Area Network (WAN)
What is a WAN?
A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a computer network that
extends over a large geographical area, often connecting
different cities, countries, or even continents.
Characteristics of WAN
Large Coverage: Spans across cities, countries, or
continents
Connection: Uses telephone lines, satellite links, or
fiber optic cables
Speed: Generally slower than LANs due to longer
distances
Cost: More expensive to set up and maintain
Introduction to Transmission Media
What is Transmission Media?
Transmission media is the physical path through which data
is transmitted from one device to another in a network.
It acts as a channel that carries the data in the form of
signals between communicating devices.
Types of Transmission Media
Guided Media (Wired)
Physical solid media where signals are confined to a specific
path.
Examples: Twisted pair cable, Coaxial cable, Fiber optic cable
Unguided Media (Wireless)
Transmission media without physical boundaries where
signals travel through air.
Examples: Radio waves, Microwaves, Infrared
Types of Physical Transmission Media
Guided media (wired) refers to physical cables where signals
are directed and confined in a narrow pathway. They offer
high speed, security, and are used for shorter distances.
Twisted Pair Cable
Two insulated copper wires twisted around each other. Types
include:
UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair)
: Used in telephone lines and Ethernet networks
STP (Shielded Twisted Pair)
: Has additional shielding to reduce interference
Coaxial Cable
Has a central copper conductor surrounded by insulation and
a braided metal shield. Used in:
Cable television networks
Internet connections
Longer distance telephone lines
Types of Wireless Transmission Media
Wireless (Unguided) Media transmit signals without using
physical conductors. Signals are broadcasted through air and
are generally less secure than guided media.
Radio Waves
Frequency Range: 3KHz - 1GHz
Can penetrate through buildings and obstacles
Antennas need not be aligned
Used in AM/FM radios and cordless phones
Microwaves
Frequency Range: 1GHz - 300GHz
Line of sight transmission
Antennas must be properly aligned
Used in mobile communications and TV distribution
Susceptible to weather conditions
Emerging Technologies
Modern networking is evolving with several emerging
technologies that are changing how we connect and process
data.
Internet of Things (IoT)
A network of physical devices embedded with sensors,
software, and connectivity that enables them to connect and
exchange data.
Examples: Smart homes, wearable fitness trackers, smart cities
Embedded Systems
Dedicated computer systems designed for specific functions
within larger mechanical or electrical systems.
Examples: Microcontrollers in washing machines, car engines, medical equipment
Edge Computing
Computing that takes place at or near the source of data,
reducing latency and bandwidth use.
Conclusion
Key Takeaways
Computer Networks connect devices to share
resources and information, with different types (LAN,
MAN, WAN) serving different geographical areas.
Transmission Media are the physical or wireless
channels through which data travels, each with unique
advantages for specific use cases.
Wireless Technologies provide flexibility and
mobility, while wired connections offer greater security
and reliability.
Emerging Technologies like IoT, embedded systems,
edge computing, and data analytics are shaping the
future of networking.
Remember
