Computer Networking
Computer Networking
What is computer networking?
The process of connecting computers to enable data sharing and communication is known as computer networking. A computer network, in general, consists of two or more computers. It facilitates easier communication between users.
A computer network is a system that allows information to be shared and transmitted between two or more computing devices. From a mobile phone to a server, these are all examples of computing devices. These devices can be wireless, although they are typically connected by physical lines like fiber optics.
Overview of computer networking
The U.S. Department of Defense provided funding for the creation of the first operational network, known as ARPANET, in the late 1960s. Earlier when computers were big and heavy, government researchers used to share information. Since then, we have come well beyond that simple network type. The internet, a global network of networks that links billions of devices is the center of the modern world. Networks are used by businesses of all kinds to link the devices used by their staff members with shared resources like printers.
A computer network is in use when we connect for a video call, stream media, share files, communicate via instant messaging, or simply browse the internet.
The area of computer science known as computer networking is concerned with the design, construction, and security of computer networks. It combines computer science, telecommunication, and computer engineering.
How does computer networking work?
Nodes and Links are the fundamental components that make up a computer network. A network node can be represented as either data terminal equipment, such as linking two or more computers, or as data communication equipment, such as modems and routers. A link in a computer network is any wire, cable, or open area used for wireless networks.
Simply expressed, protocols or regulations that facilitate data transmission and reception over the links that enable computer networks to communicate can be used to describe how computer networks operate. Every device has an IP address, which aids in device identification.
Key Components of Computer Network
a computer network is built with two basic blocks: nodes or network devices and links. Two or more nodes are connected by the links. Communication protocols specify how the information is sent over these links. the origin and destination devices are often called ports.
Network Devices: Computers, Mobiles, Servers, Routers
Links: wired, wireless
Communication protocols: Application layer, Transport layer, Internet layer, Network access layer
Terminologies of computer network
- Network: A network is a collection of computers and devices that are connected to enable communication and data exchange.
- Nodes: Network-connected devices are known as nodes. Computers, servers, printers, routers, switches, and other devices can be among them.
- Protocol: A collection of guidelines and standards that control data transmission over a network is known as a protocol. Protocols encompass things like HTTP, FTP, and TCP/IP
- Topology: The logical and physical configuration of a network’s nodes is referred to as its topology. Typical network topologies consist of the following: bus, star, ring, mesh, and tree.
- Service Provider Networks: These networks allow users to lease network functionality and capacity from the provider. Networks of service providers include those for data carriers, wireless communications, etc.
- IP Address: Each device on a network is given an IP address, which is a special numerical identity. Devices can identify one another and communicate with one another thanks to IP addresses.
- DNS: Domain Name System (DNS) is a mechanism that converts computer-understandable IP addresses into human-readable domain names (e.g., www.google.com).
- Firewall: An inbound and outgoing network’s traffic is monitored and managed by a firewall, a security tool. Networks are shielded by firewalls from security risks and illegal access.
Common Networking Technologies
LAN (Local Area Network)
MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)
WAN (Wide Area Network)
SAN (Storage Access Network)
CAN (campus area Network)
EPN (Enterprise Private Network)
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
SDN (Software Defined Network)
Point-to-point Network
Multi-Point Network
Cloud Network
Types of Computer Network Architecture
Computer Networks come into the following general categories:
- Client-Server Architecture: This kind of computer network architecture allows nodes to function as either servers or clients. The client node behavior can be controlled here by the server node.
- Peer-to-Peer Architecture: Central servers are not a concept in P2P (Peer-to-Peer) architecture. Every device can function as a server or a client at no cost.
What computer networking is all about?
Objectives of computer networking
- Sharing of resources
Critical assets are shared among divisions, locations, and time zones in today’s globalized businesses. Customers are no longer restricted by location. Every relevant user can access hardware and data thanks to a network. This facilitates the processing of data across departments as well. To facilitate top-level executive choices, the marketing team, for instance, analyzes customer data and product development cycles.
- Safe online access
Computer networks encourage adaptability, which is critical in unpredictable times like now when pandemics and natural calamities are wreaking havoc on the globe. Users can safely access and work on important data even while they are not on corporate property thanks to a secure network. Multiple stages of authentication are even enabled by mobile portable devices that are registered with the network, ensuring that malicious actors cannot access the system.
- Greater capacity for storage
Employees who handle large amounts of data will find great benefits from network-attached storage devices. For instance, the enormous volume of records that the data science team crunches eliminates the need for unique data warehouses for each member. Centralized repositories accomplish the task even more quickly. These days, organizations are receiving record amounts of client data in their systems, so being able to expand storage capacity is essential.
- Reliability and availability of resources
A network makes sure that resources are available from several locations and are not isolated in unreachable divisions. Because there are typically many supply authorities, there is great reliability. It is necessary to backup critical resources to several computers so they may be accessed in the event of an emergency, such as a hardware failure.
- Management of performance
The workload of an organization only expands. The system performs better overall and can handle this increase when one or more processors are added to the network. A well-designed database can significantly reduce lookup and retrieve times.
- Financial savings
Adding processors at key junctures in the system makes more sense because large mainframe computers are an expensive investment. Saving money and enhancing performance are two benefits of this. Networks reduce operating time and expenses because they allow workers to access information quickly. Less money needs to be spent on IT assistance thanks to centralized network administration.
- Simplified communication & cooperation
Networks play a significant role in the everyday activities of an organization. Workers can effectively share files, view each other’s work, synchronize calendars, and communicate ideas. Internal chat platforms like Slack facilitate the free exchange of ideas and information within any modern organization. Emails are still the official means of communication with partners, customers, and suppliers, though.
- Error reduction
By guaranteeing that all participants obtain information from a single source—regardless of where they are accessing it—networks help to minimize errors. Data backups offer continuity and consistency. It is relatively easy to make standard copies of employee and customer manuals available to a large number of individuals
Security in Networking
What does Network Security mean?
The broad phrase “network security” refers to safeguarding computer networks and data from breaches, hacks, intrusions, and other threats.
Measures Taken
Businesses use both software and hardware security techniques to protect their data and computer networks. This comprises settings and controls intended to guarantee the network’s secrecy, integrity, and accessibility.
Network Security’s Significance
To protect the data on a computer network and preserve its integrity, network security is essential. It guarantees the network’s effectiveness and stops illegal access and data breaches.
Multi-Layered Approach
A strong network security plan uses a multi-layered approach, setting controls in place at different network nodes. Comprehensive threat and access control are offered by this method.
Guidelines and Configurations
Network security is fundamentally about setting up configurations and policies. These are intended to safeguard computer networks and data’s accessibility, integrity, and confidentiality.
Topologies in computer network
Topologies in computer networks specify how components are arranged and connected. There are various kinds of network topologies:
Bus Topology: One communication line is shared by all devices.
Ring Topology: A circular network connects the devices.
Star Topology: Every device is linked to a central hub.
Mesh Topology: Devices are interconnected, providing multiple paths
Tree Topology: Multi-level hierarchical structure.
Emerging Trends
Machine learning (ML)
Internet of Things (IoT)
Adoption of 5G and Wi-Fi 6 technology.
Cloud computing, virtual reality, and augmented reality.
DevOps procedures.
Computer networking v/s computer science
The area of computer science known as computer networking is concerned with the design, construction, and security of computer networks. It combines computer science, telecommunication, and computer engineering.
Is computer networking a good career?
Yes, there are many job opportunities in computer networking and it’s regarded as a respectable career. Network support specialists, network technicians, network administrators, field service engineers, computer systems analysts, and other positions are available to professionals in this industry. Network administrator and computer systems analyst are among the top 10 IT professions. The career outlook is typically favorable due to the increasing demand for qualified network professionals.
Why computer networking is important?
Conclusion
computer networking is the foundation of our increasingly interconnected world. It is clear from our exploration of the foundations and complexities of this discipline that networks are much more than just cables and routers; they are essential to contemporary communication, teamwork, and resource sharing.
The field of computer networking has had significant advancements over the years, including the introduction of network protocols, the rise of 5G technologies, and the growing significance of artificial intelligence and machine learning. These developments highlight how dynamic the networking environment is.
Furthermore, it is impossible to exaggerate the value of a strong networking infrastructure for organizations. It not only makes communication easier but also gives businesses the tools they need to succeed in the digital era. It becomes evident as we explore the topics of cloud computing, and IoT security that networking is a constantly developing field that promotes connectivity, efficiency, and scalability.
Essentially, computer networking is a force for advancement and a spark for the future, not merely a component of technology. One thing is certain as we traverse the complexity of network security and welcome the quick changes in this field: going through the enormous world of computer networking is an adventure that never ends, full of boundless opportunities and constant growth and improvement.
A computer network is a system that allows information to be shared and transmitted between two or more computing devices.
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