Computer Network Basics: Concepts, Types, and Hardware
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Understanding Computer Networks
A network is created when more than one device is connected together. A network can be a small collection of computers connected within a building (e.g., a school, business, or home) or it can be a wide collection of computers connected around the world.
Data Packet Transmission
The main purpose of networking is to share data between computers. A file has to be broken up into small chunks of data known as data packets in order to be transmitted over a network. The data is then rebuilt once it reaches the destination computer. Networking hardware is required to connect computers and manage how data packets are communicated. Protocols are used to control how data is transmitted across networks.
Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs)
Local Area Network (LAN)
A LAN (Local Area Network) is a network of computers within the same building, such as a school, home, or business. A LAN is not necessarily connected to the internet.
Wide Area Network (WAN)
A WAN (Wide Area Network) is created when LANs are connected. This requires media such as broadband cables, and can connect organisations based in different geographical places. The internet is a WAN.
Network Topologies
There are different ways of setting up a LAN, each with different benefits in terms of network speed and cost. Three of the main topologies include:
- Bus
- Star
- Ring
Bus Network Topology
In a bus network, all the workstations, servers, and printers are joined to one cable, often referred to as 'the bus'. At each end of the cable, a terminator is fitted to stop signals reflecting back along the bus.
Wired vs. Wireless Network Connections
Wired Connections
Computers can be connected through Ethernet cables which connect to the Ethernet port. Connecting hardware such as a router has Ethernet ports.
Wireless Connections
Computers can make a wireless connection if they have a wireless NIC (Network Interface Card). A wireless router provides a connection with the physical network. A device needs to be within range of the router to gain access. A wireless connection uses radio signals to send data across networks. The wireless adapter converts the data into a radio signal, and the wireless receiver decodes it so that the computer can understand it.
Essential Networking Hardware
Computers need networking hardware in order to connect to each other. Key pieces of networking equipment include:
These devices perform slightly different tasks. A router can often incorporate hubs, switches, and wireless access within the same hardware.
Network Device Addressing
Data packets include the addresses of the devices they are going to and coming from. Computers need a network interface card to connect to a network. All devices on a network have a MAC address (Media Access Control address).