Networking Basics: What is a Computer Network?

• 14 May, 2023
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Information: Networking Basics

Networking Basics will let you experience the best way to deal with online threats coming toward your networks. But how? For that, this article will explain everything from the basics to the advanced ones. Many of us don’t know about how the network crisis happened.

Because of that, issues such as the following happen. Let’s talk about what a computer network is, what its types are, and how a computer network works. Keep reading!

What is a Computer Network?

In this article, we’ll be talking about the Basics of Computer Networking. It’s a system allowing several PCs, devices & networks to provide communication and data transmission facilities to the users. Moreover, one will be able to offer to follow access.

1. Exchange Data,
2. Access Shared Docs & Facilities, and
3. Connection Building.

Here are some key aspects of networking:

1. Network Components

It consists of the following components.

1. Computers,
2. Servers,
3. Routers,
4. Switches,
5. Modems, and
6. Network Cables or Wireless Connections.

2. Network Topologies

It’s about the physical/logical layout of the device in a network. Moreover, the usual ones were involved.

1. Star,
2. Bus,
3. Ring

3. Network Protocols

These are sets of rules & standards that regulate data transmission, formation, and processing in a network. With the help of these, the network determines.

1. Addressing,
2. Data Integrity, and
3. Error Detection & Routing.

One of the most preferred protocols is TCP/IP for internet communication.

4. IP Addresses

These are unique numerical identifiers that are allotted to devices on a network. It facilitates the routing & delivery of data across the network.

5. Subnetting and Subnet Masks

Subnetting includes network division into smaller subnets. There, the subnet masks allow the selection of the network & host portions of an IP address. Subnetting keeps things neat and tidier for efficient network management and addressing.

6. Routing

It’s responsible for the transmission of data packets from source to destination across several networks.

7. Switching

It connects systems within a range of networks & facilitates communication. Moreover, they use MAC addresses to move data packets to the destination.

8. Network Security

It focuses on securing networks, data & devices from online access/ threats. Moreover, it included.

1. Firewalls,
2. Encryption,
3. Authentication,
4. Access Controls, and
5. Regular Security Updates.

9. Network Address Translation (NAT)

It allows devices to communicate on a private network with a single public IP Address. Moreover, that helps in translating private IP to Public IP Addresses, which improves network security & conversing IP Addresses.

10. Wireless Networking

It uses tech such as Wi-Fi to allow devices to connect & communicate without a wired connection.+

Types of Computer Networks

How Does a Computer Network Work?

1. Network Architecture

It involves

1. Physical Outlet of Devices,
2. The logical organisation of network components, and
3. The protocols.

2. Network Devices

It involves routers & switches, allowing the flow of data among devices within the network. Where the router builds connections between various networks, the switches allow communication among devices within the network.

3. Data Transmission

Data Transmission needs the distribution of data packets. Each one consists of a huge amount of data with IP addresses. It travels via a network from source to destination.

4. Addressing

Each device connected to the network has a unique IP Address as an ID, ensuring that authorised users get the data sent by the sender.

5. Routing

Routers test the IP in the packets & choose the best path for the packets to reach the destination.

6. Switching

The switches connect devices within the same network. With the use of MAC addresses, it moves packets to the destination. After receiving the packet, the switch tests the destination MAC address and moves the packet to a certain destination.

7. Protocols

These define rules and regulations for communication within a network. It depends on the protocols how

1. Devices Establish Connections,
2. Format Data Packets,
3. Handle Errors, and
4. Ensure reliable delivery of data.

Usual protocols include

• TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol),
• Ethernet,
• Wi-Fi, and
• DNS (Domain Name System).

8. Network Services

These offer various facilities, such as

1. File Sharing,
2. Printing,
3. Email,
4. Web Browsing, and
5. Remote Access.

9. Security

Network security is important to secure data & prevent unknown access. Some of the security measures are as follows to secure networks & reduce risks.

1. Firewalls,
2. Encryption,
3. Authentication, and
4. Access Controls.

Network Protocols and Standards

Protocols are the rules that govern data communication in networks. The most commonly used protocols include:

• TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol): Foundation of internet communication
• Ethernet: Wired network technology
• Wi-Fi: Wireless networking standard
• DNS (Domain Name System): Resolves domain names to IP addresses

Protocols ensure proper data formatting, error detection, and routing across networks.

Compare the OSI and TCP/IP models here.

Computer Network Security Basics
Network security is critical to protect data, devices, and communications from unauthorised access and cyber threats. Common security measures include:

1. Firewalls: Block unauthorised traffic
2. Encryption: Secures data in transit and at rest
3. Authentication: Verifies user and device identities
4. Access Controls: Restrict resources to authorised users
5. Regular Updates: Patch vulnerabilities to reduce risks

Frequently Asked Questions

About networking basics: learn everything about computer networking

1. What are the basics of networking?

Here are some key aspects of networking

1. Network Components,
2. Network Topologies,
3. Network Protocols,
4. IP Addresses,
5. Subnetting and Subnet Masks,
6. Routing,
7. Switching,
8. Network Security,
9. Network Address Translation (NAT), and
10. Wireless Networking.

2. What are examples of computer networks?

Some examples of computer networks are as follows.

1. Local Area Network (LAN),
2. Wide Area Network (WAN),
3. Home Network,
4. Campus Network,
5. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN),
6. Internet,
7. Virtual Private Network (VPN),
8. Intranet,
9. Extranet, and
10. Cloud Network.