Unit 3.

Network Basics

Today, networks are everywhere and everyone wants to be connected.

Networks can be classified according to their size and geographic scope. A
network is as a spider web with many interconnecting points, referred to as node.
A network node usually contains a computer, networked peripheral or network
device. The most important network device is a router, which acts as a central
distribution point for getting data to its destination. Network devices also include
hubs, switches, gateways, bridges, wireless access points, and repeaters.
To connect to a LAN, a computer requires network circuitry, sometimes
referred to as a network interface card (NIC). Network circuitry is built into the
main system board of most personal computers. If not, a NIC can be added to a slot
in the system board or a USB port.
Data in a network with wired connections travels from one device to another
over cables. Wired connections are fast, secure and simple to configure. An
example of wired network technology is Ethernet.
A network without wires transports data through the air, eliminating the need
for cables as RF signals (radio frequency signals), microwaves, infrared light
beams. The most popular wireless LAN technologies are WI-FI and Bluetooth. WI-
FI refers to a set of wireless networking technologies defined by IEEE802.11
standards. A WI-FI device transmits data as radio waves and is compatible with
Ethernet, so you can use the two technologies in a single network. Bluetooth is a
short-range wireless network technology that is designed to make connections
between two devices and transmits data as radio waves too.
Network links must move data and move it quickly. Broadband capacity is
essential for networks that support many users, and those that carry lots of audio
and video data, such as music and movie downloads. Protocols set standards for
encoding and decoding data, guiding data to its destination. Some communications
networks (telephone systems), use a technology called circuit switching, but more
efficient is packet switching technology. A circuit switching network establishes a
dedicated connection between two devices, whereas a packet switching network
divides messages into small parcels and handles them on a first-come, first-served
basis.
The Internet infrastructure is based on high-capacity routers and
communications links referred to as the Internet backbone, tied together at network
access points where data can cross over from one NSP equipment to another. An
Internet Service provider offers Internet access to individuals, businesses, and
smaller ISPs. The Internet uses several communications protocols. Every device on
the Internet has an IP address. As a rule, computers on the Internet that act as
servers use static IP address. Most high-speed Internet connections use DSL
technology and even dynamic IP addresses might seem permanent because they do
not change unless you turn off your modem. Although IP addresses work for
communication between computers, people use an easy-to-remember name a
domain name. Every domain name corresponds to a unique IP address that has
been entered into a huge database called the Domain Name System (DNS). A
domain name server converts numeric IP addresses into familiar names. The speed
of an Internet connection measured by utilities such as Ping and Traceroute refers
to latency, the elapsed time for data to make a round trip from point A to point B.
The speed is a measure of the amount of data that travels between two points in a
given amount of time. Many Internet connections are asymetric, meaning the
downstream speed is different from the upstream speed.
Consumers have several options for connecting to the Internet. There are Fixed
Internet access, Portable Internet access (include such services as Wi-Fi, portable
satellite, and portable WiMAX), Mobile Internet access(includes mobile WiMAX
and cellular broadband service).
A dial-up connection is a fixed Internet connection that uses a voiceband
modem and telephone lines to transport data between your computer and your ISP.
DSL (digital subscriber line) is a high- speed, digital, always-on Internet access
technology that runs over standard phone lines. Cable Internet service is a means
of distributing always-on broadband Internet access over the same infrastructure
that offers cable television service. Satellite Internet service is a means of
distributing always-on, high-speed asymmetric Internet access by broadcasting
signals to and from a personal satellite dish. WI-FI is also used for public networks
operated by merchants, hotels, schools, and municipalities.
Networks with wired or wireless connections are vulnerable to a variety of
threats, including viruses, theft, and equipment failure. Many threats can be
handled using techniques for standalone computers. Network equipment should be
connected to power strips to prevent damage from power spikes. Data should be
backed up in a case of a hard drive failure and computers should be protected by
antivirus software. Wireless signals are broadcasted through the air can be picked
up by any device equipped with a receiver tuned to the right frequency. Wired
connections funnel data through a cable and wired signals can be intercepted only
by physically tapping into the cable or router.
If your network is not secured, hackers can easily connect to it, monitor
transmitted data, access connected devices, spread viruses, and use your network
as a launching pad for spam. One of the most common ways of gaining
unauthorized access to a network-based computer is by looking for open port. A
port probe (scan) is the use of automated software to locate computers that have
open ports and vulnerable to unauthorized access. You should also up to date with
the latest OS security patch and service pack. You can also install Firewall
software designed to filter out suspicious packets. Corporations try to limit
intrusions by setting up virtual private networks that offer encrypted connections
for access to a remote server.