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Lecture 4

The document provides an overview of computer networks, defining them as interconnected systems that facilitate resource and information sharing. It outlines different types of networks, including LANs and WANs, and discusses the Internet as a global network. Additionally, it describes various network topologies such as bus, star, ring, and mesh, highlighting their characteristics and functionalities.

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18 views11 pages

Lecture 4

The document provides an overview of computer networks, defining them as interconnected systems that facilitate resource and information sharing. It outlines different types of networks, including LANs and WANs, and discusses the Internet as a global network. Additionally, it describes various network topologies such as bus, star, ring, and mesh, highlighting their characteristics and functionalities.

Uploaded by

mianajmal0989
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Networking and the Internet

ITC/CS/SE-301
Lecture – 4
By
Sir, Amir Ali
Information Technology Center
Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam
Introduction to Computer Networks
• Definition: A computer network is a system of interconnected
devices that communicate with each other to share resources
and information.
• Importance: Networking enables data sharing, communication,
and connectivity across different locations.
• Key Components:
• Nodes: Devices such as computers, printers, and servers.
• Links: The physical or wireless connections between nodes.
• Routers: Direct data packets between different networks.
• Switches: Manage network traffic within a network.
Introduction to Computer Networks
Types of Networks:

 LAN (Local Area Network): Covers a small


geographical area like a home, school, or
office.

 WAN (Wide Area Network): Covers large


distances, connecting multiple LANs.

 Internet: The global network


interconnecting millions of private, public,
academic, business, and government
networks.
Local Area Network (LAN)
Definition: A network limited to a small area such as a
single building or campus.

Features:
 High-speed data transfer
 Low latency
 Centralized control

Examples:
 Office network with connected computers and
printers
 Home Wi-Fi network
Wide Area Network (WAN)
Definition: A network that spans a large geographical area, often
connecting multiple LANs.

 Uses public or private telecommunication links like fiber optics or


satellites.

Examples:
 The Internet
 Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
The Internet
Definition: A vast network that connects millions of computers
worldwide.

Protocols used: TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet


Protocol)

Services provided:
• World Wide Web (WWW): Websites and online content
• Email: Communication via electronic messages
• VoIP (Voice over IP): Internet-based calling
• Streaming: Online video and audio services
Network Topologies
Bus Topology: Bus topology is a type of network topology
in which all devices (nodes) are connected to a single
central cable, known as the bus or backbone. This
backbone acts as a shared communication medium,
allowing data to be transmitted between devices.

Characteristics of Bus Topology:


1. Single Cable Connection: All nodes are connected to a central cable (backbone).
2. Terminators at Both Ends: A terminator is placed at both ends of the backbone to
prevent data reflection.
3. Broadcast Communication: Data is transmitted in both directions and received by all
nodes, but only the intended recipient processes it.
4. Limited Length: The length of the cable determines the maximum network size.
Network Topologies
• Star Topology: Star topology is a type of network
topology where all devices (nodes) are connected
to a central hub, switch, or router. This central
device manages communication between nodes and
ensures efficient data transfer.

Characteristics of Star Topology:


1. Centralized Communication: All devices communicate through a central hub or switch.
2. Point-to-Point Connections: Each node has a dedicated connection to the central
device.
3. Easier Troubleshooting: If a single device fails, the rest of the network remains
functional.
4. Scalability: Adding new devices is simple by connecting them to the hub/switch.
Network Topologies
• Ring Topology: Ring topology is a type of network
topology where each device (node) is connected to
exactly two other devices, forming a circular
pathway for data transmission. Data travels in one
or both directions around the ring until it reaches
its destination.
Characteristics of Ring Topology:
1. Circular Connection: Each node is connected to exactly two other nodes, forming a
ring.
2. Unidirectional or Bidirectional: Data can travel in one direction (unidirectional) or
both directions (bidirectional, dual-ring).
3. No Central Device: Unlike star topology, there is no central hub or switch.
Network Topologies
• Mesh Topology: Mesh topology is a network
structure where each device (node) is connected to
every other node, ensuring multiple paths for data
transmission. This topology provides high reliability
and redundancy.

Characteristics of Mesh Topology:


1. Multiple Paths: Data can take different routes to reach the destination.
2. No Central Dependency: Unlike star topology, there is no single point of failure.
3. Reliable Communication: If one link fails, data can still be transmitted through
alternate paths.
4. Scalability: New nodes can be added without disrupting the network.

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