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Networking Study Notes by Saba

This document provides an overview of computer networks, including definitions, characteristics, and common types such as LAN, MAN, and WAN. It explains network topology, how networks operate through P2P and client-server models, and describes the OSI and TCP/IP network models. Additionally, it covers data packets, their types, and error detection methods.

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12 views4 pages

Networking Study Notes by Saba

This document provides an overview of computer networks, including definitions, characteristics, and common types such as LAN, MAN, and WAN. It explains network topology, how networks operate through P2P and client-server models, and describes the OSI and TCP/IP network models. Additionally, it covers data packets, their types, and error detection methods.

Uploaded by

siwam45680
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Computer Networks - Study Notes

1. What is a Network? + Characteristics + Common Types

Definition:

A network connects two or more computers to share information and resources.

Examples:

Like friends in a group chat sharing messages, files, or pictures.

Characteristics:

1. Share files across computers.

2. Share devices like printers.

3. Centralized data storage.

4. Cost-effective setup.

Common Types of Networks:

LAN (Local Area Network): Small area like home, school, office.

MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): Covers a city.

WAN (Wide Area Network): Covers countries or the entire world.

Wireless Network: Uses signals (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) instead of cables.

2. Network Topology + Types + Advantages & Disadvantages

Definition:

Topology is the shape or layout of a network connection.

Types of Topology:

1. Bus - All computers connected in a line. Easy to set up, but one cable failure affects all.

2. Star - All connect to a central hub. Easy to troubleshoot, but hub failure stops all.

3. Ring - Forms a circle. No data clash, but failure affects the whole.

4. Mesh - Every computer connects to every other. Very reliable, expensive.

5. Tree - Like a tree with branches. Scalable, but if root fails, all fail.

6. Hybrid - Combines topologies. Flexible, complex to manage.


Computer Networks - Study Notes

3. How Does a Network Work? (P2P & Client-Server)

Basic Working:

1. Devices connect via wire or wireless.

2. Each gets an IP address.

3. Data is broken into packets.

4. Packets travel through routers/switches.

5. Data is shared (files, printers, internet).

Peer-to-Peer (P2P):

- All computers are equal.

- Simple, cheap, but not secure or scalable.

Client-Server:

- Server provides data to clients.

- Secure, manageable, but expensive and dependent on the server.

4. Network Models (OSI & TCP/IP)

Network Model:

A system of layers to send data between computers.

OSI Model (7 Layers):

1. Application - User interface (e.g., browser).

2. Presentation - Data format conversion.

3. Session - Starts/ends communication.

4. Transport - Ensures complete delivery.

5. Network - Chooses path using IP.

6. Data Link - Sends to correct device.

7. Physical - Actual hardware/wire.

TCP/IP Model (4 Layers):


Computer Networks - Study Notes

1. Application - Browser, email.

2. Transport - TCP/UDP.

3. Internet - Routing using IP.

4. Link - Physical transfer.

Comparison:

- OSI is theoretical (7 layers).

- TCP/IP is practical (4 layers).

5. Packets & Their Types

Definition:

Data is divided into small units called packets before sending.

Why Packets?

- Manageable, reduce waiting time.

- Allow error checking and sharing.

Packet Transmission:

- Uses TDM (Time Division Multiplexing).

- Sent via multiplexer, received via demultiplexer.

Packets vs Frames:

- Packet = General term.

- Frame = Structured data with header/tail.

Frame Errors:

- Missing SOH or EOT leads to discarding.

6. Error & Its Types

What is an Error?
Computer Networks - Study Notes

Data received is different from data sent.

Types of Errors:

1. Single-bit - One bit error (e.g., 1010 -> 1110).

2. Multiple-bit - Several bits wrong, not adjacent.

3. Burst - Several adjacent bits wrong.

Detection Methods:

- Parity Bit (even/odd)

- 2D Parity

- Checksum

- CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check)

Correction (not covered deeply):

- Hamming Code

- Forward Error Correction (FEC)

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