NETWORK

BY HARSHIKA FROM GRADE 7-A

 WHAT IS A NETWORK?
 A network is essentially a group 1. Broadcasting: A group of
or system of interconnected broadcasting stations that
people, devices, or things. Here connect for the simultaneous
are a few key definitions: broadcast of a program.
1. General Definition: An  For example, your home Wi-Fi
arrangement of intersecting network connects various devices
horizontal and vertical lines, or a like your computer, smartphone,
group/system of interconnected and printer to the internet,
people or things. allowing them to communicate
and share resources.
2. Technology: In information
technology, a network refers to
the connection of at least two
computer systems, either by a
cable or a wireless
connection. This allows for the
exchange of data and sharing of
resources.
 TYPES OF NETWORKS
 There are several types of networks, each serving different
purposes and covering various geographical areas. Here are some
of the most common types:
 1.Local Area Network (LAN): This network covers a small
geographic area, like a home, office, or building. LANs are used
to connect personal computers and workstations to share
resources and information.
 2.Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): This type of network spans
a larger geographic area than a LAN, such as a city or a large
campus. MANs are used to connect multiple LANs within a
metropolitan area.
 3.Wide Area Network (WAN): WANs cover a broad area, such as
a country or continent. The Internet is the largest WAN,
connecting millions of LANs and other networks worldwide.
 NETWORK TOPOLOGIES
 1. Bus Topology: All devices are connected to a single central
cable, known as the bus or backbone.
 2. Star Topology: All devices are connected to a central hub or
switch.
 3. Ring Topology: Devices are connected in a circular fashion,
with each device having exactly two neighbors.
 4. Mesh Topology: Devices are interconnected, with multiple
paths for data to travel.
 5. Tree Topology: A hybrid topology that combines
characteristics of star and bus topologies. It has a root node and
all other nodes are connected in a hierarchical manner.
 6. Hybrid Topology: A combination of two or more different
types of topologies.
 NETWORK SECURITY
 Network security is crucial for  for suspicious activities, while
protecting the integrity, regular updates and patches
confidentiality, and availability ensure that vulnerabilities are
of data within a network. It addressed promptly. By
involves implementing various prioritizing network security,
measures to safeguard against organizations can protect
unauthorized access, cyber sensitive information, maintain
threats, and data breaches. Key user trust, and ensure the
security practices include the use smooth operation of their
of firewalls to block unauthorized network infrastructure.
traffic, encryption to protect
data during transmission, and
antivirus software to detect and
remove malicious programs.
Additionally, intrusion detection
systems (IDS) monitor network
traffic
 NETWORK PROTOCOLS
 Network protocols are essential  FTP allows for the transfer of
for ensuring effective files between computers, while
communication and data SMTP is used for sending emails.
exchange between devices in a Security protocols like SSL/TLS
network. These protocols define and IPsec protect data integrity
the rules and conventions for and confidentiality during
data transmission, enabling transmission. By adhering to
devices from different these standardized protocols,
manufacturers and with networks can achieve
different architectures to interoperability, security, and
communicate seamlessly. Key efficient data management,
protocols include TCP/IP, which making them indispensable for
is the backbone of the internet, modern communication systems.
facilitating reliable data transfer
and routing. HTTP/HTTPS
protocols are crucial for web
browsing, ensuring secure and
 NETWORK DEVICES
 Network devices are the  transmission over telephone lines
hardware components that and vice versa, enabling internet
facilitate communication and connectivity. Other important
data exchange within a network. devices include access points,
Key devices include routers, which provide wireless
which direct data packets connectivity, and firewalls,
between different networks, which protect the network from
ensuring they reach their unauthorized access and cyber
intended destinations efficiently. threats. Together, these devices
Switches connect multiple form the backbone of network
devices within a single network, infrastructure, enabling seamless
using MAC addresses to forward and secure communication.
data to the correct device,
thereby enhancing network
performance and reducing
collisions. Modems play a crucial
role in converting digital data
ADVANTAGES ON NETWORKING
 Networking offers numerous  Additionally, networks are highly
advantages that enhance both scalable, making it easy to add
personal and organizational new devices and users without
productivity. One of the primary significant changes to the
benefits is resource sharing, existing infrastructure. This
which allows multiple devices to scalability supports business
access shared resources such as growth and adaptability. Overall,
printers, files, and internet networking not only streamlines
connections, reducing costs and operations but also fosters
improving efficiency. Networking innovation and connectivity in
also facilitates seamless today’s digital world.
communication through emails,
instant messaging, and video
conferencing, enabling real-time
collaboration regardless of
geographical distances.
 CONCLUSION
 In conclusion, understanding the  further highlight its importance
fundamentals of networking is in fostering innovation and
essential in today’s connectivity. As we continue to
interconnected world. Networks rely on digital communication, a
enable efficient resource sharing, solid grasp of networking
seamless communication, and principles will empower us to
robust security measures, all of navigate and optimize our
which are critical for both technological landscape
personal and professional effectively.
environments. By exploring the
various types of networks,
topologies, protocols, and devices,
we gain a comprehensive view of
how data is transmitted and
managed. The advantages of
networking, such as scalability
and cost-effectiveness,