Introduction to

Telecommunications and
Networks
Welcome to our exploration of telecommunications and
networks, where we'll unravel the fascinating world of
transmitting information over distance. From the telegraph
to the Internet, we'll trace the evolution of these
technologies and understand their profound impact on the
modern world.
by Angelie Bendoy
What is a Network? - Defining Key Concepts
Definition

A network is a group of interconnected devices capable of exchanging information. These devices can
include computers, smartphones, servers, and even Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
Types of Networks: Expanding the Scope

1 LAN (Local Area Network) 2 WAN (Wide Area Network)

Connects devices within a limited area, like Spans a larger geographical area, often
an office or home. connecting multiple LANs.

3 MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) 4 PAN (Personal Area Network)

Covers a city or metropolitan area, providing Short-range network connecting personal

high-speed connectivity. devices, like Bluetooth headphones.
Components of a Telecommunication System:
The Big Picture

1 The communication starts 2 The signal then travels 3 A receiver, like a computer
with a sender, the device through a transmission or smartphone, picks up
initiating the transmission. medium, like a cable or the signal.
radio waves.

4 Protocols, like TCP/IP, define the rules of 5 Finally, the message, which can be text,
communication. audio, or video, reaches its destination.
Senders and Receivers:
Devices in Action
Telecommunication systems rely on devices acting as
senders and receivers. Senders, like phones, computers, and
cameras, originate signals, while receivers, like speakers,
monitors, and microphones, pick them up. These devices are
interconnected, enabling seamless communication.

Senders Receivers

Transmit signals through Capture and decode signals

various mediums, like radio to produce meaningful
waves or cables. information.
Senders and Receivers: Devices in Action

Smartphones Computers

Smartphones are powerful senders, enabling text Computers act as both senders and receivers,
messages, calls, and data uploads. facilitating emails, file transfers, and streaming
data.

IoT Devices Servers

IoT devices like smart thermostats and GPS Servers receive requests, deliver web pages, and
trackers send sensor data. store data.

Network Printers Smart TVs

Network printers receive print jobs from Smart TVs receive streaming video content from
connected devices. various sources.
Transmission Mediums:
Wired and Wireless

Wired mediums include Wireless mediums like radio

coaxial cables for cable TV, waves power Wi-Fi,
twisted pair cables for Bluetooth, and cellular
Ethernet, and fiber optic networks. Microwaves are
cables for high-speed data used for satellite
transmission over long communication and radar
distances. systems, while infrared is
used for remote controls and
short-range communication.
Network Topologies: Architectures and Layouts
Bus Topology 1
All devices are connected to a single cable.

2 Star Topology

Devices are connected to a central hub or switch, the most

common network topology.
Ring Topology 3
Devices are connected in a closed loop, less common today.

4 Mesh Topology

Every device is connected to every other device, providing

high redundancy.
Network Topologies: Architectures and Layouts

Bus Topology Star Topology Ring Topology Mesh Topology

All devices share a Devices connect to a Devices are connected Highly redundant, every
single cable, simple and central hub or switch, in a closed loop, data device connects to
cost-effective, but most common, reliable flows in one direction, every other, expensive
vulnerable to data and easy to manage. less common today. to implement but highly
collisions. reliable.
Network Protocols: The Language of Communication

Transmission Control Protocol (TCP/IP)

The foundation of the Internet, enabling reliable data transmission and address/routing.

Hyper Text Transfer Protocol (HTTP)

Used for web browsing, transferring web pages, and content.

File Transfer Protocol (FTP)

Used for transferring files between computers.

Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP)

Used for sending email messages.

Domain Name System (DNS)

Translates domain names to IP addresses, making website access user-friendly.

Network Hardware: Routers, Switches, and Firewall

Routers Switches Firewalls

Connect local area networks Connect devices within a LAN. Protect networks from
(LANs) to the internet. unauthorized access.
Forward data packets to the
Determine the best path for data intended recipient. Filter network traffic based on
packets. security rules.
Real-World Telecommunication Networks: Example
Mobile Cellular Networks

4G LTE and 5G networks rely

The Internet
2 on base stations, mobile
devices, and core networks.
Connecting billions of devices
globally, with complex
1
backbone networks, ISPs, and Enterprise Networks
content delivery networks.
Companies use LANs and
WANs to connect offices, data
3
centers, and remote
employees.
Summary and Conclusion
In conclusion, telecommunications networks are the
backbone of modern communication and data exchange,
enabling us to connect and interact globally. Understanding
these networks, their components, and their evolution is
essential for navigating the ever-evolving digital world. As
we look ahead, we can anticipate exciting developments in
6G technology, the expansion of the IoT, edge computing,
and network virtualization.