Networking: Introduction to Computer networks, Types of networks and associated topologies

Introduction to Computer Networks: A computer network is a system of interconnected devices,

such as computers, servers, printers, and other peripherals, that communicate and share resources
with one another. The primary purpose of a computer network is to allow these devices to share
data and resources, such as files, software, and hardware components.

Types of Networks:

1. Local Area Network (LAN): A LAN is a network that covers a relatively small geographic area,
such as a single building or a group of buildings. LANs are typically used in homes, small
businesses, and schools.

2. Wide Area Network (WAN): A WAN is a network that spans a large geographic area, such as
a city, a country, or even the entire world. WANs are typically used by large organizations,
such as multinational corporations, to connect their offices and branches around the world.

3. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): A MAN is a network that covers a larger geographic area
than a LAN but smaller than a WAN. MANs are typically used in large cities or metropolitan
areas to connect multiple LANs.

4. Personal Area Network (PAN): A PAN is a network that connects devices within a small area,
typically within a few meters. Examples of PANs include Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Direct.

Associated Topologies:

1. Bus Topology: In a bus topology, all devices are connected to a single cable or "bus" that
runs from one end of the network to the other. Devices on the network can communicate
with each other by transmitting signals along the bus.

2. Star Topology: In a star topology, all devices are connected to a central hub or switch. Data is
transmitted between devices by passing through the hub or switch.

3. Ring Topology: In a ring topology, devices are connected in a circular loop. Each device is
connected to the device next to it, forming a closed loop. Data is transmitted around the
loop from one device to the next.

4. Mesh Topology: In a mesh topology, each device is connected to every other device on the
network. This creates redundant connections, which can improve network reliability and
reduce the risk of data loss.

Associated Topologies: examples

here are some examples of common topologies used in computer networks:

1. Bus Topology: This topology was commonly used in early Ethernet networks. An example of
a bus network could be a group of computers connected by a single Ethernet cable, with
each computer connecting to the cable through a network interface card.

2. Star Topology: This is the most common type of network topology used in modern Ethernet
networks. An example of a star network would be a group of computers and other devices
connected to a central switch or hub.
3. Ring Topology: This topology was commonly used in Token Ring networks. An example of a
ring network could be a group of computers connected in a circular loop, with each
computer connected to the next by a Token Ring adapter.

4. Mesh Topology: This topology is commonly used in wireless networks and some large-scale
wired networks. An example of a mesh network could be a group of wireless access points
connected to each other and to the internet, with each access point acting as a node in the
network.