COMPUTER NETWORK

LECTURE NOTES

NAME :MARTHA OLIVIA

ID :238-967-6525

CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY

Introduction to Computer Networks:

A computer network is a group of interconnected computers and devices that are linked
together to communicate and share resources. In this lecture, we will discuss the basics of
computer networks, including their components, types, and protocols.

Components of Computer Networks:

The main components of a computer network are:

Nodes or devices: Nodes or devices are the end points of a network that can send and receive
data. Examples include computers, servers, printers, routers, and switches.

Transmission media: Transmission media are the physical channels that carry data between
nodes. Examples include wired media (such as copper or fiber-optic cables) and wireless media
(such as radio waves or infrared signals).

Network interfaces: Network interfaces are the hardware and software components that enable
nodes to communicate with the network. Examples include network interface cards (NICs) and
network protocols.

Network services: Network services are the software applications that run on the network and
provide services to users. Examples include email, file sharing, and web browsing.
Types of Computer Networks:

Computer networks can be classified based on their geographic scope and architecture. The
main types of computer networks are:

Local Area Network (LAN): A LAN is a network that covers a small geographical area, such as a
building or a campus. It is usually owned and managed by a single organization.

Wide Area Network (WAN): A WAN is a network that covers a large geographical area, such as a
city, country, or even the world. It is usually made up of multiple LANs and is often owned and
managed by multiple organizations.

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): A MAN is a network that covers an intermediate

geographical area, such as a city or a town. It is usually owned and managed by a single
organization.

Wireless Network: A wireless network is a type of network that uses radio waves or infrared
signals to transmit data between nodes. Examples include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Internet: The Internet is a global network of networks that connects millions of devices and
users around the world. It is based on a standardized set of protocols called the Internet
Protocol suite.

Network Protocols:

Network protocols are the rules and standards that govern how data is transmitted and received
over a network. Some of the most commonly used network protocols include:

Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP): TCP/IP is a set of protocols that

enables communication between devices on the Internet.
Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP): HTTP is a protocol that governs how web pages are
transmitted over the Internet.

File Transfer Protocol (FTP): FTP is a protocol that enables file sharing between devices on a
network.

Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP): SMTP is a protocol that governs how email messages
are transmitted over a network.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, computer networks are an essential part of modern computing. They enable
communication and resource sharing between devices and users, and they provide the
backbone for the Internet. Understanding the basics of computer networks, including their
components, types, and protocols, is essential for anyone working in the field of information
technology.