Communication Network

Foundations 1

Information Technology Department

Faculty of Informatics and Design
Mr. Martin. Mandioma
Phone: +21 460 3675
E-mail: mandiomam@cput.ac.za
www.cput.ac.za

Introduction to Networking:
Objectives
List

the advantages of networked computing

relative to stand-alone computing.
Distinguish between client/server and peer-topeer networks.
List elements common to all client/server
networks.
Describe several specific uses for a network
Identify some of the certifications available to
networking professionals.
Identify the kinds of skills and specializations
that will help you excel as a networking
professional.

Introduction to Networking
a network is a group of computers and other
devices (such as printers) that are connected
by some type of transmission media.
A network can be as small as two computers
connected
by a cable in a home office or as large as
several thousand computers connected
across the world via a combination of cable,
phone lines, and cellular links. In addition to
connecting personal computers, networks
might link mainframe computers, printers,
plotters, fax machines, and phone systems.

Why use networks

Networks

enable multiple users to share

devices and data (network resources).
Allows management or administration of
resources on multiple computers from a
central location.
Increases productivity.

Types of networks- Peer to Peer

Peer to Peer NetworksAdv

They

are simple to configure. For this reason,

they may be used in environments in which
time or technical expertise is scarce.
They are often less expensive to set up and
maintain than other types of networks.
This fact makes them suitable for
environments in which saving money is
critical.

Peer to Peer NetworksDisAdv

They

are not very flexible. As a peer-to-peer

network grows larger, adding or changing
significant elements of the network may be
difficult.
They are also not necessarily secure in
simple installations, data and other
resources shared by network users can be
easily discovered and used by unauthorized
people.
They are not practical for connecting more
than a handful of computers because they
do not always centralize resources.

Client/Server Network
A

network that uses a server to enable

clients to share data, data storage space,
and devices is known as a client/server
network.
client/server architecture is sometimes
used to refer to the design of a network in
which clients rely on servers for resource
sharing and processing.

Client/Server Network

Client/Server Network
A NOS (Network Operating System) is a special
type of software designed to do the following:
Manage data and other resources for a number of
clients.
Ensure that only authorized users access the
network.
Control which type of files a user can open and
read.
Restrict when and from where users can access
the network.
Dictate which rules computers will use to
communicate.
Supply applications to clients.

Adv Client/Server Network

User

logon accounts and passwords for anyone on a

server-based network can be assigned in one place.
Access to multiple shared resources (such as data
files or printers) can be centrally granted to a single
user or groups of users.
Problems on the network can be monitored,
diagnosed, and often fixed from one location.
Servers are optimized to handle heavy processing
loads and dedicated to handling requests from
clients, enabling faster response time.
Because of their efficient processing and larger disk
storage, servers can connect more than a handful
of computers on a network.

LANs , MANs & WANs

LAN

(local area network) is a network of

computers and other devices that is confined to
a relatively small space, such as one building or
even one office.
A network that is larger than a LAN and
connects clients and servers from multiple
buildingsfor example, a handful of government
offices surrounding a state capitol buildingis
known as a MAN (metropolitan area network).
A network that connects two or more
geographically distinct LANs or MANs is called a
WAN (wide area network).

Interconnected LANs

Simple LAN

Elements on Client/Server
ClientA

computer on the network that

requests resources or services from another
computer on a network; in some cases, a
client could also act as a server. The term
client may also refer to the human user of a
client workstation or to client software
installed on the workstation.
ServerA computer on the network that
manages shared resources; servers usually
have more processing power, memory, and
hard disk space than clients. They run
network operating software that can manage
not only data, but also users, groups,
security, and applications on the network.

Elements on Client/Server

WorkstationA

personal computer (such as a desktop

or laptop), which may or may not be connected to a
network; most clients are workstation computers.
NIC (network interface card)The device (pronounced
nick) inside a computer that connects a computer to the
network media, thus allowing it to communicate with
other computers; many companies (such as Intel,
Linksys, and Netgear) manufacture NICs, which come
with a variety of specifications that are tailored to the
requirements of the workstation and the network. Some
connect to the motherboard, which is the main circuit
that controls the computer, some are integrated as part
of the motherboard, and others connect via an external
port

NIC (network interface

card)

Elements on Client/Server
NOS

(network operating
system)The
software that runs on a server and enables
the server to manage data, users, groups,
security, applications, and other networking
functions. Examples include various types of
UNIX and Linux operating systems, Microsoft
Windows Server 2008 R2, and Mac OS X
Server.
HostA computer that enables resource
sharing by other computers on the same
network.
NodeA client, server, or other device that
can communicate over a network and that is
identified by a unique number, known as its

Elements on Client/Server
Connectivity

deviceA specialized device

that allows multiple networks or multiple
parts of one network to connect and
exchange data.
A small client/server
network can operate without connectivity
devices. However, medium- and large-sized
LANs use them to extend the network and to
connect with WANs. WANs use them to
connect with the Internet and with other
WANs.

Elements on Client/Server
SegmentA

part of a network. Usually, a

segment is composed of a group of nodes that
use the same communications channel for all
their traffic.
BackboneThe part of a network to which
segments and significant shared devices (such
as routers, switches, and servers) connect. A
backbone is sometimes referred to as a
network of networks because of its role in
interconnecting smaller parts of a LAN or WAN.

Backbone

Topology
TopologyThe

physical layout of a
computer
network.
Topologies
vary
according to the needs of the organization
and available hardware and expertise.
Networks can be arranged in a ring, bus, or
star formation, and the star formation is
the most common. Hybrid combinations of
these patterns are also possible

Topology

Elements on Client/Server
Network
ProtocolA

standard method or format for

communication between networked
devices. For example, some protocols
ensure that data are transferred in sequence
and without error from one node on the
network to another
PacketA distinct unit of data exchanged
between nodes on a network. Breaking a
large stream of data into many packets
allows a network to deliver that data more
efficiently and reliably.
AddressingThe scheme for assigning a
unique identifying number to every node on
the network. The type of addressing used
depends on the networks protocols and

Elements on Client/Server
Network
Transmission

mediaThe means through

which data are transmitted and received.
Transmission media may be physical, such
as
wire
or
cable,
or
atmospheric
(wireless),such as radio waves

Transmission Media

Network uses in
organisations

The functions provided by a network are

usually referred to as network services.
Printer sharing, file sharing, Internet access
and Web site delivery, remote access
capabilities,
the
provision
of
voice
(telephone) and video services, and network
management are all critical business
functions provided through networks

File and Print Services

The term file services refers to a servers ability to

share data files, applications (such as word-processing
or spreadsheet programs), and disk storage space.
A server that provides file services is called a file
server.
It is easier and faster to store shared data at a central
location than to copy files to disks and then pass the
disks around.
Data stored at a central location is typically more
secure because a network administrator can take
charge of backing up this data, rather than relying on
individual users to make their own copies. a file server
to run applications for multiple users requires the
purchase of fewer copies of the application and less
maintenance work for the network administrator.

Access Services
A networks access services allow remote users to
connect to the network. (The term remote user refers to a
person working on a computer on a different network or
in a different geographical location from the LANs
server.)
access services allow network users to connect to
machines outside the network.
Most NOS include built-in access services that enable
users to dial in to a remote access server, log on to the
network, and take advantage of the network just as if
they were logged on to a workstation on the office LAN.
access services to provide LAN connectivity for workers
at home, workers on the road, and workers at small
satellite offices where dedicated WAN connections are
not cost effective.

Access Services
Remote

access serversno matter which

platform (hardware or operating system
software) they run onallow external users
to use network resources and devices just as
if they were logged on to a workstation in
the office.
From a remote location, users can print files
to shared printers, log on to hosts, retrieve
mail from an internal
messaging system, or run queries on internal
databases

Communications Services
Networks

can help users communicate in many ways:

e-mail, telephone, video, fax, cell phone, smartphone
(for example, an iPhone), and personal digital
assistant (for example, a BlackBerry).
convergence refers to using the same network to
deliver multiple types of communications services.
unified communications refers to the centralized
management of multiple network-based
communications.
The oldest network communications services are mail
services, which coordinate the storage and transfer of
e-mail between users on a network.
The computer responsible for mail services is called a
mail server.

Functions of the mail

server
Sending,

receiving, and storing mail.

Intercept or filter unsolicited e-mail, known
as spam.
Find objectionable content in e-mails and do
something about that content, such as
flagging it to make the recipient aware of it.
Route messages according to particular
rules. For example, if a technical support
representative has not opened a customers
message within 15 minutes of delivery, a
mail server could automatically forward the
message to a supervisor.
Provide a Web-based client for checking email.

Functions of the mail

server
Notify

administrators or users if certain events

occur, such as a users mailbox exceeding its
maximum amount of space on a server.
Schedule e-mail transmission, retrieval,
storage, and maintenance functions.
Communicate with mail servers on other
networks so that mail can be exchanged
between users who do not connect to the
same LAN.
a mail server runs specialized mail server
software, examples of which include Sendmail
and Microsoft Exchange Server

Internet Services
Web

server is a computer installed with the

appropriate software to supply Web pages to
many different clients upon demand.
The most popular Web server software is
Apache. Its used to deliver more than 60
percent of Web pages on the Internet. Other
include IIS
Internet services include file transfer
capabilities, Internet addressing schemes,
security filters, and a means for directly
logging on to other computers on the
Internet.

Management Services
When

networks were small and simple, a single

network administrator could manage the entire
network.
For instance, suppose a user called to report a problem
logging on to the network and that the administrator
diagnosed the problem as an addressing conflict (that
is, two workstations having the same network
address). In a very small network, the conflicting
workstations might be located right around the corner
from each other, and one address could be changed
quickly.
As networks grow larger and more complex, however,
they become more difficult to manage.
Network management services can help you keep
track of a large network.

Category of network
management services
Traffic

monitoring and controlDetermining how much

traffic, or data transmission activity, is taking place on
a network and notifying administrators when the
network becomes overloaded. In general, the larger the
network, the more critical it is to monitor traffic.
Load balancingDistributing data transfer activity
evenly so that no single device becomes overwhelmed.
Load balancing is especially important for networks in
which its difficult to predict the number of requests
that will be issued to a server, as is the case with Web
servers.
Hardware diagnosis and failure alertDetermining
when a network component fails and automatically
notifying the network administrator through an e-mail
or text.

Category of network
management services
Asset

managementCollecting and storing

data on the number and types of software
and hardware assets in an organizations
network. With asset management software,
a server can electronically examine each
clients
software
and
hardware
and
automatically save the data in a database.
Other types of assets might be identified and
tracked using RFID (Radio Frequency
Identification) tags, which emit a wireless
signal at all times. Wireless detection
devices connected to a network can track
the locations of RFID-tagged devices. For
example, a hospital might use RFID tags to
keep track of the wheelchairs, beds, and IV

Category of network management services

License

trackingDetermining how many copies

of a single application are currently in use on the
network and ensuring that number does not
exceed the number of licenses purchased. This
information is important for legal reasons, as
software companies are vigilant about illegally
copying software or using more than the
authorized number of copies.
Security
auditingEvaluating what security
measures are currently in force and notifying the
network administrator if a security breach
occurs.
Software distributionAutomatically transferring
a file or installing an application from the server
to a client on the network. The installation
process can be started from either the server or
the client. Several options are available when

Category of network
management services
Address

managementCentrally managing a
finite number of network addresses for an
entire network. Usually this task can be
accomplished without manually modifying
the client workstation configurations.
Backup and restoration of dataBacking up
critical data files to a secure storage area
and then restoring data if the original files
are lost or deleted. Often backups are
performed
according
to
a
formulaic
schedule. Backup and data restoration
services

Becoming a Networking
Professional

Mastering the Technical

Challenges
Computer

networking is a varied field, some

general technical skills will serve you well no
matter which specialty you choose. Because
you are already interested in computers, you
probably enjoy an aptitude for logical and
analytical thinking.

Computer Networking
Skills
Installing,

configuring, and troubleshooting

network server software and hardware
Installing, configuring, and troubleshooting
network client software and hardware
Understanding the characteristics of different
transmission media
Understanding network design
Understanding network protocols
Understanding how users interact with the
network
Constructing a network with clients, servers,
media, and connectivity devices

Networking Specialities in
demand
Network

security
Convergence (the delivery of voice, video, and
data over a single network)
In-depth knowledge about one or more NOSs:
UNIX, Linux, Mac OS X Server, or
Microsoft Windows Server 2008 R2
Network management
Wireless network design
Configuration and optimization of routers and
switches
Centralized data storage and management for
large-scale environments

Developing Your Soft Skills

The term soft skills refers to those skills that are not
easily measurable, such as customer relations, oral
and written communications, dependability, teamwork,
and leadership abilities
Customer relationsPerhaps one of the most
important soft skills, customer relations involve an
ability to listen to customers frustrations and desires
and then empathize, respond, and guide customers
to their goals without acting arrogant. Bear in mind
that some of your customers will not appreciate or
enjoy technology as much as you do, and they will
value your patience as you help them. The better
your customer relations, the more respected and
popular you will be as a network professional.

Developing Your Soft Skills

Oral

and
written
communicationsYou
may
understand the most complicated technical details
about a network, but if you cannot communicate them
to colleagues and clients, the significance of your
knowledge is diminished. Imagine that you are a
networking consultant who is competing with several
other firms to overhaul a metropolitan hospitals
network, a project that could generate millions of
dollars for your company. You may have designed the
best solution and have it clearly mapped out in your
head, but your plan is useless if you cant describe it
clearly. The hospitals planning committee will accept
whichever proposal makes the most sense to them
that is, the proposal whose suggestions and
justifications are plainly communicated.

Developing Your Soft Skills

DependabilityThis characteristic will help you in any career.

However, in the field of networking, where breakdowns or
glitches can occur at any time of day or night and only a
limited number of individuals have the expertise to fix them,
being dependable is critical. Your career will benefit when you
are the one who is available to address a problem, even if
you dont always know the answer immediately.
TeamworkIndividual computer professionals often have
strong preferences for a certain type of hardware or software.
Some technical people like to think that they have all of the
answers. For these and other reasons, teamwork in IT
departments is sometimes lacking. To be the best networking
professional in your department, you must be open to new
ideas, encourage cooperation among your colleagues, and
allow others to help you and make suggestions.

Developing Your Soft Skills

Leadership

abilitiesAs
a
networking
professional, you will sometimes need to
make difficult or unpopular decisions under
pressure. You may need to persuade
opinionated colleagues to try a new product,
tell a group of angry users that what they
want is not possible, or manage a project
with nearly impossible budgetary and time
restrictions. In all of these situations, you will
benefit from having strong leadership skills.

Pursuing Certification
Certification is the process of mastering material
pertaining to a particular hardware system,
operating system, programming language, or
software application, then proving your mastery by
passing a series of exams.
CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry
Association)
A+ certification
Network+ (Net+)
MCITP (Microsoft Certified IT Professional)
certification
CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)
CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert)

List of benefits to becoming

certified
Better

salaryProfessionals with certification can usually

ask for higher salaries than those who arent certified.
Employers will also want to retain certified employees,
especially if they helped pay for their training, and will offer
incentives to keep certified professionals at the company.
Greater opportunitiesCertification may qualify you for
additional degrees or more advanced technical positions
Professional respectAfter you have proven your skills with
a product or system, your colleagues and clients will gain
great respect for your ability to solve problems with that
system or product. They will therefore feel confident asking
you for help.
Access to better supportMany manufacturers reward
certified professionals with less-expensive, more detailed,
and more direct access to their technical support.

Finding a Job in
Networking

Search the WebBecause your job will deal directly

with technology, it makes sense to use technology to
find it. Companies in the computer industry recruit
intensively on the Web, either through searchable job
databases or through links on their company Web
sites. Most job database Web sites do not charge for
their services, but may require you to register with
them.
Check your local newspapers Web siteAlthough
many employers list job openings through national
online
services,
some
with
specific,
local
opportunities might advertise only in a local or
regional newspapers online classifieds. Its worth
checking the Web site of your newspaper for these
types of listings.

Finding a Job in
Networking
Visit a career centerRegardless of

hether
you are a registered university or college
student, you can use career center services
to find a list of job openings in your area.
Companies that are hiring pay much
attention to the collegiate career centers
because of the number of job seekers served
by these centers. Visit the college or
university campus nearest you and search
through its career center listings.
NetworkFind like-minded professionals with
whom you can discuss job possibilities. You
may meet these individuals through training
classes,
conferences,
professional
organizations, or career fairs. Let them know

Finding a Job in
Networking
Attend

career fairsMost metropolitan areas host career fairs

for job seekers in the information technology field, and some
large companies host their own job fairs. Even if you arent
sure you want to work for any of the companies represented at
a job fair, attend the job fair to research the market. You can
find out which skills are in high demand in your area and which
types of companies are hiring the most networking
professionals. You can also meet other people in your field who
may offer valuable advice based on their employment
experience.
Enlist a recruiterMany recruiting agencies deal strictly with
clients in the technical fields. By signing up with such a
recruiting agency, you may have access to job opportunities
that you didnt know existed. You might also take advantage of
a temporary assignment, to see if the fit between you and an
employer is mutually beneficial, before accepting a permanent
job with that employer.

Joining Professional
Associations

The End