Intro to Networks
In a simple network, two computers (or other networkable devices) make a direct connection with each other and communicate over a wire or cable.
Simple Network
Local area networks often feature a group of computers located in a home, school, or part of an office building. Here the switch controls traffic to the local server and the firewall
protects the LAN from potential threats from the Internet.
Local Area Network (LAN)
Ethernet cables connect computers in a LAN, which then connect out to the Internet Service Provider (ISP) via phone or cable TV lines, which in turn connects to the
Internet Backbone made up of fiber optic cable.
Larger Wired Networks
Fiber Optic Cable
Core - Thin glass center of the fiber where the light travelsCladding - Outer optical material surrounding the core that reflects the light back into the coreBuffer coating - Plastic coating that protects the fiber from damage and moisture
Ethernet Cable
Network Cables
Category 5 cable includes four twisted pairs in a single cable jacket. This use of balanced lines helps preserve a high signal-to-noise ratio.
Internet Backbone
Each line is drawn between two nodes, representing two IP addresses. This is a small look at the backbone of the Internet.
LAN
UserUser
User
ISP
Internet
LAN
UserUser
User
ISPUser User
How Does Information Travel in a Network?
Packets
All information is broken down into binary bytes whichtravel along communication lines as packets.
ProtocolInformation is exchanged across networks through protocols, which is a shared networking language that determines connection and transfer of packets.
Wireless Network
A wireless access point translates and transmits information as radio waves.
Any device with a wireless receiver canjoin the wireless network once it is givenan IP address.
What are some other kinds of Networks?
Cell Phone Network
Cell Phone Tower
Social Network
Neural Network