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Detailed_Networking_Basics

Computer networking enables communication and resource sharing among devices, with Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs) being the primary types. Key concepts include IP addressing, DNS for domain name translation, and networking devices like routers and switches that manage traffic. Network security is crucial, utilizing measures like firewalls and VPNs to protect data, while understanding these basics is essential for advanced topics in IT.

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barnabas barry
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
9 views

Detailed_Networking_Basics

Computer networking enables communication and resource sharing among devices, with Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs) being the primary types. Key concepts include IP addressing, DNS for domain name translation, and networking devices like routers and switches that manage traffic. Network security is crucial, utilizing measures like firewalls and VPNs to protect data, while understanding these basics is essential for advanced topics in IT.

Uploaded by

barnabas barry
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Networking Basics

Computer networking is a fundamental aspect of modern information technology that enables

computers and other devices to communicate and share resources. A network allows for the

exchange of data and resources such as files, printers, and internet connections between multiple

devices.

The most basic type of network is a **Local Area Network (LAN)**, which connects computers within

a limited area such as a home, office, or building. A **Wide Area Network (WAN)**, on the other

hand, spans larger geographical areas and connects multiple LANs, such as the internet.

**IP addressing** is a key concept in networking. Every device on a network is assigned a unique IP

(Internet Protocol) address that identifies it on the network. There are two types of IP addresses:

IPv4, which uses a 32-bit address scheme, and IPv6, which uses a 128-bit scheme to accommodate

the growing number of devices.

**DNS (Domain Name System)** plays a vital role by translating human-readable domain names

like "google.com" into IP addresses that computers use to identify each other. This system allows

users to access websites using easy-to-remember names instead of numeric IP addresses.

**Networking devices** such as routers, switches, and hubs are critical to directing and managing

network traffic. A **router** connects different networks and routes data from one network to

another. A **switch** connects devices within a single network and uses MAC addresses to forward

data to the correct destination. A **hub** is a simpler device that broadcasts data to all connected

devices, which is less efficient than a switch.

**Network protocols** are standardized rules that govern data communication. Common protocols

include **TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol)**, which ensures reliable


transmission of data over the network, and **HTTP/HTTPS**, used for accessing websites. **FTP

(File Transfer Protocol)** is used to transfer files between systems.

**Wi-Fi** and **Ethernet** are two common ways devices connect to a network. Ethernet provides a

wired connection with consistent speeds and stability, while Wi-Fi offers wireless access and greater

mobility, albeit with potential interference and security concerns.

**Network security** is a critical component of networking. Measures such as firewalls, encryption,

and antivirus software are used to protect data from threats such as malware, phishing, and

unauthorized access. **Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)** provide secure remote access by

encrypting internet traffic and masking the users IP address.

In todays world, computer networks are indispensable. From personal communications to business

operations and government functions, networks enable connectivity and collaboration across the

globe. Understanding networking basics lays the foundation for more advanced topics such as

network administration, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.

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