Introduction to Networking

Introduction to Networking

Assalammualaikum..

This week, we've learned the Introduction to Networking. Firstly, networking is about linking two or more devices such as computers. The main purpose of networking is actually to share files. The network is formed through all sort of cables either wireless or direct cabling.

LAN- Local Area Network

• Limited to geographical area (Home, school computer, office, etc.)
• Less than a mile range.
• Uses one computer as a server - connected via cables.
• WLAN - Wireless LAN - same function, but without physical wires/cables.

MAN - Metropolitan Area Network

• In metropolitan area (city or town).
• Includes one or more LANs, but smaller geographical area than WAN.
• Provided by a single network provider that sells the service. (telephone cables, television cables, etc.)

WAN - Wide Area Network

• Large geographic area (city, country, world, etc.)
• Use satellite communication.
• One large network or connected two or more LANs.

PAN - Personal Area Network

• By the word "personal", it is obviously not for public use. 
• Personal Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) - requires a password in order to access.

 Hubs, Bridges, Routers, Switches, Gateways and Repeaters are required to build a network... 

Hubs

• A very simple device.
• Build LANs by connecting computers.
• Forward received data to other connected computers.

Switches

• More advanced - checks the destination to forward data to specific receivers.
• Built-in software chips - fast and come with many ports.

Bridges

• Extend networks by maintaining signals and traffic.
• Slower - use software to perform switching.
• Limited network distance range.

Routers

• Connect different LANs or LAN with WAN.
• Send data specifically to the receiver's internet address. 

Gateways

• Running the appropriate software to connect between networks that use different protocols or architecture. 
• Very intelligent.