COMPUTER NETWORKS

Topics to be covered in my seminar are:

1. Definition of Network A network is a collection of computers and devices connected to each other. The network allows computers to communicate with each other and share resources and information. 2. Application This subtopic mainly covers the Uses of Networks. Some are Resource Sharing and Centralizing Administration. 3. Types Depending on the Geographical size of the Network it can be classified into LAN, WAN, MAN etc. 4. Topologies A network consists of two or more computers that are linked in order to share resources (such as printers and Hard Drives), exchange files, or allow electronic communications (video & audio). The computers on a network may be linked through cables, telephone lines, radio waves, satellites, or infrared light beams. E.g. Bus, Star, Ring etc. 5. Hardware Required Hubs and Switches Modems Network Adapters Network Cables Ethernet

6. Introduction to Network Protocols Protocols are Rules that Govern Communications. All communication over a network is governed by predetermined rules called protocols. These protocols are specific to the characteristics of the conversation. For devices to successfully communicate, a network protocol suite must describe precise requirements and interactions. 7. Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol The suite of communications protocols used to connect hosts on the Internet. TCP/IP uses several protocols, the two main ones being TCP and IP. TCP/IP is built into the UNIX operating system and is used by the Internet, making it the standard for transmitting data over networks. Even network operating systems that have their own protocols, such as Netware, also support TCP/IP. 8. Domain Name System. Domain Name System serves as the phone book for the Internet by translating human-friendly computer hostnames into IP addresses. 9. IP Addressing An IP (Internet Protocol) address is a unique identifier for a node or host connection on an IP network. 10. Network Security - Firewall concept. A firewall can either be software-based or hardware-based and is used to help keep a network secure. Its primary objective is to control the incoming and outgoing network traffic by analyzing the data packets and determining whether it should be allowed through or not, based on a predetermined rule set. A network's firewall builds a bridge between an internal network that is assumed to be secure and trusted, and another network, usually an external (inter)network, such as the Internet, that is not assumed to be secure and trusted. 11. Network Engineering & Network Engineers. A network administrator, network analyst or network engineer is a person responsible for the maintenance of computer hardware and software that comprises a computer network.