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