Network Fundamentals
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Introduction to Networking
- Definition and Importance: Networking refers to the interconnection of computers and other devices to share resources and information. It's crucial for data exchange, communication, and resource sharing in modern computing.
- Overview of Network Types:
- LAN (Local Area Network): Covers a small geographic area like an office or building.
- WAN (Wide Area Network): Spans large geographic areas, often countries or continents.
- MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): Covers a city or a large campus.
- PAN (Personal Area Network): Very small network for personal devices.
- Others: WLAN (Wireless LAN), SAN (Storage/Area Network), etc.
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The OSI Model
- Explanation: The OSI Model is a conceptual framework used to understand network interactions in seven layers.
- Description of Each Layer:
- Physical Layer (Layer 1): Deals with the physical connection between devices.
- Data Link Layer (Layer 2): Manages node-to-node data transfer and error detection.
- Network Layer (Layer 3): Handles data transfer between different networks.
- Transport Layer (Layer 4): Ensures complete data transfer.
- Session Layer (Layer 5): Manages sessions between applications.
- Presentation Layer (Layer 6): Translates data format between network and application.
- Application Layer (Layer 7): Interfaces with the user and applications.
- Layer Interaction: Each layer serves the layer above and is served by the layer below.
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TCP/IP Model
- Introduction and Comparison with OSI: Simplified model used for the internet, focused on four layers.
- Description of Layers: Application, Transport, Internet, and Network Interface layers.
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Network Topologies
- Types:
- Star: All nodes connected to a central hub.
- Bus: All nodes connected to a single communication line.
- Ring: Nodes connected in a closed loop.
- Mesh: Nodes interconnected with many redundant connections.
- Hybrid: Combination of two or more topologies.
- Advantages and Disadvantages: Each topology has unique strengths and weaknesses in terms of layout, fault tolerance, and scalability.
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Network Devices and Hardware
- Overview:
- Routers: Directs data between different networks.
- Switches: Connects devices within the same network.
- Hubs: Basic networking device connecting multiple devices.
- Bridges: Connects two LANs.
- Repeaters: Amplifies signals over the same network.
- Modems: Modulates and demodulates signals for communication.
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IP Addressing
- Basics of IPv4 and IPv6: IPv4 uses 32-bit addresses, IPv6 uses 128-bit.
- Subnetting and NAT: Techniques for dividing networks and translating addresses for security and efficiency.
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Networking Protocols
- Overview:
- HTTP/HTTPS: Protocols for web traffic.
- FTP: File Transfer Protocol.
- SMTP: Simple Mail Transfer Protocol.
- SNMP: Network management protocol.
- Telnet: Used for remote access.
- Role and Importance: Each protocol facilitates specific types of network communication and operations.
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Network Security
- Basic Concepts: Protecting data integrity, confidentiality, and availability.
- Tools: Firewalls, antivirus systems, intrusion detection systems.
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Wireless Networking
- Introduction: Involves communication without physical connections.
- WiFi Standards and Technologies: 802.11 standards and their evolution.
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Emerging Trends
- Overview: Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Network Functions Virtualization (NFV), Internet of Things (IoT), etc.
Conclusion
- Summary of Key Takeaways: Understanding the fundamentals of networking is essential for navigating and securing the modern digital landscape.
- Importance: In an increasingly connected world, foundational knowledge in networking is critical for professionals in various fields.