Autor: 09.04.2024
Computer Networks - 10 Key Concepts
Below you'll find a list of the 10 most important concepts related to computer networks. This knowledge is essential for taking the first steps in the field of networking.
Network Protocol
A network protocol is a set of rules, standards, and procedures that define the way communication occurs between different devices in a network. It enables different devices to communicate with each other. Protocols define the method of data packetization, addressing, transmission, and reception of information.
IP Address (Internet Protocol)
An IP address is a unique identifier assigned to each device connected to a computer network. It consists of four octets (in the case of IPv4) - each of them can take values from 0 to 255, separated by dots. An IP address enables data transmission by identifying both the source and destination of the transmission.
MAC Address (Media Access Control)
A MAC address is a unique identifier assigned to a network interface in a device. It consists of a 48-bit number (usually expressed in hexadecimal form), which is assigned to a network card or another network interface. MAC addresses are used for direct device identification in a local network.
Router
A router is a network device that forwards data packets between different networks, selecting the best route based on the IP addresses contained in the packets. Routers are essential in wide area networks for transmitting data between local networks or the Internet.
Switch
A switch is a network device used in local networks to forward network traffic based on MAC addresses. Unlike concentrators (hubs) that forward data to all ports, a switch only sends data to the destination port, thus increasing the efficiency of the local network.
Firewall
A firewall is a network security system that controls and monitors network traffic between external and internal networks. A firewall can block or allow network traffic based on defined security rules, protecting the network from unauthorized access, attacks, and threats.
Network Topology
Network topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of connections between devices in a computer network. Examples of topologies include:
- Star - all devices are connected to a single center
- Ring - each device is connected to two adjacent ones
- Mesh - each device is connected to all other devices
DNS (Domain Name System)
DNS is a system that allows mapping domain names to IP addresses. This enables us to use easy-to-remember names instead of complicated IP addresses. For example, when you visit the website codenga.com, DNS translates this name into the correct IP address of the server.
LAN (Local Area Network)
LAN is a computer network covering a small geographical area, such as a building, office, or home. Devices in a LAN can communicate directly with each other, for example, using Ethernet cables.
WAN (Wide Area Network)
WAN is a computer network covering a large geographical area, such as a city, country, or continent. WAN enables communication between distant locations using various transmission technologies, such as telephone lines, fiber optic cables, or radio links.
