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IP addresses

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 IP addresses An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a unique numerical label assigned to devices connected to a network that uses the Internet Protocol for communication. It acts like an online address,  identifying a specific device on the internet or a local network. Here's a breakdown of key concepts related to IP addresses: Types of IP Addresses: IPv4 (Internet Protocol Version 4): The most widely used version for a long time, but the available addresses are nearing depletion. It consists of four numbers separated by periods, each number ranging from 0 to 255. (e.g., 192.168.1.1) IPv6 (Internet Protocol Version 6): The next generation of IP addresses designed to address the limitations of IPv4. It has a more extensive address space and a different format with eight groups of hexadecimal digits separated by colons. (e.g., 2001:db8:0:1234:0:567:8:1) Public vs. Private IP Addresses: Public IP Addresses: Uniquely identify a device on the internet and are assigned by intern

TCP IP model

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 TCP IP model The TCP/IP model (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) is a different approach to network communication compared to the OSI model. Key Differences: Layers: The TCP/IP model has 4 layers, while the OSI model has 7 layers. Focus: The TCP/IP model takes a more practical approach, reflecting how data is actually communicated on the internet. Development: The TCP/IP model emerged from real-world networking practices, while the OSI model is a more theoretical framework. TCP/IP Layers: Network Access Layer: Combines the functions of the OSI model's physical and data link layers. Deals with physical network connections, addressing, and media access control (MAC). Internet Layer: Similar to the OSI network layer. Responsible for routing data packets across networks based on IP addresses. Transport Layer: Equivalent to the OSI transport layer. Provides reliable data transfer services like TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol). Applicat

The OSI model

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  The OSI model, also known as the Open Systems Interconnection model, is a conceptual framework that defines how data is communicated across a network. It's a universal language that helps us understand how different devices and software can connect and exchange information, regardless of the specific technology used. The OSI model consists of seven layers, each with a specific function: Layer 1: Physical Layer Deals with the physical transmission of data bits across a network connection. Examples: Cables (Ethernet, coaxial), wireless signals (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) Responsible for establishing and maintaining the physical connection between devices. Layer 2: Data Link Layer Packages data into frames and adds error detection mechanisms. Examples: MAC addresses, error checking protocols (CRC) Ensures reliable data transmission between network devices. Layer 3: Network Layer Routes data packets across networks based on their IP addresses. Examples: IP addresses, routing protocols Determi

Computer network devices

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 Computer network devices     Computer network devices are the hardware components that connect computers and other devices together to form a network and enable them to communicate and share resources. Here are some of the most common computer network devices: Network Interface Card (NIC): Also known as an Ethernet card, a NIC is a network adapter installed inside a computer. It allows the computer to connect to a network physically through a wired connection using an Ethernet cable. NICs also have a unique Media Access Control (MAC) address that identifies the device on the network. Switch: A network switch is a more advanced device compared to a hub. It connects devices on a network and intelligently directs data packets to the intended recipient. Unlike a hub that broadcasts data to all connected devices, a switch learns the MAC addresses of the devices connected to its ports and forwards data only to the specific port where the recipient device is located. This improves network

Computer Network topology

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 Computer Network topology A computer network topology refers to the way computers and other devices are arranged on a network, including the physical layout of the connections between them. It defines how data flows within the network.  Let look at some of the most common network topologies: 1. Bus Topology: All devices are connected to a single central cable, like beads on a bus. Data travels through the cable in both directions and is received by all devices. Advantages: Simple to set up and inexpensive to implement. Disadvantages:  A single break in the cable can disrupt the whole entire network. Performance can degrade as more devices are added to the network due to data collisions. Not very scalable for large networks. 2. Star Topology: Devices are connected to a central hub, switch, or router. Data travels from one of the device to another through the central device. Advantages: More reliable than bus topology as a failure in one device won't affect the entire network. Easi

What is a Network

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 What is a Network In the context of computers and communication, a network is a collection of interconnected computers, devices, and resources that can share information and resources with each other. These connections can be physical wires, fiber optic cables, or even wireless signals. Here's a breakdown of some key aspects of networks: Components: A network can include various devices like: Computers (desktops, laptops, servers) Printers,  Tablets and smartphones Routers and switches (networking devices) Storage devices,  And more! Connections: These devices connect to each other using different technologies: Wired connections: Cables like Ethernet cables establish a physical link between devices. Wireless connections: Devices connect using Wi-Fi signals, Bluetooth, or cellular data networks. Resource Sharing: Networks enable devices to share resources like: Files and data: Users on a network can access and share documents, photos, music, and other files. Printers and scanner

The Internet

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 The Internet The internet is a vast network of interconnected computer networks that allows for global communication and data sharing. Here's a breakdown of its key aspects: Network of Networks: Imagine countless computers and electronic devices around the world linked together. This web of connections is the internet. These connections can be physical cables, fiber optics, or even wireless signals. Communication and Data Sharing: The internet facilitates communication and data exchange between these connected devices. This can include: Sending and receiving emails Browsing websites and accessing information Sharing files and photos Making voice and video calls Streaming music and videos Online gaming And much more! Infrastructure:  The internet relies on a complex infrastructure to operate, including: Communication Cables: Undersea cables, fiber optic lines, and copper wires form the backbone of the internet, carrying data across vast distances. Satellites: In remote areas, sat