Introduction:

In today’s fast based tech savvy world, computer Networking becomes the back bone of this digital age. Computer Networking has become a very important aspect of our day to day life as its used to connect our home devices, its also important because it enables communication across continents within a short span of time. In short, computer networking is involved in everything we do online. In today’s day and age its important to master the concepts of computer networking, whether you are a beginner trying to understand about networks or a professional trying to advance your career in the field of networking. In this article we will learn the basics of computer networking. So, lets get started!

What is Computer Networking?

The first question that must have popped in your mind is “what is computer networking”. The simplest explanation would be that it’s the interconnection of devices that communicate and share data, resources and information between themselves. The interconnected devices could include computers, servers, laptop, smart phones, printers and other devices connected by wires or wireless connections. Whereas, networks allow the Transfer of data, internet access and enables sharing of resources across multiple devices.

Computer Networking is a very important aspect today, from a small home network with a few devices to a vast web of connections that extents to the internet, computer networking is a significant part of modern communication. Understanding how these Devices and the network work is very crucial in today’s digital world. A great understanding of the computer networking can reward you with a successful career in IT, cybersecurity or network administration.

Types of Network

In computer networking, networks can vary based on size, shape and usage. Some of the most common types of network are as follows:

LAN

Lan is also known as Local area network. As the name suggests its helps in connecting network devices in a small geographical area like an office, home, school or a campus. Lan is the most commonly used type of Network as its privately owned.

WAN

Wan is also called as Wide area network. Basically it provides network connections between different geographical locations. With WAN, a VPN or a virtual private network is used to manage the connections between different LAN’s. WAN is used to connect a Head office of a Company with its branch office at another geographical location.

MAN

Also known as Metropolitan Area Network, it provides networking Possibilities between different locations within a city. For a Secure MAN it needs a secure connection between each and every LAN in the network that is connected to the MAN.

Wireless Network

Wireless Network : A wireless network allows devices to connect without physical cables. Usually they use radio waves, hence eliminating the need for cables. Wireless networks are widely used is businesses , Home and telecommunications networks.

 WiFi

is the most common as well as a very popular wireless networking technology, that provides internet access through radio signals. Wifi is also called as Wireless Fidelity.  Each WiFi network has a unique SSID (Service Set Identifier), which acts as its name. SSID’s are Unique to each network. Which allows easy connectivity to the right device.

Network Topology

Network Topology is the way in which all the physical devices are connected in a network. Basically it defines how Devices like computer , printer, servers, and other devices are connected in a network. Now, lets have a look at the most common network topologies used in computer networking.

Bus Topology

In a  bus topology, a single network cable is used to connect the network devices. It’s the simplest type of Network topology but it does have a few limitation. As its connected to a single cable there is a higher chance of a signal drop out.

Star Topology

Each and every network device is connected to a centralized hub  or a switch. Star Topology is the most commonly used Network topology.

Mesh Topology

As the name suggests, the Devices are connected to each other in the form of a mesh. While it could be a physical mesh or a logical mesh. When each network device connects to every other network device on the network, its called as a physical mesh.

OSI Model

OSI Model is also called as the Open systems Interconnection Model. Basically this is a model that tells us how Networking protocols of networks and the technologies communicate with each other in a effective way. The OSI Layer standardizes the computing system into seven layers. All the Seven layers have a specific purpose and communicates with the layers present above and below it. The Above image shows the 7 Layers of the OSI Model and compares it with the Layers of the TCP/IP Model

Common Protocols

The word Protocol means ‘a set of rules’. Its nothing but a set of rules that defines how a data gets transmitted and received between different devices on a network. We will go through some basic protocols.

Internet Protocol

It is also called as IP, the main function of Internet protocol is routing a packet of data in a network so that it can travel to the desired destination in the network.

HTTP/HTTPS

The Main purpose of this protocol is to make sure data exchange is possible on the web. HTTP/HTTPS makes sure that communication is carried out between the server and the web browser. While HTTPS provides an extra layer of security when compared to HTTP. HTTPS makes sure the data exchange remains confidential between the user and the website through an encryption like SSL/TLS.

FTP

FTP is also known as File transfer protocol. As the name suggests, its used to transfer files between a client and a server on a network.

SMTP

It is also called as Simple Mail Transfer Protocol. The main Purpose of this communication protocol is to enable sending and receiving email over the internet.

Network Devices

Router

Router is a device that is used to connect two or more networks. Basically Router routes between the network.

Switch

Switch is a network device that is used to connect multiple devices that is present within a network or a LAN.

Hub

It is a network device used for the purpose of connecting multiple devices together, allowing the sharing of data between them. Hub is also Known as Repeater as it amplifies the signals to extend the range of the network.

Access Points

Access points are basically used for the purpose of extending Wi-Fi network coverage.

Network Cables

Computer networking needs a wide variety of cables in order to connect network devices. In future we will learn in depth about every Cable used in a network. Some of the commonly used network cables are listed below:

Ethernet

Ethernet cables are widely used in Wired networks, especially in LAN’s. Ethernet cables are used by the user to connect to the LAN by using their own devices such as a PC, Laptop and Phone’s to connect to the internet.

Fiber optic cable

As the name Suggests Optical Fibers are used in Fiber Optic Cable. They are usually made of Glass core surrounded by PVC or Teflon Material. Fiber Optic Cable transmits signal in the form of Light Signals. Hence,Fiber optic cable can transmit signals over a long distance.It provides high speed data transmission.

Co-axial cable

It is used in cable internet connections. Co-axial cables have the capacity to carry high frequency electrical signals with low losses. There are different types of co axial cables available. But we will learn more about it in future.

Important Concepts to Know

IP Address

Basically IP Address is a Unique set of numbers assigned to each and every device connected to a network that uses the Internet Protocol for the purpose of communication. There are different types of IP Address, but we will learn more in detail about it in a future article.

DNS

It is also called as Domain name service. Basically it  translates domain name or website names that humans can relate into numerical IP address that network devices can relate easily. DNS is essential to make sure we can browse any website on the internet very easily as it Links the Domain name of the website to its respective web server quickly.

Ping

Ping is a command that is used for the purpose of testing network connectivity. In simple words, it’s a network diagnostic tool that can be used to test the connectivity between devices. Ping sends data packets in order to measure the response time. This helps in troubleshooting network issues and also for the purpose of checking internet speed.

Bandwidth

Bandwidth can be defined as the amount of data that can be sent over a network in a specified time. Bandwidth is always supposed to be faster which means fast data transmission over the network and higher internet connectivity and speed.

Network Security

One of the most important aspect of computer networking is to secure the network. The activity of protecting the usability of the network and the data in the network is called as Network security. The main thing is to keep both hardware as well as the software secure from any threats from entering the network. Basically Network security is to defend the network from unknown threats to the network or devices.

Firewall

It is a system that controls and monitors the traffic based on security rules that are predefined. This helps in identifying trusted internal networks and insecure external networks. Basically firewall acts as a security barrier by protecting the network from unathorized access and cyber threat.

VPN

VPN is also known as Virtual private Network. The VPN creates a point to point tunnel that encrypts data over the network. It also helps in masking the IP address and help to bypass website blocks and firewalls on the Internet. Basically VPN is used to create a Connection between the computer and a remote server owned by the VPN Provider. It helps to encrypt the traffic and masks the IP Address and helps us to be anonymous by enhancing our online privacy. Its also a good practice to use a VPN while using a public Wi-Fi. You can get the best of VPN’s Hand Picked by us here.

Web Security

Web security is very useful especially if you own a business. Web security solutions come in handy to have a eye on your staff and to control their usage. By blocking unwanted Websites and by denying access to malicious websites.

Application Security

If you own any software or application for business or for personal use, there is always a chance of a hacker trying to find loop holes in your Application and try to infiltrate it. Hence, its important to use Application Security to close the door on the Attacker on all aspects like hardware or software.

Anti virus and anti malware

Malware includes viruses , worms and spyware in it. Malware and viruses can take down your network by infecting it. Hence, its very important to have Anti virus and Ani Malware Software’s on your System. Here you can find the best Anti Virus and Anti Malware Programs for your system.

Email Security

Email security is the Number one threat vector for a security breach. Basically a hacker or an attacker uses personal information, gathered through social engineering tactics. The hacker tries to build a phishing attack by using the the gathered information and sends deceiving emails with a link to sites with malware. Hence an email security application is essential to block the suspicious mails and prevent loss of sensitive data.

Network Security Threat

Networks have to face a lot of threats from time to time. Some of the commonly known Network security threats are mentioned below:

Malware and Viruses

Malware and viruses are nothing but harmful software or files that harm the network functionality.

Phishing Attacks

One of the most used attacks by hackers are phishing attacks. Usually Hackers use fraudulent techniques to steal sensitive data from your device or network. Going forward we will definely learn more about this attack.

DDos Attacks

This is also called as Distributed denial of service attack. The Hackers usually send a huge amount of traffic on to the network to overwhelm it and make it inaccessible and slow down the network in order to disrupt the services.

How to master Computer Networking

Here are a few tips for you, from my end so that you can easily master computer networking

• • The first thing you should do is try and set up a home lab or atleast set up a LAN at your home.

• • Learn how to use tools like Cisco Packet Tracer or GNS3. It is usually used to simulate real-world networking environments.

• • Never ignore certification programs like CompTIA Network+ or CCNA to further increase your knowledge and credentials in the IT industry.

Why Networking Skills are Crucial for Cybersecurity:

If you’re planning to pursue a career in cybersecurity, you will most likely encounter the following certifications that heavily demand networking skills:

CompTIA Network+

This certification provides a solid foundation in networking basics, its includes topics based on protocols, IP addressing, and network security. It’s an essential skill for everyone entering the cybersecurity field. Want to know more about the syllabus and certification? Check this out.

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco’s certification is renowned in the networking field. For cybersecurity professionals, this certification is valuable as it covers all the network fundamentals, security protocols, and troubleshooting techniques. Get more details about CCNA and its syllabus here.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

This is a more advanced certification when compared to the other certifications listed, CISSP requires a solid understanding of network security and the skills to know how networks can be fortified against cyber threats. Learn more about CISSP here.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

The CEH certification teaches professionals how to think like hackers to identify vulnerabilities but in a ethical way. Again this needs the understanding of networks. You can find more details about CEH here.

Top 5 Book Recommendation to help you learn more about Networking

Test Your Knowledge: Take the Networking Basic Quiz!

Now that you’ve learned the fundamentals of computer networking and how these skills are crucial for a career in both networking and cybersecurity, it’s time to put your knowledge to the test!

Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or you’re looking to refresh your understanding, taking a quiz is a great way to evaluate your grasp on networking concepts and ensure you’re ready for the next steps in your learning journey.

Ready to challenge yourself?

Click Here to take the Networking Basic Quiz and see how well you understand the core concepts of computer networking. It’s a fun and interactive way to gauge your skills—and you may even discover areas where you can improve before diving deeper into more advanced topics.

Conclusion

In summary, Whether you want to become a Network engineer or get into Penetration testing or become a cybersecurity professional, computer networking is a must have skill that can help to skyrocket your career quickly. Skills such as to understand networks, to operate it, to learn how a data gets transmitted are very important to know. Also Understanding how network devices are connected and how firewalls are configured helps in protecting sensitive data and prevent from threats and attacks from hackers or attackers.

Having a very strong understanding of computer Networking is essential for everyone looking to start a career in cybersecurity. To put it all in simple words, all I can say is that computer networking is the backbone of digital communication thereby enabling seamless connectivity with great security and data sharing. In our future articles you can expect in depth information about each and every important topic in computer networking.

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