Networks Made Easy: A Beginner's Guide

Computer communication refers to the exchange of data, information, or commands between two or more computers or computing devices.

This exchange can occur over various types of networks, such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), or the internet.

CONNECTION DEVICES in Communication  systems:  Facilitate the transmission and reception of data between different devices and networks.

In communication systems, TRANSMISSION MODES refer to the ways data is transferred between devices over a network or communication channel.

Transmission Media in a communication system refers to the physical or wireless pathways that carry data signals from one device to another.

Data Rate in a communication system refers to the speed at which data is transmitted over a network or transmission medium.

Protocols in a Communication System

A protocol in a communication system is a set of rules and standards that define how data is transmitted, received, and interpreted between devices in a network.

Data transmission specifications- Latency: Latency in data transmission refers to the time delay between when data is sent and when it is received across a network.

Understand what a computer network is, network strategy, and network servers.

Understand the characteristics of Local Area Network (LAN), and Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)  and describe the differences between them.

Understand the characteristics of Wide Area Network (WAN), and describe the differences between LAN and WAN.

Understand the use of WiFi and Bluetooth in networks

Network topology refers to the arrangement of nodes and connections in a computer network.

It describes how devices (such as computers, routers, and switches) are physically or logically connected to each other to facilitate communication and data transfer.

In this section, we’ll present the fundamental concepts of Network architecture and then,

introduce the international standard for architectures:

Open Systems interconnection OSI

The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Model is a conceptual framework that helps understand and standardize network architecture.

It breaks down network communication into seven layers, each with specific functions.

These layers guide the design and implementation of network architecture by defining how data is transmitted, processed, and received across a network.

Here,  we'll explore The 7 Layers of the OSI Model.

Then  we'll explain the Roles and Functions of

• The Physical Layer (Layer 1), 

• The Data Link Layer (Layer 2).

Here  we'll explain the

Roles and Functions of :

• The Network Layer (Layer 3)

• The Transport Layer (Layer 4)

Here  we'll explain the Roles and Functions of :

• Session Layer (Layer 5)

• Presentation Layer (Layer 6)

• Application Layer (Layer 7)

DNS (Domain Name System): is like the phonebook of the internet.

It translates domain names into IP addresses, enabling user-friendly navigation of the Internet.

Discusses network hardware such as network interface cards and hubs.

Understand the use of a network switch in networking.

Understand the use of bridges as  network devices.

Understand how a router works and its purpose in networking.

Understand the use of a network modem in network communication.

Identify different types on network cables and their characteristics.

Network security

• refers to the strategies, technologies, and policies used to protect data and systems as they travel across or reside within a network.

• Core Principles of Network SecurityCore Principles of Network Security

• What Is a Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attack?

• Network Intrusion Detection Systems-NIDS

• Intrusion Prevention System-IPS

Describe the security issues surrounding the use of computer networks
––  issue of the internet is not policed

––  issues of Hacking, and Phishing.

Describe the security issues surrounding the use of computer networks
–– issues such as Pharming,  Spam, Smishing, and Vishing.

Describe the security issues surrounding the use of computer networks
–– Spyware and Virus.

Identify data security measures.

Describe authentication techniques, such as biometric methods, magnetic stripes,  other physical tokens, retina scans, iris scans, face scans

Identify data security measures. Describe two factor authentication techniques TAN.

Identify data security measures. 

Understand Digital certificates, SSL/TSL protocols, data encryption.

Understand what a data protection act is.

List the principles of a typical data protection act.