What is Networking?

Networking refers to the practice of connecting devices to share resources and communicate. Whether it's a local home network 🏠 or a global internet infrastructure 🌍, the principles remain foundational.

Key Concepts

  • OSI Model 📊: The Open Systems Interconnection model divides networking into 7 layers, from physical cables to application-layer protocols.
  • IP Address 🧾: Unique identifiers for devices on a network, like 192.168.1.1 (private network) or 8.8.8.8 (public DNS).
  • Routing & Switching 🧭: Routing directs data between networks, while switching manages data within a local network.
  • TCP/IP Protocol Suite 📡: The backbone of internet communication, ensuring reliable data transfer.

Real-World Applications

  • Home Networks 🏠: Connect devices like smartphones, TVs, and printers using Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
  • Enterprise Networks 💼: Secure and scalable infrastructure for businesses, often involving VLANs and firewalls.
  • Cloud Connectivity ☁️: Enables remote access to servers and services, such as AWS or Azure.

Expand Your Knowledge

For deeper insights into networking protocols, visit our guide on networking-protocols.

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