Welcome to the Networking Basics tutorial! Here, you will learn the fundamental concepts of networking, including how data is transmitted over the internet, the different types of networks, and common networking protocols.
Understanding Networks
A network is a collection of interconnected devices that can communicate with each other. These devices can be computers, servers, routers, and more. Networks are essential for sharing resources, such as files and printers, and for enabling communication between users.
Types of Networks
- Local Area Network (LAN): A LAN is a network that covers a small area, such as a home, office, or school. LANs are typically used to connect devices within a building or a campus.
- Wide Area Network (WAN): A WAN is a network that covers a large geographical area, such as a city, country, or even the entire world. The internet is a prime example of a WAN.
- Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): A MAN is a network that covers a city or a metropolitan area.
How Data is Transmitted
Data is transmitted over networks using packets. A packet is a small unit of data that contains the information needed to route the data to its destination. When you send an email or browse a website, your data is divided into packets and sent over the network.
Key Components of Data Transmission
- Source and Destination: The source is the device that sends the data, and the destination is the device that receives the data.
- Protocol: A protocol is a set of rules that governs how data is transmitted over a network. Common protocols include TCP/IP, HTTP, and FTP.
- Addressing: Each device on a network is assigned a unique address, such as an IP address, which is used to identify the device and route data to it.
Common Networking Protocols
- TCP/IP: The TCP/IP protocol suite is the foundation of the internet. It provides a set of rules for how data is transmitted over the internet.
- HTTP: The HTTP protocol is used for transmitting web pages over the internet.
- FTP: The FTP protocol is used for transferring files over a network.
Further Reading
To learn more about networking, we recommend checking out our Advanced Networking Tutorial.