From Mycomputer Notes

Revision as of 06:06, 2 April 2006

In thi chapters will introduced some terminology used by networking professionals and various types of computer networks. It also introduces an explanation on how standards ensure greater compatibility and interoperability among various types of computer netwroks. It also describes the OSI Model and the basic fonctions thtat takes place at each layer of the OSI Model.

Networking Terminology

Data networks developed as a result of business applications that were written for microcomputers. The microcomputers were not connected so there was no efficient way to share data among them. It was not efficient or cost-effective for businesses to use floppy disks to share data.

Businesses needed a solution that would successfully address the following three problems:

• How to avoid duplication of equipment and resources
• How to communicate efficiently
• How to set up and manage a network

Networking devices

Equipement that connect directly to a network segment. These devices are borken into two classifications.

End-User devices:

• Computers, Printers, Scanners and other deevices that provide services to the user. Devices that connect end-user to the network.

Network devices:

• All devices that connect the end-user devices together to allow them to communicate. Network devices are used to extend cable connections, concentrate connections, convert data formats and manage data transfers (i.e repeaters, hubs, switches and routers)

Bandwith

Networking Models