Network Basics

Computer network is a set of computers sharing resources or data

Communication Types:

• Simplex: One-way communication.
• Half-duplex: Sends or receives at a time.
• Full-duplex: Sends and receives simultaneously.

Network Types:

Baseband Networks: Single channel, one signal at a time.

Broadband Networks: Multiple channels, multiple signals simultaneously.

Internet: Global collection of interconnected WAN networks.

Intranet: Organization's private network.

Extranet: Connection between private Intranets.

Switching Types

Circuit Switching:

• Expensive, Always Available: Used less often; dedicated channel with full bandwidth.

Packet Switching:

• Cheap, No Capacity Guarantee: Widely used; data packets take multiple paths.
• QoS (Quality of Service): Prioritizes specific traffic (e.g., VOIP) for better performance.

Types based on Size

PAN (Personal Area Network): Connects devices close to an individual.