A number of design issues exist for the layer to layer approach of computer networks. Some of the main design issues are as follows −ReliabilityNetwork channels and components may be unreliable, resulting in loss of bits while data transfer. So, an important design issue is to make sure that the information transferred is not distorted.ScalabilityNetworks are continuously evolving. The sizes are continually increasing leading to congestion. Also, when new technologies are applied to the added components, it may lead to incompatibility issues. Hence, the design should be done so that the networks are scalable and can accommodate such additions and ... Read More

A protocol is a set of rules and conventions agreed upon and followed by the communicating entities for data communication. A protocol outlines the what, how and when of a communication.The three aspects of a protocol are −Syntax − It defines the format of data that is to be sent or received.Semantics − It defines the meaning of each section of bits that are transferred.Timings − It defines the time at which data is transferred as well as the speed at which it is transferred.Protocol HierarchiesMost networks are organized as a stack of layers, one on the top of another. ... Read More

Network software encompasses a broad range of software used for design, implementation, and operation and monitoring of computer networks. Traditional networks were hardware based with software embedded. With the advent of Software – Defined Networking (SDN), software is separated from the hardware thus making it more adaptable to the ever-changing nature of the computer network.Functions of Network SoftwareHelps to set up and install computer networksEnables users to have access to network resources in a seamless mannerAllows administrations to add or remove users from the networkHelps to define locations of data storage and allows users to access that dataHelps administrators and ... Read More

Internetworking is the technique of interconnecting myriad networks together, using connecting devices like routers and gateways. The different networks are owned by different entities that widely vary in terms of network technologies. These networks may be public, private, government, business or academic in nature, whose sizes may vary from small LANs to large WANs. The resulting network of networks is generally termed as internetwork or simply internet.To enable efficient data communication among multiple networks, the connected networks decide upon a common protocol stack or communication methodology. The two architectural models that define the protocols used for communication are −Open System ... Read More

A home network is a small sized LAN that is used to connected devices within the small area of a home. It facilitates sharing of files, peripheral devices, programs and Internet access among the computers in a home. Home networks may be wired, i.e. connections within devices are done with cables; or wireless, i.e. connections are provided using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.Purpose of Home NetworksModemRouterNetwork SwitchNetwork BridgeHome Automation Controller

Computer networks that are not connected by cables are called wireless networks. They generally use radio waves for communication between the network nodes. They allow devices to be connected to the network while roaming around within the network coverage. Types of Wireless Networks Wireless LANs − Connects two or more network devices using wireless distribution techniques. Wireless MANs − Connects two or more wireless LANs spreading over a metropolitan area. Wireless WANs − Connects large areas comprising LANs, MANs and personal networks. Advantages of Wireless Networks It provides ... Read More

A wide area network (WAN) is a computer network that covers a large geographical area comprising a region, a country, a continent or even the whole world. WAN includes the technologies to transmit data, image, audio and video information over long distances and among different LANs and MANs.The distinguishing features of WAN areWANs have a large capacity, connecting a large number of computers over a large area, and are inherently scalable.They facilitate the sharing of regional resources.They provide uplinks for connecting LANs and MANs to the Internet.Communication links are provided by public carriers like telephone networks, network providers, cable systems, ... Read More

A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a network with a size greater than LAN but smaller than a WAN. It normally comprises networked interconnections within a city that also offers a connection to the Internet.The distinguishing features of MAN areNetwork size generally ranges from 5 to 50 km. It may be as small as a group of buildings in a campus to as large as covering the whole city.Data rates are moderate to high.In general, a MAN is either owned by a user group or by a network provider who sells service to users, rather than a single organization as ... Read More

A Local Area Network (LAN) is a private network that connects computers and devices within a limited area like a residence, an office, a building or a campus. On a small scale, LANs are used to connect personal computers to printers. However, LANs can also extend to a few kilometers when used by companies, where a large number of computers share a variety of resources like hardware (e.g. printers, scanners, audiovisual devices etc), software (e.g. application programs) and data.The distinguishing features of LAN areNetwork size is limited to a small geographical area, presently to a few kilometers.Data transfer rate is ... Read More

The basic computer hardware components that are needed to set up a network are as follows −Network CablesNetwork cables are the transmission media to transfer data from one device to another. A commonly used network cable is category 5 cable with RJ – 45 connector, as shown in the image below:RoutersA router is a connecting device that transfers data packets between different computer networks. Typically, they are used to connect a PC or an organization’s LAN to a broadband internet connection. They contain RJ-45 ports so that computers and other devices can connect with them using network cables.Repeaters, Hubs, and ... Read More