Computer Networks

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The internet is a global system of interconnected computer networks, which classifies it as a Wide Area Network (WAN). LANs are typically restricted to smaller geographic areas like a building or home.

Every network topology or design involves trade-offs. Therefore, all types of networks inherently possess both advantages and disadvantages depending on the specific use case.

In a star network, each node is connected to a central hub or switch. Because each device has its own dedicated cable to the central point, data collisions are effectively eliminated compared to bus topologies.

Star networks are generally considered reliable because a failure in one cable only affects the connected device, not the whole network. However, they are more expensive to install due to the amount of cabling and the need for a central hub.

A bus network uses a single central cable, known as a backbone or trunk, to which all devices are connected. If this backbone cable fails, the entire network goes down.

Ring networks are often cited for being relatively easy to install and configure compared to more complex topologies, as each device is simply connected to two others in a closed loop.

A primary benefit of the star topology is its fault tolerance. If one cable or device fails, the central hub keeps the rest of the network operational, unlike bus or ring topologies where a single point of failure can crash the entire system.

LAN is the standard acronym for Local Area Network, which refers to a computer network that interconnects computers within a limited area such as a residence, school, or office building.

A Wide Area Network (WAN) covers a broad area and is typically constructed by connecting multiple Local Area Networks (LANs) together over long distances using various communication links.

Routers operate at the Network Layer (Layer 3) because they make forwarding decisions based on logical IP addresses, unlike hubs or switches which operate at lower layers.

The primary function of the Network Layer is to determine the best physical path for data to reach its destination, a process known as routing.

Multiplexing is the process of combining multiple signals into one. The process of delivering received segments to the correct application process at the receiver is called demultiplexing.

Flow control is a mechanism used in networking to ensure that a sender does not transmit data faster than the receiver can process it, preventing buffer overflow.

TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) is designed for high reliability and error checking, which makes it unsuitable for applications where transmission time is critical and minor data loss is acceptable (like streaming).