WEEK 4 - SESSION 1&2

The first session of this week, I have learnt about computer network, network components, basic networking concepts, data communication and data transmission characteristics.

Computer network is simply a group of interconnected computers. Two or more computers are connected via hardware or software, and able to communicate with each other. For example: the internet, ATM, e-banking….

There are five major components of a computer network:

1.     Communication media

2.     Interconnecting devices

3.     Computers

4.     Networking software

5.     Application

I have known about the basic networking concepts, which are: Topology-the physical layout of network, Protocol-the rules in data communication, and Architecture-how the hardware and software are integrated to form a working.

There are three elements of data communication (at least) must exist: sender, medium, receiver.

 There are 3 data transmission characteristics: bandwidth (rate of transmission), analog or digital (type of signal) and serial or parallel (order of bits).

For the second session, I have learnt about communication channel, network medium, physical medium, wireless medium, digital communication, wirelesss networking (Wi-fi) and the applications.

Medium may be either physical cable, such as twisted pair, coaxial,… or wireless. Physical interface to medium is usually network interface card (NIC) or network adapter.

 

I have known about wireless media, such as: microwave system, satellite system, cellular technology and infrared technology. I also have learnt some general things about the digital communication, wireless networking - Wi-Fi and application as well.