KWASU - CSC 101 Internet Technology (1)

Page 1: Introduction to Internet Technology

Course Information

Course Code: CSC 101Course Title: Internet Technology & Programming ICourse Status: 2 Credit Compulsory

Definition of Internet

A global system of interconnected computer networks using TCP/IP protocol to serve users worldwide. The Internet consists of millions of networks, including private, public, academic, and government networks. It supports a variety of resources, like the World Wide Web (WWW), email infrastructure, file transfer protocols (FTP), and various applications that facilitate communication and data exchange.

Computer Networks

Infrastructure allowing communication between two or more computers (hosts), enabling them to share information and resources. It is defined as a group connected for data exchange, where each device is regarded as a node with a unique address (IP address). A computer network comprises a collection of hardware (routers, switches, etc.) and computers interconnected by communication channels (like cables or wireless signals). Rules for communication are defined by protocols, such as TCP and IP, which enable diverse systems and devices to communicate effectively, regardless of their distinct characteristics.

Page 2: Properties and Need for Networks

Properties of Computer Networks

  • Facilitate communications via multiple mediums (email, video calling, instant messaging).

  • Permit data and file sharing among authorized users, enhancing collaboration in workplaces.

  • Allow sharing of resources (e.g., network printers, storage devices) to optimize costs and efficiency.

  • Present insecurity risks from hackers, viruses, and denial of service attacks, emphasizing the need for robust security measures.

  • Present complexity in setup and cost in larger organizations due to multiple devices and varying protocols.

Reasons for Networks

  • Load sharing between systems to manage resources effectively and avoid overload.

  • Message service for interpersonal communication, facilitating real-time connectivity.

  • Enhanced data sharing for efficient access, which is crucial for businesses and educational institutions.

  • Program and remote service sharing among connected systems, enabling businesses to run applications remotely and manage IT resources effectively.

Page 3: Network Terminologies

Intranet

A secured internal network connecting computers under a single administrative control. It is designed to share company information and computing resources among employees.

Extranet

An extension of an intranet allowing controlled access for external entities such as customers, suppliers, or partners, providing a collaborative space while maintaining security.

Local Area Network (LAN)

Connects devices in a limited geographic area (home, office, school), typically deploying Ethernet or Wi-Fi technology, enabling fast connection speeds.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

Covers large geographic areas, utilizing various media forms (telephone lines, airwaves, satellite) to connect multiple LANs.

Enterprise Private Network

Built by a company to interconnect its sites for resource sharing, commonly employing routers and switches to optimize data flow.

Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Links nodes over a larger network, traditionally for secure communication, enabling remote access to a company’s network with encryption to protect data in transit.

Page 4: History of the Internet

Key Developments

  • 1950s: ARPA (Advanced Research Projects Agency) founded to develop resilient communication systems.

  • 1969: ARPANET established as the first network to implement packet switching, facilitating secure, decentralized communication among four colleges.

  • 1970s: Protocols developed for network control, leading to NCP (National Control Protocol), which was revolutionary for communication standards.

  • TCP/IP adopted in the 1980s for flexibility in networks, enabling interconnectivity of diverse networks, resulting in the rapid growth of the Internet into the global network we rely on today.

Page 5: The Impact of the Internet

Digital Revolution

The Internet drastically transformed communication, becoming a platform for collaboration and information dissemination. It has integrated into various aspects of daily life, changing how we conduct business, socialize, and access information.

Commercial Development

  • Late 1960s: Early development of online games emerged alongside the first commercial uses of networks in sectors like education and research.

  • 1991: U.S. government opened the Internet to private enterprise, leading to rapid commercialization, growth of online marketing, and e-commerce, which has led to the creation of vast online economies.