Networking - Basics of Networking

Understanding the Internet

  • The Internet is an interconnection of computers worldwide, similar to a giant spider web.

  • It allows computers to communicate and share data through networks.

    • A simple network can consist of just two computers, and more extensive networks connect computers in schools, workplaces, etc.

  • Ultimately, billions of interconnected computers form the Internet.

Internet vs. World Wide Web

  • The Internet is a physical network of computers and cables.

  • The World Wide Web is the information accessed through the Internet using addresses like www.google.com.

  • Other ways to access the Internet include email, chat, and file-sharing applications.

Networking in IT

  • Networking refers to managing, building, and designing computer networks.

  • It is a critical field in IT with specialized jobs and college programs available.

  • Understanding networking fundamentals is essential for IT professionals.

Components of the Internet

  • The Internet comprises numerous physical elements:

    • Servers that store websites and serve content to clients.

    • Clients (like mobile phones and laptops) that request content from servers.

    • Internet Service Providers (ISPs), like CenturyLink and Comcast, connect home networks to the larger Internet.

Network Structure

  • ISPs build and maintain networks that connect millions of computers.

  • These ISPs interconnect with other networks, including those of universities and organizations.

  • This network forms a giant web that constitutes the Internet.

Addressing in Networks

  • Computers use identifiers akin to mailing addresses to communicate:

    • An IP address is like a house address in the digital realm, composed of numbers (e.g., 172.217.46.0).

    • A MAC address is a unique identifier hard-coded into devices, serving like a recipient's name on a letter.

  • Both addresses ensure data reaches the correct location and recipient.

Data Transmission

  • Information sent through a network is broken into packets, which consist of binary data (ones and zeros).

  • Regardless of the data type (email, pictures, or text), it is sent in packet form and reassembled upon arrival.

Packet Routing Example

  • Example scenario:

    • Natalie’s computer with IP address 113.88.12 requests to access google.com (IP address 172.217.646).

    • A packet is sent out to ask whether google.com is accessible, routing through intermediary locations.

  • The packet navigates through various destinations until it reaches a point capable of delivering it to google.com.

  • Google then responds by sending back packets of information, enabling Natalie to view cat pictures.