How do computer networks work?
Computer networks connect multiple devices, such as computers, servers, printers, and routers, to allow them to communicate and share information. There are several key components and technologies that make this possible:
- Network Interface Card (NIC): Each device on a network has a NIC, which is a hardware component that allows the device to connect to the network. The NIC is responsible for transmitting and receiving data to and from the network.
- Media: The physical medium that connects the devices on a network can be wired (such as copper or fiber-optic cables) or wireless (such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth).
- Protocols: A set of rules and standards that govern the communication between devices on a network. The most commonly used protocols for computer networks are TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol).
- IP addresses: Each device on a network is assigned a unique IP address, which is used to identify the device and route data to and from it.
- Routers: A router is a device that connects multiple networks together and routes data between them. Routers use routing tables and routing protocols to determine the best path for data to take.
- Switches: A switch is a device that connects multiple devices on a single network and forwards data between them. Switches use MAC addresses to forward data to the correct device.
- Firewalls: A firewall is a security measure that is used to protect a network from unauthorized access. Firewalls can be hardware or software-based and use a set of rules to block or allow traffic based on certain criteria.
Once all these components are in place, devices on the network can communicate with one another. For example, a computer on a network can request a webpage from a server, the request will be passed through the router and switch to reach the server, then the server sends back the webpage to the computer, this process is done by following the protocols and IP addresses, and the Firewall will make sure the traffic is allowed and secure.
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