Computer networking is the practice of connecting computers
together in order to share resources and communicate with one another. The
basic components of a computer network include:
- Network
Interface Card (NIC): A NIC is a piece of hardware that is installed in a
computer and connects it to the network. It is responsible for sending and
receiving data over the network.
- Switch:
A switch is a device that connects multiple devices together on a network.
It acts as a central hub and is responsible for forwarding data between
the connected devices.
- Router:
A router is a device that connects multiple networks together. It is
responsible for forwarding data between different networks and determining
the best path for the data to take.
- Cables:
Cables are used to physically connect devices to the network. The most
common types of cables used in networking are Ethernet cables, which
connect devices to switches and routers.
- Protocols:
Protocols are a set of rules and standards that define how data is
transmitted between devices on a network. The most commonly used protocol
for transmitting data over a network is the Internet Protocol (IP).
The different layers of the OSI model, we discussed earlier,
plays a crucial role in how these components work together to transmit data
over a network. The physical layer, for example, defines how data is
transmitted over the cables, while the network layer defines how data is routed
between different networks.
In addition to enabling communication and resource-sharing
between devices, computer networks also allow for remote access to data and applications and make it possible to connect to the Internet. These features
have become essential in today's business and personal computing environments.