Networking Fundamentals: Protocols, Cables, and Communication
Common LAN Protocol Families
SNA, NetWare, AppleTalk, NetBEUI, and TCP/IP.
Network Architecture Definition
A layered body of network protocols enabling communication between nodes.
The OSI Model
A reference model for layered architecture in computer networks and distributed systems, proposed by ISO’s Open Systems Interconnection standard. It’s a reference, not a network architecture.
LLC Sublayer Role
Ensures error-free communication of frames built from network layer information.
Ohm’s Law and Signal Attenuation
All electrical signals experience decreased energy when transmitted.
UTP vs. STP Cables
UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) is susceptible to interference, compensated by twisting. STP (Shielded Twisted Pair) adds a metallic coating for interference protection, requiring grounding.
LAN Physical Connection Elements
Cables, connectors, baluns, transceivers, rack cabinets, hoses, chutes, connector plates, and rosettes.
IEEE Standard and Ethernet Protocol
IEEE defines a LAN standard using CSMA/CD (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection) for media access.
Structured Cabling
Technique for flexible computer changes and moves on a network, characterized by modularity and flexibility.
Transmission Medium
Hardware facilitating information transport, crucial for data communication. Capacity depends on physical and mechanical properties.
Optical Fiber Types
- Singlemode
- Multimode graded index
- Step index multimode
Common Structured Cabling Standards
ANSI/TIA/EIA-568 and ANSI/EIA-569.
Telematics Definition
Remote communication between processes.
Communication vs. Transmission
Communication is transmitting information via a signal. Transmission is the physical signal transport.
Communication System Elements
Transmitter, receiver, and channel.
Bandwidth Definition
Difference between the maximum and minimum transmittable frequencies.
LAN vs. WAN
LAN interconnects devices in a private, restricted area. WAN interconnects computers over a wide area.
Transmission Modes
- Simplex: One-way data transmission.
- Half-duplex: Bidirectional, but not simultaneous.
- Duplex: Simultaneous bidirectional communication.
Transmission Types
Synchronous, asynchronous, serial, parallel, analog, and digital.
Modulation vs. Multiplexing
Modulation converts digital signals to analog for transmission. Multiplexing combines signals from different sources on a single channel.
Communication Line Types
Point-to-point, multipoint, private, and dedicated public lines.
Telephone Basics
Transmission lines, communication power, and telephone terminals.
Switch
Operates at OSI Layer 2, similar to a bridge. Unlike a hub, a switch provides dedicated bandwidth per port.
VLAN
A Virtual Local Area Network connects computers based on configurable parameters, not physical location.