AKLAN STATE UNIVERSITY

College of Computer Studies

Kalibo, Aklan

Week 1: January 27-31, 2025

Subject: NETWORKING 101

I. INTRODUCTION TO DATA COMMUNICATION.

What is Data Communication?
Data communication refers to the exchange of information or data between two or more devices, such as computers,
smartphones, or IoT devices. This exchange occurs over a transmission medium, such as cables or wireless signals,
and follows a set of predefined rules, or protocols, to ensure the reliable and efficient transfer of information.
The primary purpose of data communication is to enable devices to share information, collaborate, and perform
various tasks seamlessly, whether within a local environment or across global networks.

Components of Data Communication

1. Sender (Source)

 The device or entity that initiates and transmits the data.

 Examples: Computers, smartphones, sensors, or servers.

2. Receiver (Destination)

 The device or entity that receives the transmitted data.

 Examples: Another computer, a printer, or any networked device.

3. Message

 The actual data or information being transmitted.

 Examples: Text, images, audio, video, or files.

4. Transmission Medium

 The physical or logical pathway through which the message travels.

 Types:
o Wired Media: Twisted-pair cables, coaxial cables, fiber optics.
o Wireless Media: Radio waves, microwaves, infrared signals.

5. Protocol

 A set of rules or standards that govern the communication process between the sender and receiver.
 Examples: TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP, SMTP, or Bluetooth protocols.
Feedback

Acknowledgment or response from the receiver to the sender, confirming that the message has been
successfully delivered or processed.

Feedback is a crucial component of data communication that ensures successful interaction between the sender and
receiver. It provides confirmation that the message has been received, understood, and processed by the receiver.

Key Aspects of Feedback in Data Communication:

1. Purpose of Feedback
o To confirm whether the message was successfully delivered.
o To ensure that the data is understood correctly.
o To notify the sender of any errors or issues in the communication process.
2. Types of Feedback
o Positive Feedback: Indicates that the message was received and understood as intended.
Example: An acknowledgment packet (ACK) in network communication.
o Negative Feedback: Signals that there was an issue in receiving or understanding the message,
requiring retransmission or clarification.
Example: A "Request for Retransmission" (NACK) in networks.
o Neutral Feedback: Does not directly confirm or reject the message but provides updates or additional
data.
3. Forms of Feedback
o Explicit Feedback: Clearly communicated acknowledgment, such as an email response or a delivered
notification.
o Implicit Feedback: Indirect acknowledgment, such as the receiver performing an expected action
after receiving instructions.
4. Importance of Feedback
o Promotes reliability and accuracy in communication.
o Helps detect and correct errors during the transmission process.
o Enhances the efficiency of communication systems by confirming successful interactions.

Attributes of Effective Data Communication

1. Accuracy:
The transmitted data should be received without errors. Techniques like error detection and correction are used
to maintain accuracy.
2. Timeliness:
Data must be delivered within a suitable timeframe, especially in real-time applications like video calls or
online gaming.
3. Efficiency:
The communication system should optimize resource usage, such as bandwidth and power, to handle data
transmission effectively.
4. Security:
Ensuring data confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity to protect it from unauthorized access or tampering.
5. Scalability:
The system should be able to accommodate more devices or users as needed without degrading performance.
Modes of Data Communication
1. Simplex:
Data flows in only one direction, with no feedback or return

2. Half-Duplex:
Data flows in both directions, but only one direction at a time

3. Full-Duplex:
Data flows in both directions simultaneously
Applications of Data Communication
1. Internet:
Facilitates access to websites, emails, and online applications.
2. Telecommunication:
Powers voice calls, video calls, and messaging services.
3. IoT (Internet of Things):
Connects smart devices like wearables, smart homes, and industrial systems.
4. Cloud Computing:
Enables remote storage, processing, and sharing of data over networks.
5. Business Operations:
Supports collaborative tools, enterprise resource planning, and customer relationship management.

Benefits of Data Communication

 Enhanced Connectivity: Allows seamless interaction between devices, individuals, and organizations.
 Increased Productivity: Facilitates faster and more efficient information exchange.
 Global Reach: Enables real-time communication across the globe.
 Resource Sharing: Makes it possible to share data and hardware resources (e.g., printers, servers).
 Automation: Powers automated systems in industries, healthcare, and smart cities.
Data communication is the backbone of modern digital systems, driving innovations in technology, business, and
daily life.
UNDERSTANDING NETWORK
Human Network
A human network refers to the interconnected relationships and interactions among people, either on a personal,
professional, or societal level. Just as computer networks connect devices for data exchange, human networks connect
individuals to share knowledge, collaborate, and support one another. These networks can exist in physical spaces,
such as communities and workplaces, or in virtual spaces, such as social media platforms and online forums.
Types of Human Networks
1. Social Networks:
Personal connections between individuals, including family, friends, and acquaintances. Examples include
social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
2. Professional Networks:
Relationships formed in professional contexts, often to exchange expertise, find job opportunities, or
collaborate. Examples include LinkedIn and industry associations.
3. Community Networks:
Groups formed within local communities or around shared interests, such as neighborhood associations, clubs,
or volunteer organizations.
4. Knowledge Networks:
Networks dedicated to learning and knowledge sharing, such as academic collaborations, mentorship
programs, or online learning communities.
5. Cultural Networks:
Groups connected through shared cultural or artistic pursuits, such as art collectives or cultural heritage
organizations.

Computer Network
A computer network is a system of interconnected devices, such as computers, servers, and other hardware, that
communicate and share data, resources, and information. These devices are linked through various transmission
media, such as cables, fiber optics, or wireless signals, and follow specific protocols to ensure smooth
communication. Computer networks form the backbone of modern technology, enabling the internet, cloud
computing, and real-time communication.

Types of Computer Networks

1. Based on Size and Scope:
o Local Area Network (LAN): Covers a small area like an office, home, or campus.
LAN A local area network (LAN) is a network that connects computers and devices in a limited
geographical area such as a home, school computer laboratory, office building, or closely positioned
group of buildings. Each computer or device on the network, called a node, often shares resources
such as printers, large hard disks, and programs. Often, the nodes are connected via cables. A
wireless LAN (WLAN) is a LAN that uses no physical wires. Very often, a WLAN communicates with a
wired LAN for access to its resources.

o Wide Area Network (WAN): Spans large areas, such as cities, countries, or continents. The internet is
the largest WAN.
A wide area network (WAN) is a network that covers a large geographic area (such as a city, country, or the
world) using a communications channel that combines many types of media such as telephone lines, cables,
and radio waves (Figure 8-8). A WAN can be one large network or can consist of two or more LANs
connected together. The Internet is the world’s largest WAN.

o Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): Connects networks within a city or large campus.
A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a high-speed network that connects local area networks in a
metropolitan area such as a city or town and handles the bulk of communications activity across that region.
A MAN typically includes one or more LANs, but covers a smaller geographic area than a WAN. A MAN
usually is managed by a consortium of users or by a single network provider that sells the service to the
 users. Local and state governments, for example, regulate some MANs. Telephone companies, cable
television operators, and other organizations provide users with connections to the MAN
o Personal Area Network (PAN): A small network for personal devices, such as Bluetooth or infrared
communication.

2. Based on Architecture:
o Client-Server Network: A centralized model where a server provides resources and services to client
devices.
On a client/server network, one or more computers act as a server; the other computers on the network
request services from the server (Figure 8-9). A server controls access to the hardware, software, and other
resources on the net- work and provides a centralized storage area for programs, data, and information. The
clients are other computers and mobile devices on the network that rely on the server for its resources. For
example, a server might store a database of customers. Clients on the network (company employees) access
the customer database on the server.
o Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Network: A decentralized model where devices share resources directly without a
central server.
One type of peer-to-peer network is a simple, inexpensive network that typically connects fewer than 10
computers. Each computer, called a peer, has equal responsibilities and capabilities, sharing hardware (such
as a printer), data, or information with other computers on the peer-to-peer network. Each computer stores
files on its own storage devices. Thus, each computer on the network contains both the network operating
system and application software. All computers on the network share any peripheral device(s) attached to
any computer. For example, one computer may have a laser printer and a scanner, while another has an ink-
jet printer and an external hard disk. Peer-to-peer net- works are ideal for very small businesses and home
users
3. Based on Transmission Medium:
o Wired Network: Uses cables for connectivity, such as Ethernet.
o Wireless Network: Uses wireless signals like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks.
4. Based on Topology:
o Bus Topology: Devices are connected to a single central cable.
o Star Topology: Devices are connected to a central hub or switch.
o Ring Topology: Devices are connected in a circular arrangement.
o Mesh Topology: Devices are interconnected, providing redundancy.
o Hybrid Topology: A combination of two or more topologies.

How Computer Networks Work

1. Data Transmission:
Data is broken into packets that travel through the network to their destination.
2. Addressing:
Every device has unique addresses (IP address and MAC address) to ensure data reaches the correct
destination.
3. Routing:
Devices like routers determine the most efficient path for data to travel.
4. Protocols:
Protocols like TCP/IP manage how data is sent, received, and reassembled.
5. Security:
Encryption, firewalls, and other measures protect data from unauthorized access and cyber threats.
IMPORTANCE OF NETWORKING
1. Communication and Collaboration
 Efficient Communication: Networking enables instant communication through email, messaging, video conferencing, and voice
calls.
 Collaboration: Teams can work together in real time, even if they are geographically separated, using collaborative tools like
Google Workspace or Microsoft Teams.

2. Resource Sharing
 Hardware Sharing: Devices like printers, scanners, and storage drives can be shared across multiple users.
 File Sharing: Networking allows users to share files and data quickly and securely without physical transfer.
 Internet Sharing: A single internet connection can be shared across all devices in a network.

3. Cost Efficiency
 Reduced Hardware Costs: Shared resources, like servers and storage, reduce the need for individual devices.
 Lower Communication Costs: Networking minimizes costs associated with traditional communication methods (e.g., mail, long-
distance calls).

4. Centralized Data Management

 Data Accessibility: Centralized storage systems (e.g., servers or cloud storage) allow authorized users to access data from
anywhere.
 Backup and Recovery: Networks facilitate centralized backups, reducing the risk of data loss.

5. Scalability
 Easily Expandable: New devices and users can be added to the network with minimal effort and cost.
 Flexible Architecture: Networking supports various configurations (e.g., star, tree, mesh) for scalability.

6. Improved Productivity
 Faster Access to Information: Employees can quickly retrieve information from shared databases.
 Automation: Tasks like software updates, monitoring, and maintenance can be automated in a network.

7. Enhanced Security
 Controlled Access: Networks allow centralized user authentication and access controls.
 Monitoring: Activity across the network can be monitored to detect and prevent unauthorized access.

8. Business Continuity
 Disaster Recovery: Networking enables redundant systems and backup servers to ensure minimal downtime during failures.
 Remote Work: Employees can securely access resources from anywhere, ensuring operations continue even during disruptions.

9. Internet of Things (IoT)

 Smart Devices: Networking connects IoT devices (e.g., smart homes, wearable devices) for automation and improved quality of
life.
 Real-Time Monitoring: Enables applications like smart cities, healthcare, and industrial automation.

10. Learning and Development

 Access to Knowledge: Networking provides access to vast online resources, e-learning platforms, and collaborative tools.
 Global Connectivity: Networks connect individuals and organizations worldwide, fostering learning and cultural exchange.

11. Competitive Advantage (For Businesses)

 Faster Decision-Making: Real-time data sharing enables quicker and more informed decisions.
 Customer Interaction: Businesses can interact with customers directly through websites, social media, and customer support
platforms.
12. Innovation and Creativity
 Cross-Pollination of Ideas: Networking fosters innovation by enabling the exchange of ideas between individuals or organizations.
 Opportunities: Professional networking opens doors for partnerships, job opportunities, and career growth.