NI - Networks and the Internet [OVERVIEW]

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Networks and the Internet

Introduction

Computers are incredibly complex devices that work together seamlessly to transfer data across networks. From sending messages to your friends to even shopping on your favorite websites, your computer is breaking down data to move across the network. These sophisticated machines are designed to process vast amounts of information at incredible speeds, allowing us to communicate, learn, and be entertained in ways never imagined before. Digging deeper, allows us to take a closer look at how in everything we do, there is some type of connection to ensure efficiency in a network.

Learning Questions

  • Identify and differentiate between the basic components of computers focusing on inputs, storage, processing, and output.
  • Assess characteristics of networks.
  • Investigate and explain how data moves through the layers of the OSI model during transmission.

Module Key Terms

Bus topology | Each node is linked to one other node only.

Central Processing Unit (CPU) | The brain of the computer; receives input information and executes commands from other hardware and software.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) | Focuses on graphics, which are images of all kinds (pictures, animations, videos). Delivers graphics to view on the computer screen.

Hardware | The physical components of a computer.

Input | Parts used to send information to a computer, including keyboards, mouse, game controller.

Local area network (LAN) | An interconnected system limited in size and geography. It typically connects computers and devices within a single office or building.

Mesh topology | Every node is connected to many other nodes.

Output | Parts that the computer that returns the computer’s instructions, as results, to the user. Examples include monitors, printers, and speakers.

Personal area network (PAN) | A network used by just one person to connect multiple devices, such as laptops to scanners.

Process-Run programs | Interpret input, and supply output.

Random-access memory (RAM) | A fast, temporary form of storage. All data and instructions that are currently being executed are stored in RAM. RAM is volatile, that is, all data is erased from your RAM when your computer is turned off. 

Ring topology | Each node is linked to two other nodes, forming a ring.

Software | The set of programs (instructions) that tell a computer what to do; the set of instructions a computer uses to complete any instructed task.

Star topology | A central server node is linked to multiple client network devices.

Storage | Parts the computer uses to store information, including hard drives, USB flash drives, and RAM.

Wide area networks (WAN) | An enterprise network spanning buildings, cities, and even countries.

Wired | A network that uses a physical media to transfer data between two or more nodes.

Wireless | Consists of transmitters and receivers. Nodes connect wirelessly to these transmitters and receivers to complete the network.

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