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NETWORKING FUNDAMENTALS
We are living in a world of data and information. This information will be of no use if not shared amongst people
scattered across the globe. Connecting the devices and making this data and information sharable is done by using the
concept of computer network. This unit deals with the basic fundamental concepts of networking and the Internet.
Networking helps in sharing of resources and allowing the users to access these resources irrespective of their physical
locations. We say that a computer network creates an environment where users and computers can connect globally.
Computer networks can now be defined as a connect between two or more devices like laptops, mobiles, touchpads
and others. They are interconnected through wired or wireless media for the purpose of sharing data and information.
The network size may vary from small to large depending on the number of devices connected. It can be limited to a
small room or may span a city or a country or connect the entire world.
Types of Network
On the basis of the amount of physical territory a network occupies, can be classified as follows:
• PAN (Personal Area Network): It is a network of devices connected over a very short distance and occupies a range
around individuals. In PAN, the devices included are laptops, smartphones and desktop. The network is capable of
sending/receiving emails, transfer data, digital photos, music files and book calendar appointments. It may be wired
or wireless transmission (Bluetooth/Infrared). The simplest example is connection between wireless earplugs and
smartphone using Bluetooth.
Printer PDA
Laptop
Desktop PC Smartphone
• LAN (Local Area Network): It is a network of devices connected within a confined physical area that spans few
kilometers. For example, computers connected within a school or number of offices connected within a building or
number of devices connected within a home.
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