NetworkingBasics
Understanding how computers communicate is essential in today's connected world. Learn the fundamentals of networking that power the internet.
What is Computer Networking?
Computer networking refers to the practice of connecting multiple computing devices together to share resources and communicate. These networks can be as small as two computers or as vast as the global internet, connecting billions of devices worldwide.
Key Networking Concepts
- IP Addressing
Every device on a network needs a unique identifier called an IP address, which works like a digital postal address.
- Routers & Switches
These devices direct traffic between networks and connect devices within a network, respectively.
- Protocols
Rules that govern how data is formatted, transmitted, and received across networks (e.g., TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP).
Types of Networks
Local Area Network (LAN)
A network confined to a small geographic area, like a home, office, or campus. LANs typically use Ethernet or Wi-Fi connections.
Wide Area Network (WAN)
A network that spans a large geographic area, often connecting multiple LANs. The internet is the largest example of a WAN.
How Data Travels Across Networks
When you send data across a network, it's broken down into small packets. Each packet contains the source and destination addresses, along with a portion of the data. Routers examine these packets and determine the best path for them to reach their destination.
This process happens billions of times per second across the internet, allowing for the seamless transfer of information around the world.
Want to Learn More?
Explore our other educational resources to deepen your understanding of networking, internet privacy, and online security.