This document provides an overview of different types of computer networks: 1) A simple network connects two devices like computers directly via a wire or cable for communication. 2) A local area network (LAN) connects a group of computers in a home, school, or office building. It features a switch to control traffic to a local server and a firewall to protect the LAN from internet threats. 3) Larger wired networks connect LANs to the internet via phone or cable lines from an Internet Service Provider, which then connects to the global fiber optic internet backbone.

1. Intro to Networks

2. Simple Network
In a simple network, two computers (or other
networkable devices) make a direct connection with
each other and communicate over a wire or cable.

3. Local Area Network (LAN)
Local area networks often feature a group of computers
located in a home, school, or part of an office building. Here the
switch controls traffic to the local server and the firewall
protects the LAN from potential threats from the Internet.

4. Larger Wired Networks
Ethernet cables connect computers in a LAN, which then
connect out to the Internet Service Provider (ISP)
via phone or cable TV lines, which in turn connects to the
Internet Backbone made up of fiber optic cable.

5. Network Cables
Ethernet Cable Fiber Optic Cable
Core - Thin glass center of the fiber where the light travels
Cladding - Outer optical material surrounding the core that
reflects the light back into the core
Category 5 cable includes four twisted pairs Buffer coating - Plastic coating that protects the fiber
in a single cable jacket. from damage and moisture
This use of balanced lines helps preserve a
high signal-to-noise ratio.

6. Internet Backbone
Each line is drawn between two nodes, representing two IP addresses.
This is a small look at the backbone of the Internet.

7. ISP
ISP
User User
Internet
LAN
LAN
User User
User User
User
User

8. How Does Information Travel in a Network?
Packets
All information is broken down into binary bytes which
travel along communication lines as packets.
Protocol
Information is exchanged across networks through
protocols, which is a shared networking language that
determines connection and transfer of packets.

9. Wireless Network
A wireless access point translates and
transmits information as radio waves.
Any device with a wireless receiver can
join the wireless network once it is given
an IP address.

10. What are some other
kinds of Networks?

11. Cell Phone Network
Cell Phone Tower

12. Social Network

13. Neural Network