This document provides an overview of computer networking concepts including network types, basic elements, and additional resources for learning more. It defines Local Area Networks (LANs) as connecting resources within a single organization, Wide Area Networks (WANs) as connecting LANs over long distances, and Campus Area Networks (CANs) as connecting multiple nearby LANs belonging to the same organization. The basic elements described are servers that store shared data, client computers that access servers, IP addresses that identify devices, switches that connect devices on a LAN, routers that connect LANs, and Network Interface Cards that connect computers to networks. Additional learning resources about these topics are provided.

1. Networking 101

2. Network Size and Scale
• LocalArea Network (LAN)
• WideArea Network (WAN)
• Campus Area Network (CAN)

3. Local Area Network (LAN)
• intended for use at a single building or office
• connects computing resources within a single organization
(desktop, laptop, printer, etc.)

4. Wide Area Network (WAN)
• connects a single office or branch LAN to its parent
organization’s network and all the millions of networks that
together make up the Internet

5. CampusArea Network (CAN)
• connects multiple LANs belonging to the same organization
when they’re in close geographic proximity

6. Basic Elements of a Network
• server
• client
• IP address
• Network Interface Card (NIC)
• switch
• router

7. Server
• powerful computers that store data or applications and
connect to resources that are shared by the users of the
network
• Post Office Headquarters

8. Client
• computer used by the users of the network to access the
servers and shared resources (such as hard disks and
printers)
• Houses

9. IP Address
• the identifier that enables your device to send or receive
data packets across the internet
• holds information related to your location and therefore
making devices available for two-way communication
• House Addresses

10. Switch
• hardware device that connects multiple devices on a
computer network
• distributes messages among the computers and other
devices on a single LAN
• Mailperson

11. Router
• hardware device which is used to connect a LAN with an
internet connection
• used to receive, analyze, and forward the incoming packets
to another network
• Regional distribution centers

12. Network Interface Card (NIC)
• Hardware component used to connect a computer with
another computer onto a network
• Wired orWireless
• Mailbox/PO Box

13. Additional Resources
Videos
• Hub, Switch, & Router Explained -What's the difference?
• Learn basic networking in 4 minutes (VERY IMPORTANT
CONCEPTS)
Reading
• Computer Network Components