Networking Concepts
Every time you access files via a file-sharing program, make a video call or access the Internet, you are using a computer network – something which requires expert design, construction, operation and maintenance from computer networking experts.
Local area networks (LANs) are wired or wireless connections that allow computers to share resources and communicate. A LAN may connect multiple buildings within one building or room or cover an entire campus or city.
Routers are devices that connect networks by transmitting data packets between them until they arrive at their final destinations, providing efficiency to large networks. Bridges and switches operate at the OSI model’s data link layer (layer 2) by associating physical ports with MAC addresses; bridges pass data along according to bridge ID, while switches forward frames based on destination MAC addresses; they also combine multiple bus networks into tree networks, increasing both scalability and performance.
Network Diagramming
Network diagrams provide a visual depiction of a computer network. They may show the physical layout of servers, workstations, routers, and firewalls or Specific Interactions or types of data which flow between network components.
Start by listing all of your equipment and its locations, then use network diagramming software to add icons for each type of hardware. Connecting lines show how these elements are linked together either physically or logically – some programs like Lucidchart offer premade icons for tools like servers and firewalls for easier network mapping.
Before beginning any project work, it is imperative to review a network diagram carefully and check all information contained within it. A thorough network diagram can help to prevent costly mistakes like typographical errors and incorrect configuration of network components; additionally it can ensure activities are carried out in their correct sequence thereby saving both time and resources for the team as a whole.
Network Security
Network security refers to the practices and protocols implemented to secure computer networks from unauthorized access, data breaches and other forms of malicious activity. Network security should be prioritized as an essential element of all computer networks – regardless of whether they belong to businesses, organizations or individuals.
Different networks require specific Security Requirements, depending on their purpose and user base. A campus network must allow access to certain applications while restricting outsiders’ access, while business networks need to secure sensitive financial and intellectual property from hackers.
Network security involves three goals: preventing unauthorized access, detecting and stopping cyber attacks as they happen and making sure authorized users have access to network resources they require. To meet these objectives, various mechanisms exist such as firewalls, anti-virus software, intrusion detection systems and access control mechanisms – these allow administrators to classify devices and users, grant or deny access based on identity criteria and deny noncompliant endpoints entry to network resources.
Network Management
Network management is the daily task of overseeing your network. It includes overseeing all devices within it to ensure they function as they should and don’t pose a security risk, using processes to manage network configurations, fault detection/resolution/accounting management/performance monitoring and more.
Network devices such as firewalls, routers, switches and access points must all be properly managed to meet compliance standards for their industries or locations. This may involve installing and configuring software updates as well as meeting any industry or location-specific compliance standards.
Network management also involves using SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) to monitor and control devices on your network remotely, providing valuable insight into error rates and device temperatures as well as tracking bandwidth consumption to aid cost control for Business Operations and provide future-looking planning and improved efficiency for your organization.