4.2 THE BASICS OF NETWORKS NETWORKS AND THEIR COMPONENTS What is a computer network? A refers to a set of interconnected computers that can share resources, data and an Internet connection with each other. These computers use a system of rules called that enables them to transmit data and information over physical or wireless technologies. Networks may be classified according to the way they operate into or computer network communication protocol peer-to-peer client-server. Network components The components of a network can be grouped into two categories: hardware and software components. Hardware components : a powerful computer that stores data or applications and connects to resources that are shared by the users of a network. Server : the computer used by the users of the network to access the servers and shared resources (such as hard disks and printers), e.g. a workstation. Client : the devices that connect clients and servers to the channel, e.g. modems and network interface cards (NIC). Interface devices : a small device used to connect multiple devices in a network. The common standard for hardware connectivity is . Hub 1 ethernet 2 : similar to the hub but it divides the network into independent segments which reduce the of data travelling. Switch amount : a device which works as the central point between connected and wired or wireless networks and that manages communication traffic. Router : a device that connects a home network to the Internet service provider, or ISP, which is a company that provides access to the internet . Modem 1 : a device that connects networks belonging to different networking types. Gateway Software components : it enables computers connected by a network to exchange data, programs, peripherals, etc., and is usually installed on the server. Operating system 2 : a set of rules and guidelines that are followed by each computer in the network for data communication. Nowadays, the most commonly used is TCP/IP, which is the protocol for communication between computers on the Internet. Protocol suite MORE With a basic hub, the speed of the network is defined by the slowest network card connected. 1 MORE Ethernet is the traditional technology for connecting devices in a wired local area network (LAN). 2 DO Can you name at least three ISPs? 1 DO Do you remember what the main function of an operating system is? 2