| When studying computer networks, one must | | | | according to the application. |
| consider the main elements that will compromise | | | | 3. Devices: there are two basic types of devices |
| the computer network. The main elements that | | | | in the network: end user devices and network |
| must be considered will be presented below: | | | | devices. The end user device is considered to be |
| 1. Message: the message is a generic term that | | | | the source of the message. It can be a client |
| scribes the data to be transmitted. It can be | | | | computer or an IP phone. The function of the end |
| email, webpage, user call, instant message, or any | | | | user device is to send the data to the network. |
| other forms. The message is generated by the | | | | On the other hand, the network devices are used |
| end user that needs to make the transmission. | | | | along with the medium to forward the data |
| This message will be fed to the network later. | | | | generated by the end user device. They are |
| Generally, the message is generated using | | | | located in between the end user devices and |
| software installed on computer. For example, if | | | | connected between them through the cables. |
| the message is email, it will be generated by email | | | | The main function of the computer network |
| programs such as outlook. Also if the message is | | | | devices is to forward the data to the correct |
| a web page request, it will be generated by a | | | | destination based on the address that is send |
| browser such as internet explorer. It can also be | | | | along with the data. The two main devices that |
| generated by a chatting program is it represents | | | | accomplish this are the routers and the switches. |
| a call by the user. | | | | The router forwards the data according to the IP |
| 2. Medium: the medium is the transmission path | | | | address while the switch forwards the data |
| over which the data will be transmitted. Is is used | | | | according to the MAC address inside the data |
| to connect the end user with the network device | | | | frame. |
| or to connect the network devices with each | | | | 4. Rules: the rules are the protocols that used |
| other. | | | | between the end user devices that organize the |
| Many types exist for the medium. Mainly it can be | | | | communication. The two popular protocols are the |
| wired or wireless medium. The wired medium can | | | | IP protocol and the TCP protocol. When the end |
| be copper or optical fibers. The copper is | | | | user needs to send the data, it runs a |
| subdivided into coaxial cables and twisted pairs. | | | | conversation first with the other device according |
| The copper wires carry data as electrical pulses | | | | to a set of rules that prepares for the |
| while the optical fiber carry data as light pulses. | | | | transmission. Each network uses its own protocols |
| The wireless medium carries data as | | | | set up by the administrator of the network to |
| electromagnetic waves. Each of the above | | | | manage the operations inside the network. |
| mediums has its own specifications and used | | | | |