This document provides an overview of computer networks, including their goals, applications, terminology, and technologies. Some key points:
- Networks allow for resource sharing, reliability through redundancy, and lower costs through shared infrastructure. Common applications include file sharing, access to remote databases, and communication.
- Network components include nodes, servers, switches, routers, and more. Communication occurs via various transmission media like twisted pair, coaxial, fiber optic, radio waves, and satellites.
- Protocols govern network communication and include TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP, and others. Wireless technologies enable mobile computing through standards such as GSM, CDMA, GPRS, and emerging generations of cellular networks.