Computer Networking

Computer networking is the process of linking computer devices together so they can share data and resources. Early computer networks used a variety of protocols, such as Ethernet, to connect devices. Today, most computer networks use the TCP/IP protocol. TCP/IP stands for Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol.

TCP/IP is a set of rules that govern how data is transmitted over a network. TCP is responsible for ensuring that data is delivered error-free, while IP is responsible for routing data packets to their destination.

Computer networks can be categorized into different types, based on their scope or scale. Local area networks (LANs) connect devices in a single location, such as a home or office. Wide area networks (WANs) connect devices across larger distances, such as across cities or states. Metropolitan area networks (MANs) are a type of WAN that is designed to connect devices in a specific region, such as a city.

The Internet is the largest computer network in the world. It is a global network of interconnected computer networks. Every device connected to the Internet is assigned a unique IP address.