Network Communication Fundamentals
What is a Communication Protocol’s Mission?
A communication protocol’s mission is to regulate aspects of communication.
Hierarchical Layer Structure
What is Each Layer?
Each layer interacts with its lower level, which requests services, and the upper level, which returns results.
Multiple Access Unit (MAU)
Define, Draw, and Explain a MAU
A MAU contains an inner ring that comes out. The network appears to be a star (for its advantages) but functions as a ring. If the MAU detects a node disconnection, it bypasses it to maintain the ring’s integrity.
Service Access Point (SAP)
Explain SAP as a Service
SAP is a door through which layer entities access and exchange service information. It’s like a numerical address or entry point.
Transducers
What is a Transducer? Examples
A transducer is a device that changes the nature of a signal. Examples include microphones, speakers, and keyboards.
Communication Story Types
Simplex: Data transmission is always in one direction.
Half-duplex: Communication can be bidirectional but not simultaneous.
Duplex: Two-way communication is simultaneous.
Peer Network
What is a Peer Network? Other Network Organizations?
A peer network has all computers sharing resources without hierarchy. Computers can act as clients (accessing resources) or servers (providing resources). Other network types include Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN), Personal Area Networks (PAN), and Wireless Local Area Networks (WLAN).
De Facto vs. De Jure Standards
What Differentiates De Facto from De Jure Standards?
A de jure standard is certified by an accredited organization. A de facto standard is adopted by a majority group of individuals.
OSI Model Layers
Ordered Table of OSI Layers and Functions
- Application: Implementation level providing user services.
- Presentation: Formats and interprets data for the application layer.
- Session: Manages communication sessions and timing.
- Transport: Ensures reliable data delivery to the destination.
- Network: Routes data to its destination using the most efficient path.
- Data Link: Controls data flow, timing, and error checking.
- Physical: Handles physical connection aspects like transmission medium and hardware.
Socket Mapping Elements
The socket defines a bidirectional connection between processes.
TCP/IP Utilities
Serve, Use, and Return of TCP/IP Commands
- Ping: Sends messages to a network address to confirm connectivity.
- Ipconfig: Provides host address and configuration information.
- Tracert: Shows network hops to a destination and internet parameters.
- Telnet: Enables remote connections via a virtual terminal.
Twisted Pair Wires
Why Lead Twisted Pair Wires?
Leading twisted pair wires reduces interference and increases power.
UTP and STP
UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) has no external metallic coating. STP (Shielded Twisted Pair) has a metallic coating to prevent external interference, requiring grounding.
Common Cable Category
Category 5 is the most commonly used twisted pair cable category.
Main Connector for Twisted Pair Cables
RJ45 is the main connector for twisted pair cables.
Tools for Connecting RJ45
RJ45 Male: Crimping tool. RJ45 Female: Krone tool.
Network Card
Other Names for Network Card
Network adapter, Network Interface Card (NIC).
Ports Connecting Network Card
PCI port, ISA port.
Ethernet Frame Padding
Padding ensures an Ethernet frame meets the minimum length requirement if the data is short.
Cable Construction Standards
TIA 568A and TIA 568B are standards for cable construction.
Straight-Through vs. Crossover Cables
Straight-through cable: Both ends have the same wiring distribution (either 568A or 568B).
Crossover cable: One end has 568A distribution, and the other has 568B.