Monday, January 30, 2012

Lab No. 1

Objective:
To understand the basic concepts of Computer Network and its type also define describe briefly OSI layers.

Theory: A network is a collection/combination of hardware components connected through a wired or wireless medium which enables us to share data and information based on our needs. Computer Network can be classified as follows on the basis of how the components are connected, in what fashion and how much users can utilize this network: LAN Local Area Network. The computers are geographically close together or function in a small area that is, in the same building. In addition to operating in a limited space, LANs are also typically owned, controlled, and managed by a single person or organization. MAN Metropolitan Area Network. A data network designed for a town or city. For intercity communication or for the communication between different parts of a same city. Their range of operation is few hundreds of kilometers. WAN Wide Area Network. In this type of network systems are farther apart. Like the communication between the cities in a country. Their range of operation is few thousands of kilometers. OSI layers. The OSI, or Open System Interconnection, model defines a networking framework for implementing protocols in seven layers. Control is passed from one layer to the next, starting at the application layer in one station, and proceeding to the bottom layer. Here the layers:
Layer 1: OSI Physical Layer

It is a medium in which data is transferred between transmitter and receiver. It also describes the physical properties of the various communications media for example this layer defines the size of Ethernet coaxial cable, the type of BNC connector used. Its another example is HUB which contain 2 to 4 ports, which is a device for connecting multiple Ethernet devices together and making them act as a single network.

Monday, January 30, 2012

Layer 2: OSI Data link Layer

Data is in the form of frame. It also describes the logical organization of data bits transmitted on a particular medium.
Layer 3: OSI Network Layer

Data is in the form of packets. It also describes how a series of exchanges over various data links can deliver data between any two nodes in a network. It also contains a routing table in which the IP addresses of the source and destination are present.
Layer 4: OSI Transport Layer

It describes the quality and nature of the data delivery. Example: this layer defines if and how retransmissions will be used to ensure data delivery. Typical examples of the OSI transport layer are the TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol).
Layer 5: OSI Session Layer

This layer establishes, manages and terminates connections between applications. The session layer sets up, coordinates, and terminates conversations, exchanges, and dialogues between the applications at each end.
Layer 6: OSI Presentation Layer

This layer provides independence from differences in data representation (e.g., encryption) by translating from application to network format, and vice versa. It encrypts or decrypts data to secure it from cyber threats.
Layer 7: OSI Application Layer

This layer supports application and end-user processes. Everything available on this layer is application-specific. This layer provides services for file transfers, e-mail. FTP are applications that exist entirely in the application level.