KISII UNIVERSITY MAIN CAMPUS

School of arts and social science

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER
AS15/000632/24
CHEPKOECH DAMARIS
ASSIGNMENT 3
14/10/2024

1. A. Types of Computer Networks: Explain the

different types of computer networks, including
LAN, WAN, MAN, and PAN, and describe their
typical use cases.
2.  Discuss the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection)
model and its seven layers, explaining the role and
functionality of each layer in computer networking.
3.  Analyze the differences between wired and
wireless networking technologies, focusing on their
advantages, disadvantages, and applications.
4.  Evaluate the role of network protocols, such as
TCP/IP, in ensuring reliable communication across
the internet.
1. LAN (Local Area Network):
 - A LAN is a network that connects devices within a
limited geographical area, such as a home, office, or
school.
- LANs are typically used for personal or small-scale
networking, where the distance between the connected
devices is relatively short.
- Examples of LANs include home networks, small
office networks, and campus networks.
- LANs are often wired, using Ethernet cables to
connect devices, but they can also be wireless, using
Wi-Fi technology.
2. WAN (Wide Area Network):
- A WAN is a network that connects devices across a
larger geographical area, such as a city, country, or even
the entire world.
- WANs are used for larger-scale networking, where
the distance between the connected devices is much
greater than in a LAN.
 - Examples of WANs include the internet, national and
international telephone networks, and large corporate
networks.
- WANs are typically connected using a combination of
wired and wireless technologies, such as fiber optic
cables, satellite links, and cellular networks.
3. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network):
- A MAN is a network that connects devices within a
metropolitan area, such as a city or town.
- MANs are typically used for medium-scale
networking, where the distance between the connected
devices is greater than in a LAN but less than in a WAN.
- Examples of MANs include city-wide Wi-Fi networks
and cable TV networks.
- MANs are often a combination of wired and wireless
technologies, using a mix of fiber optic cables, coaxial
cables, and wireless networks.
4. PAN (Personal Area Network):
- A PAN is a network that connects devices within a
personal area, such as a single room or building.
 - PANs are used for personal or small-scale
networking, where the distance between the connected
devices is very short.
- Examples of PANs include Bluetooth connections
between smartphones, laptops, and other personal
devices.
- PANs are typically wireless, using short-range
wireless technologies like Bluetooth or Zigbee.
B. OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Model:
The OSI model is a conceptual framework that describes
the functions of a computer network in seven layers:
1. Physical Layer: Defines the physical characteristics of
the network, such as the type of cables, connectors, and
signaling used.
2. Data Link Layer: Provides error-free transfer of data
between adjacent network nodes.
3. Network Layer: Responsible for the routing and
forwarding of data between different network
segments.
4. Transport Layer: Ensures the reliable and efficient
transfer of data between end systems.
5. Session Layer: Manages the establishment,
maintenance, and termination of communication
sessions.
6. Presentation Layer: Responsible for the formatting
and presentation of data.
7. Application Layer: Provides the the user and the
network, and supports various network services.
C. Wired vs. Wireless Networking:
Wired Networking:
- Advantages: Higher bandwidth, more reliable, less
interference, better security.
- Disadvantages: Requires physical cables, more
expensive, less flexible.
- Applications: Corporate networks, data centers,
industrial environments.
Wireless Networking:
- Advantages: No need for physical cables, more
flexible, easier to install, lower cost.
- Disadvantages: Lower bandwidth, more susceptible to
interference, less secure, shorter range.
- Applications: Home networks, mobile devices, public
Wi-Fi networks.
D. Network Protocols and TCP/IP:
Network protocols are a set of rules and standards that
define how data is transmitted and received across a
network. The most widely used network protocol is the
Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol
(TCP/IP).
TCP/IP is responsible for:
- Addressing and routing data packets
- Breaking data into smaller packets for transmission
- Ensuring reliable and efficient delivery of data
- Controlling the flow of data and error detection
E. Network Security:
Common Network Threats:
- DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks:
Overwhelm a network or website with excessive traffic,
causing it to become unavailable.
- Man-in-the-middle attacks: Intercept and modify data
transmitted between two parties without their
knowledge.
- Packet sniffing: Monitor and capture data packets
transmitted over a network.
Mitigation Strategies:
- Implementing firewalls and intrusion detection
systems
- Using strong encryption and authentication
mechanisms
- Regularly updating and patching software and systems
- Employing redundancy and backup solutions
- Educating users about safe network practices