Overview
This lecture provides an introduction to the Computer Networks subject, outlines its importance, key topics, exam weightage, and recommended resources.
Importance of Computer Networks
- Computer Networks is a core engineering subject relevant for Computer Science, Electronics, and IT branches.
- Appears in major competitive exams and is vital for industry placements, especially in network-related roles.
- Offers broad career opportunities with high salary packages in areas like AI, security, and network management.
Exam Pattern & Strategy
- The subject accounts for 8-10 marks out of 70 technical marks in exams.
- Typical questions split as 25% theory (one/two mark questions) and the rest numericals.
- Key to success: focus on formulas, basic concepts, and problem-solving skills.
Recommended Books
- "Data Communication and Networks" by Forouzan (McGraw-Hill)
- "Computer Networks" by Tanenbaum (Pearson)
- "Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach" by Kurose & Ross (Pearson)
- Prefer standard books for clear concepts and exam preparation.
Major Topics & Blueprint
- Basics of data communication: simplex, half/full duplex communication, topologies, WAN, LAN, OSI model.
- Important models: OSI, TCP/IP.
- Communication types: serial/parallel, synchronous/asynchronous.
- Multiplexing methods: TDM, FDM, CDM.
- Transmission media: guided (cables, fiber) and unguided (radio, microwave).
- Switching techniques: packet, datagram, circuit, message switching.
- Error and flow control: sliding window, access control methods, Ethernet, Token Ring.
- Network layer concepts: logical addressing (classful/classless), subnetting, supernetting, routing protocols (RIP, OSPF), error reporting.
- Transport layer: process-to-process delivery, protocols (TCP, UDP, SCTP), session management.
- Application layer: basics of cryptography, data compression, DNS, FTP, HTTP, SMTP.
Key Terms & Definitions
- OSI Model — A 7-layer framework for network communication.
- Multiplexing — Combining multiple signals over a single medium.
- Subnetting — Dividing networks into smaller segments.
- Routing Protocol — Algorithm to determine data paths in a network.
- TCP/UDP/SCTP — Transport layer protocols for data transfer.
- Sliding Window Protocol — Method for flow control in networking.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review recommended textbooks for each major topic.
- Practice numerical and theoretical questions from previous exams.
- Breakdown each subject topic for focused study as per the blueprint.