What are computer networks?

If you’re reading this book, chances are you know what a computer network is. This is because to function in the 21st century, you have to be able to use the internet, and the internet is nothing more than a global computer network. So, with that being said, what is a computer network? In short, a network is a way for computers and other electrical devices (such as printers, smartphones, tablets, or any other devices with either wired or wireless capabilities) to be able to communicate and share data. In other words, a computer network can best be thought of as a bunch of devices that are wired together so they can talk to one another.

Network topology

To get into a more advanced networking concept, we need to explore topology. In short, a network topology is a way a network is built. So, you can think of a topology as a layout of all the devices on a network and the way they are interconnected. In other words, a topology is a network blueprint...