COM 121 / COE 301

INTERNET FUNDAMENTALS

Network
 A network, in computing, is a group of two or more devices that can communicate.
 In practice, a network is comprised of a number of different computer systems connected
by physical and/or wireless connections.
 The scale can range from a single PC sharing out basic peripherals to massive data
centers located around the World, to the Internet itself.
 Regardless of scope, all networks allow computers and/or individuals to share
information and resources.

Computer networks serve a number of purposes, some of which include:

1. Communications such as email, instant messaging, chat rooms, etc.
2. Shared hardware such as printers and input devices
3. Shared data and information through the use of shared storage devices
4. Shared software, which is achieved by running applications on remote computers

Some of the basic hardware components that can be used in networks include:
 Interface Cards: These allow computers to communicate over the network with a low-
level addressing system using media access control (MAC) addresses to distinguish one
computer from another.

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 Repeaters: These are electronic devices that amplify communication signals and also
filter noise from interfering with the signals. They are incorporated in networks to
expand its coverage area. They are also known as signal boosters.

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  Hubs: These contain multiple ports, allowing a packet of information/data to be copied
unmodified and sent to all computers on the network.

 Bridges: These connect network segments, which allows information to flow only to
specific destinations

Question: Outline the difference between a bridge and a repeater.

 Switches: These are devices that forward, make forwarding decisions and otherwise filter
chunks of data communication between ports according to the MAC addresses in the
packets of information. Routers: These are devices that forward packets between
networks by processing the information in the packet.

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  Firewalls: These reject network access requests from unsafe sources, but allow requests
for safe ones.

Internet
 The internet is a globally connected network system that uses TCP/IP to transmit data via
various types of media.
 The internet refers to the global communication system, including hardware and
infrastructure, while the web is one of the services communicated over the internet.

History of Internet
 The internet originated with the U.S. government, which began building a computer
network in the 1960s known as ARPANET.
 The system was replaced by new networks operated by commercial internet service
providers in 1995.
 The internet was brought to the public on a larger scale at around this time.

Advantages:

1. Access to Information: The internet provides easy access to an immense amount of

information on almost any topic. This enables individuals to learn, research, and stay
informed like never before.
2. Communication: The internet has revolutionized communication, allowing people to
connect with others globally through email, instant messaging, social media, and video
conferencing.
3. Online Education: The internet has made education more accessible. Online courses and
educational resources enable people to learn new skills and obtain degrees without being
tied to a physical location.
4. Business Opportunities: It has opened up new avenues for business. E-commerce allows
businesses to reach a global customer base, and remote work is more feasible, offering
flexibility to employees.
5. Entertainment and Streaming: The internet offers a plethora of entertainment options,
including streaming services for movies, TV shows, music, and video games.
6. Social Networking: Social media platforms enable people to connect with friends,
family, and colleagues, share experiences, and stay updated on news and trends.
7. Research and Innovation: Researchers and scientists can collaborate globally, share
findings, and accelerate the pace of innovation and discovery.

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 8. Convenience: The internet has made various tasks more convenient, such as online
shopping, online banking, and booking travel arrangements.
9. News and Information Dissemination: News and current events can be reported and
shared in real-time, increasing awareness and accountability.
10. Global Connectivity: The internet has reduced geographical barriers, enabling people
from different parts of the world to connect, collaborate, and bridge cultural gaps.
11. Access to Services: Online government services, healthcare information, and
telemedicine have become more accessible, improving convenience and healthcare
access.
12. Creative Expression: The internet provides a platform for creative expression, allowing
artists, writers, and content creators to share their work with a global audience.
13. Collaboration and Teamwork: Businesses and individuals can collaborate on projects
and work together in real-time, regardless of physical location.
14. Innovation and Startups: The internet has enabled the rapid growth of startups and
entrepreneurial ventures, fostering innovation and competition.
15. Environmental Benefits: The internet can reduce the need for physical travel, leading to
lower carbon emissions and environmental benefits.

Disadvantages:

Question:

Discuss potential pitfalls of the internet and outline possible mitigating measures to address
them.

1. Cybersecurity Threats:
o Malware and Viruses: The internet is a breeding ground for malicious software
like viruses, worms, and Trojans that can infect computers and compromise
personal information.
o Hacking and Data Breaches: Cybercriminals can exploit vulnerabilities to gain
unauthorized access to systems and steal sensitive data.
2. Privacy Concerns:
o Data Collection and Tracking: Companies and websites often collect user data
for various purposes, which can lead to concerns about privacy and potential
misuse of personal information.
o Online Surveillance: Governments and other entities may engage in online
surveillance, potentially infringing on individuals' privacy rights.
3. Misinformation and Fake News:
o Spread of False Information: The internet allows for the rapid dissemination of
information, but this also means that false or misleading information can spread
quickly, potentially causing harm or confusion.
4. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment:
o Social Media Issues: Platforms can be used for cyberbullying, harassment, and
other forms of online abuse, which can have serious psychological and emotional
consequences for victims.

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 5. Addiction and Distraction:
o Internet Addiction: Excessive use of the internet, especially in the form of social
media, gaming, and streaming, can lead to addiction-like behaviors and negatively
impact mental health and productivity.
o Reduced Focus: Constant online engagement can reduce attention spans and lead
to decreased productivity in other areas of life.
6. Digital Divide:
o Access Disparities: Not everyone has equal access to the internet. Socioeconomic
factors, geographic location, and infrastructure limitations can create a digital
divide, limiting opportunities for some individuals and communities.
7. Loss of Physical Interaction:
o Reduced Face-to-Face Interaction: Over-reliance on digital communication can
lead to a decline in face-to-face social interactions, potentially affecting social
skills and relationships.
8. Content Quality and Credibility:
o Information Overload: The vast amount of information available online can
make it challenging to discern credible sources from unreliable ones, leading to
potential misinformation.
9. Environmental Impact:
o Energy Consumption: Data centers and the infrastructure that supports the
internet require significant energy resources. This can contribute to environmental
issues and carbon emissions.
10. Legal and Regulatory Issues:
o Copyright Infringement: The ease of sharing digital content can lead to
copyright violations and intellectual property disputes.
o Regulation Challenges: Balancing freedom of expression with the need to
regulate harmful or illegal content online is a complex issue.

Intranet

 An intranet is a private computer network that operates within an organization, such as a

company, government agency, or educational institution. It uses the same technology as
the internet, including TCP/IP protocols, but it is isolated and accessible only to
authorized users.
 An Intranet differs from the internet, which is a public network.
 Intranet, which refers to an enterprise’s internal website or partial IT infrastructure, may host
more than one private website and is a critical component for internal communication and
collaboration.

Advantages:
 Privacy maintained within a company or an organization.
 More secure than internet.

Disadvantages:
 Cost of installation is high.

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Extranet
 An extranet is a controlled private network allowing customers, partners, vendors, suppliers and
other businesses to gain information, typically about a specific company or educational
institution, and do so without granting access to the organization's entire network.
 An extranet is often a private part of a website.
 It is restricted to select users through user IDs, passwords and other authentication mechanisms
on a login page.
Advantages:
 The ability to exchange large volumes of data using electronic data interchange.
 Sharing product data or catalogues with business partners.
 Joint company collaboration and training.
 Sharing services such as online banking applications among affiliated banks.

Disadvantages:
 expensive implementation and maintenance if hosted internally and the potential for
compromised sensitive or proprietary information.
 Alternately, it may be hosted by an application service provider.

Assignment 1-

Attempt the following questions and send to: jngare@mu.ac.ke

by 19th Sept. 2023 Time: 6 Pm.

1. The internet has revolutionized the way we live, work, and communicate, offering a wide
range of advantages and benefits. Give a detailed discussion of this.
2. Differentiate between a repeater and a switch as used in networking.
3. Discuss potential pitfalls of the internet and outline possible mitigating measures to
address them.
4. What are protocols. Discuss the following protocols:
a. HTTP
b. HTTPS
c. TCP/IP
d. FTPN