Networking Basics

This chapter analyses the characteristics of common network types. It describes the primary function of the different layers of the open systems interconnection (OSI) networking model. The chapter discusses how the layers of the OSI model correspond to the generation of network data transmission packets. It explains how different OSI model layers apply to cyber security issues. The chapter also describes standard networking topologies. In the Information Technology (IT) world, there are two basic types of networks: local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs). Campus area networks or corporate area networks (CANs) are combinations of interconnected local area networks inside a limited geographical area. Metropolitan area networks (MANs) are widespread combinations of interconnected local area networks inside a medium-sized geographical area. Wireless local area networks (WLANs) are local area networks of more than two devices that are connected by wireless radio communication methods.