What is Networking?
Networking in computers means connecting two or more devices so they can share data, resources, and communicate with each other. It can be small (like a home Wi-Fi) or huge (like the Internet).
TCP/IP Explained
TCP/IP is not code, but a set of rules (protocols) that define how computers communicate over the internet.
- IP (Internet Protocol): Handles addressing. It ensures every device has an IP address, so data knows where to go.
- TCP (Transmission Control Protocol): Ensures reliable delivery. Splits data into packets, numbers them, checks errors, and reassembles them.
Analogy: IP is like writing the address on an envelope. TCP is like making sure all letters arrive in the correct order and none are missing.
OSI vs TCP/IP Models
| Feature | OSI Model (7 layers) | TCP/IP Model (4 layers) |
|---|---|---|
| Use | Theoretical (for learning) | Practical (used on the Internet) |
| Layers | 7 (Application → Physical) | 4 (Application → Network Access) |
| Developed by | ISO | US Dept. of Defense |
| Focus | Standard framework | Real-world communication |