Summary of Network Models and Switching Techniques - IT 0 Assignment

This assignment provides a comprehensive summary of key concepts from Chapters 2 and 8 of an IT course, focusing on computer and information networking. Chapter 2 delves into network models, including protocol layering, the TCP/IP protocol suite, and the OSI model, elucidating how computers communicate using established standards. Chapter 8 explores switching techniques, differentiating between circuit-switched and packet-switched networks, and examining the structure of a switch. The document covers the core principles of these models, providing insights into their functionalities and characteristics, such as delay, efficiency, and the role of switches in facilitating one-to-one communication within a network. The summary provides a clear understanding of the foundational elements of computer networking, making it a valuable resource for students studying the subject.

Running Head: IT 0
COMPUTER AND
INFORMATION
NETWORKING

IT 1
Summary of chapter 2
There are varieties of network models through which a computer send information to another
system under set standards and rules for the communication purpose. Protocol layering is the
first model that determines the rules for both receiver and sender in order to undertake
communication effectively. There can be a single layer or three layer protocol depending
upon the complexity of communication. The next model is TCP/IP which generally consists
of four layers providing services to the application software running on a computer and uses
several protocols at some layers. These include TCP/IP application layer, transport layer,
internet layer and network access layer. Each layer have its own functionality and to better
understand this, it is necessary to think about the logical connections between layers. The
next networking model is OSI where layers are divided into two groups – the upper layers
and lower layers. It is similar to the TCP/IP model, however, it has two more layers in
comparison i.e. session and presentation layer.
Summary of chapter 8
In a network of connected device, switching helps in connecting them to ensure one-to-one
communication through various interlined nodes called switches. There are three
conventional ways of switching that happens at different layers of the TCP/IP protocol suite.
The first is circuit-switched network where each connection relies upon a dedicated channel
and the actual communication needs of three phases – setup of connection, data transfer and
connection teardown. In terms of characteristics, they have minimal delay, however, lower
efficiency. The next is packet switching, where the message is divided through a packet-
switched network whether of fixed or variable size. There is a virtual circuit network which
shares characteristics of both a datagram network (where packets are treated independently of
all others) and circuit-switched network. In relation with the structure of a switch used in
different types of network, there are differences of a switch used in circuit-switched network,
in comparison to the packet-switched network.