Computer Networks

some definitions:

1. Telecommunication : (tele means far) means communication at a distance which includes telephone, telegraph, television.
2. Data: It refers to the fact, concepts and instructions presented in whatever form agreed upon by the parties.
3. Data Communication : Exchange of data between two devices via some form of transmission medium.

Fundamental Characterstics of Data Communication:

• Delivery: system must deliver data to correct destination
• Accuracy: system must deliver data accurately, unaltered.
• Timeliness: Data delivered without significant delay will be useless. like in video conferencing.

Components of Data Communication:

1. Message : the information/data
2. Sender: device that sends messages
3. Receiver: device that receives messages
4. Medium: physical path by which data travels
5. Protocol: set of rules that govern data communication

NETWORK : set of nodes connected by communication links.