Introduction to Networks

First lesson. Foundation stuff. Network devices, clients, servers. Basic but important.

What Is a Network?

Devices (nodes) that can talk to each other and share stuff. That’s it.

Common network devices:

• Router
• Switch
• Firewall
• Server
• Client (End Host)

Clients and Servers

Client - asks for stuff. Your phone opening YouTube = client.

Server - gives you stuff. YouTube’s servers = server.

A device can be both. PC1 asks PC2 for a file → PC1 is client, PC2 is server. Roles flip depending on who’s asking.