Page 4 - M. Abrahim Thesis

2.61 Data Transfer Calculation 32

2.7 Networking Models 32

2.7.1 Using Layers to Describe Data Communication 33

2.7.2 The OSI Reference Model 33

2.7.3 Introduction to TCP/IP 37

2.8 Peer-to-Peer Communications 43
2.8.1 Encapsulation De-Encapsulation Process 46

2.8.2 Encapsulation 46

2.8.3 De-Encapsulation 48

2.9 Networking Devices 49

2.9.1 End-user devices that provide users with a connection to the network are also called
hosts. 49

2.9.1.1 Network Interface Cards 49

2.9.2 Network devices 50

2.9.2.1 Repeaters 50

2.9.2.2 Hubs 51

2.9.2.3 Bridges 52

2.9.2.4 Layer 2 Switches 54

2.9.2.5 Routers 54

2.10 Network Topologies 55

2.10.1 Physical Topology 55

2.10.1.1 Bus Topology 56

2.10.1.2 Star and Extended-Star Topologies 57

2.10.1.3 Ring Topology 58

2.10.1.4 Hierarchical Topology 59

2.10.1.5 Full-Mesh and Partial-Mesh Topologies 60

2.10.2 Logical Topology 60

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