> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://devops-3.gitbook.io/devops/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://devops-3.gitbook.io/devops/docs/module-2-network-basics/introduction-to-network.md). # Introduction to Network A network consists of two or more electronic devices or objects linked in order to share resources, exchange files, or allow electronic communications. ### Computer Network Computer networking refers to interconnected computing devices that can exchange data and share resources with each other.

### What is Internet? The Internet is a larger network that allows computer networks controlled by enterprises, governments, colleges, and other organizations all over the world to communicate with one another. The Internet is a vast network of networks that functions as a networking infrastructure. It links millions of computers throughout the world, creating a network in which any computer can talk with any other computer as long as they are both linked to the Internet. The Internet is a global network of interconnected computers that communicate and share information using a standardized Internet Protocol Suite. ### What Do Computer Networks Do? Computer Networks are one of the important aspects of Computer Science. In the early days, it is used for data transmission on telephone lines and had a very limited use, but nowadays, it is used in a variety of places. Modern computer networks have the following functionality: * Computer Networks help in operating virtually * Computer Networks integrate on a large scale * Computer Networks respond very quickly in case of conditions change * Computer Networks help in providing data security ### What is Network Topology? The structure of the network and how each component is connected to the others are defined by the network topology. Different types of network topology are mentioned below: * Bus Topology * Ring Topology * Star Topology * Mesh Topology * Tree Topology ### **Bus Topology** Every computer and network device is connected to a single cable in a bus topology network. Linear Bus topology is defined as having exactly two terminals.

### **Ring Topology** The topology is named ring topology because one computer is connected to another, with the final one being connected to the first. Exactly two neighbors for each device. A signal is passed along the ring in one direction. Each ring incorporates a repeater.

### **Star Topology** Each device in a star topology has a dedicated point-to-point link to a central controller, which is commonly referred to as the HUB. There is no direct connection between the devices. Traffic between the devices is not allowed in this topology. As an exchange, the controller is used.

### **Mesh Topology** Every device in a mesh topology has dedicated point-to-point connectivity to every other device. The term “dedicated” refers to the fact that the link exclusively transports data between the two devices it links. To connect n devices, a fully connected mesh network contains n \*(n-1)/2 physical channels.

### **Tree Topology** The topology of a tree is similar to that of a star. Nodes in a tree, like those in a star, are connected to a central hub that manages network traffic. It has a root node, which is connected to all other nodes, producing a hierarchy. Hierarchical topology is another name for it. The number of Star networks is connected via Bus in Tree Topology.

{% hint style="info" %} Computer networking is essential because it allows computers to connect and communicate with each other. {% endhint %} --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://devops-3.gitbook.io/devops/docs/module-2-network-basics/introduction-to-network.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.