Networking Tutorials

Open System Interconnection Model

The Open System Interconnection Reference Model is used to detail the description for layered communications in computer networks. It is also used for the purpose of designing computer network protocols. This model, which was developed as part of the ISO’s Open System Interconnection initiative to standardize the networking arena, consists of seven layers.

This small tutorial on the OSI model gives an introductory description of each of the layers.

Physical and Link Layers

The Physical Layer, which is Layer 1 of the model, defines the electrical and physical specifications for devices used in networking. The Link Layer, which is Layer 2 of the OSI model basically outlines the functional means to effect data transfer between adjacent network entities.

This tutorial throws light on key aspects of the Physical and Link Layers.

Network Layer

The Network Layer is Layer 3 of the OSI reference model. This layer takes care of the connectivity and the selection of the path between two particular end systems of a computer network.

This tutorial talks about the Network Layer and the forms of addressing which are used in order to identify hosts on a network.

Transport Layer

This tutorial talks about the Transport Layer.

The Transport Layer looks after the transfer of data between end users. As Layer 4 of the OSI model, the Transport Layer controls the reliability of a given link with the help of flow control, segmentation/desegmentation, and error checking. It can monitor segments and retransmit any that fail to reach their destination, depending upon whether the protocol used is connectionless or connection-oriented.

Equipment Types

Several devices are required in order to get a computer network up and running. This tutorial describes the basic equipment that would need to be deployed.

Equipment Models

This tutorial describes the most common models of network devices that are put to use.

Network Optimization

When your network has grown multifold from the days it used to be small and easy to manage, it is time to go for optimization. An overall performance boost is aimed at after completing a process of measuring the network’s workload characteristics to a certain level and then modifying the complete layout, design and configuration.

This tutorial explores that very subject.

Troubleshooting the Network

Read this tutorial to learn about the two core aspects of network management: preventing problems and troubleshooting.

Monitoring the File Server

A NetWare 4 server requires monitoring for several aspects. These include memory utilization, communications, and NDS activities. It is also important to be able to monitor user connections and the configuration on the server. This tutorial provides information about monitoring the file server.

TCP/IP Networks

It is a widely accepted notion that TCP/IP-based networks play a key role in computer networks. This could well be because of their open specification and no vendor dependence. This tutorial page examines the emergence of TCP/IP networks and the commercial applications of this protocol suite.