Introduction
In today’s digital world, computers are connected everywhere. Whether in schools, offices, banks, or homes, computers communicate with each other through networks. Understanding computer networks is very important for Class 8 students because it helps them learn how the internet works and how data is shared across the world.
What is Network?
A computer network is a group of two or more computers connected together to share data, resources, and information.
Main Parts of a Network:
- Sender – The device that sends the data.
- Receiver – The device that receives the data.
- Medium – The path through which data travels (like cables, Wi-Fi, fiber).
Example:
When you send an email from your laptop to your teacher, your laptop is the sender, the teacher’s computer is the receiver, and the internet is the medium.
Types of Networks
PAN (Personal Area Network)
A small network used by one person.
Example: Bluetooth connection between phone and earphones.
LAN (Local Area Network)
A network within a small area like a school or office.
Example: School computer lab network.
CAN (Campus Area Network)
A network that connects multiple LANs within a campus.
Example: University campus network.
MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)
A network covering a city.
Example: City-wide cable TV network.
WAN (Wide Area Network)
A network covering large areas or countries.
Example: The Internet.
Internet Terminology
Intranet
A private network used inside an organization. Example: School internal website
URL (Uniform Resource Locator)
The address of a webpage. Example: www.google.com
IP Address
A unique number given to each device on a network.
Example: 192.168.1.1
ISP (Internet Service Provider)
A company that provides internet.
Example: Jio, Airtel.
DNS (Domain Name System)
Converts website names into IP addresses.
Website
A collection of related webpages.
Example: www.wikipedia.org
Webpage
A single page of a website.
Web Portal
A website that provides various services.
Example: www.india.gov.in
MODEM
Converts digital data to analog signals and vice versa.
Switch
Connects devices in a LAN and sends data to the correct device.
Router
Connects different networks and manages traffic.
Hub
Connects devices but sends data to all devices (less secure).
Gateway
Connects two different networks.
Link
A connection between two webpages.
Hypertext
Text that contains links.
Hyperlink
Clickable text that opens another page.
Bandwidth
The speed of data transfer. Measured in Mbps.
Protocol
A protocol is a set of rules that allow computers to communicate with each other.
Important Protocols:
HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol)
Used to open websites. Function: Transfers webpages.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol)
Used to transfer files between computers.
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol)
Main protocol of the internet. Function: Ensures safe and correct data delivery.
IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol)
Used to receive emails and access them from multiple devices.
SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol)
Used to send emails.
Introduction to Cloud Computing
Cloud Computing means storing and accessing data over the internet instead of a computer hard drive.
Characteristics of Cloud Computing:
- Internet-based storage
- Accessible anytime, anywhere
- Automatic backup
- Scalable storage
Benefits:
- Saves storage space
- Data safety
- Easy sharing
- Cost-effective
Example:
Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive
Using Cloud Computing
We can use cloud services to:
- Store files (Google Drive, OneDrive)
- Share documents
- Online meetings (Zoom)
- Online classes
- Backup photos
Example:
If you upload a file to Google Drive, you can open it on your mobile, laptop, or share it with friends using a link.
Conclusion
Computer networks play a vital role in today’s world. From sending emails to watching online videos, everything works through networks. Understanding types of networks, internet terminology, protocols, and cloud computing helps students build strong digital knowledge. Cloud computing has made data storage and sharing easier than ever before. Learning these concepts in Class 8 creates a strong foundation for future computer studies.