Internetworking is the practice of connecting multiple computer networks via a common routing technology. It is a process of connecting two or more computer networks so that they can exchange information. This enables computers on one network to access data or services on another network. Internetworking is the basis for the modern Internet and is used to enable communication between different networks, such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and metropolitan area networks (MANs). Internetworking can also be used to connect different types of networks, such as Ethernet, Token Ring, and FDDI. It can also be used to connect different types of topologies, such as bus, star, and ring. Internetworking technologies include routers, switches, firewalls, virtual private networks (VPNs), and network address translation (NAT).
In short, internetworking is a means of interconnecting multiple networks so that they can communicate with each other. By doing so, it allows users to access a variety of services and information from a single point of access. Internetworking is an essential part of any modern network infrastructure, providing access to data, services, and applications.
Principles of internetworking
1. Layering: A network is made up of many components, each of which can be logically divided into layers. Each layer provides specific functions and services to the layer above it.
2. Addressing: Each device on a network must have a unique address that is used to identify it.
3. Routing: Routing is the process by which data is passed from one device to another device over a network.
4. Protocols: Protocols are sets of rules and conventions used to define how data is transmitted between two devices.
5. Connectivity: In order for two devices to communicate, they must be able to establish a physical connection.
6. Error Detection: Error detection is the process of ensuring that data is received without errors.
7. Security: Security measures are used to prevent unauthorized access to data.