Networking Essentials: Bytes, Protocols, and Global Connectivity
Networking Essentials: Bytes, Protocols, and Global Connectivity Networks move data from one device to another through a mix of signals, cables, and airwaves. Each step follows clear rules, so devices can understand each other even across distances. Understanding the basics helps you pick gear, set up home networks, and solve simple problems. In this article, we explore bytes, protocols, and global connectivity in plain terms. Bytes and bits: The smallest unit is a bit, a 0 or 1. Eight bits form one byte, the building block for all file sizes. Data grows in kilobytes, megabytes, and beyond. When you download a song, a photo, or a document, your device sends a stream of bytes along a path designed by the network. Knowing this helps you estimate file sizes and plan storage. ...