Editing Computer Networks (section)

== <span style="color: #FFFFFF;">Understanding</span> ==
Networking is understood through the '''OSI Model''' or the '''TCP/IP Model''', which breaks communication into layers.

'''The TCP/IP Layers (The Modern Standard)''':
1. '''Application Layer (HTTP/SMTP)''': What you see—your browser, email, or Slack.
2. '''Transport Layer (TCP/UDP)''': Ensures the data gets there. TCP "handshakes" with the receiver to make sure no packets were lost.
3. '''Internet Layer (IP)''': The "addressing" layer. Like a postal system, it puts the source and destination addresses on every packet.
4. '''Network Access Layer (Ethernet/Wi-Fi)''': The physical wires or radio waves that actually move the electricity/light.

'''How the Internet Works (The Journey of a Click)''':
When you type "bloomwiki.org":
1. Your computer asks a '''DNS Server''' for the IP address.
2. Your browser creates an '''HTTP Request'''.
3. TCP breaks that request into '''Packets'''.
4. Routers across the world look at the IP address and pass the packets along the most efficient path.
5. The destination server reassembles the packets and sends the data back.

'''Reliability vs. Speed''':
* '''TCP''': Used for websites and files. If a packet is lost, it is resent. (Reliable but slower).
* '''UDP''': Used for Zoom calls or online games. If a packet is lost, it is ignored (you just see a small glitch). (Fast but "lossy").
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