Dataverkkojen

Dataverkkojen (data networks) are systems of interconnected communication links and devices that enable the exchange of data between computers, sensors, and other digital endpoints. They can be classified by geographic scope as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), metropolitan area networks (MANs), or personal area networks (PANs); networks may be wired, wireless, or a combination of both.

Core technologies include packet switching, routing and switching hardware, and common communication protocols such as TCP/IP, UDP, DNS, and HTTP/S. The most widely deployed physical media are Ethernet over copper or fiber and wireless standards such as Wi-Fi. Addressing uses MAC addresses on the data link layer and IP addresses on the network layer. The OSI model and the TCP/IP model provide layered frameworks for design and interoperability.

History and standardization: modern data networks emerged from early research networks in the 1960s and 1970s, culminating in ARPANET. TCP/IP became the dominant protocol suite in the 1980s, and Ethernet and Wi-Fi standards led the way for LANs and WLANs. Standards bodies such as ISO, IEEE, and IETF coordinate development and interoperability, while administration of global addressing is managed by organizations like IANA/ICANN in the IP domain.

Security and management: networks face risks including eavesdropping, unauthorized access, and disruptions. Protection relies on encryption, firewalls, VPNs, secure configurations, and continuous monitoring. Network management uses protocols such as SNMP, logging, and performance analytics.

Applications and trends: data networks underpin the Internet, cloud services, corporate intranets, and the expanding Internet of Things. Emerging areas include software-defined networking (SDN), network function virtualization (NFV), and edge computing, which aim to increase flexibility and efficiency while reducing latency.