How Networks Work: Digital Systems and Nature's Communication
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by Colleen O'Rourke
What is a Network?
Sharing Information
A network is a group of connected points that share information.
Digital Examples
Think computers, phones, tablets, and even the internet!
Nature's Networks
Ant colonies, bird flocks, and even trees in a forest work together as networks!
Digital Network Basics
1
Rules of the Road
Digital networks use special rules called protocols to ensure data is sent correctly.
2
Data Delivery
Data travels in small packages called "data packets" to get from point A to point B.
3
Error Checking
Computers check if messages arrive correctly, just like teachers check homework.
4
Resending Messages
If a message has errors, it gets sent again until it arrives correctly.
Wireless Networks
Wi-Fi
You use Wi-Fi to connect your computer or tablet to the internet at home or school.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth connects your phone to headphones, speakers, or other devices without wires.
Nature's Networks: Ant Communication
1
Chemical Trails
Ants leave chemical trails called pheromones to guide others to food or their nest.
2
Following the Path
Other ants follow these trails, like a path through the forest.
3
Finding New Routes
If the trail gets broken, ants find new paths, just like computers finding new routes when connections break!
Bird Communication Networks
1
Calls and Songs
Birds use calls and songs to share messages, just like using a special language.
2
Danger Signals
Warning calls tell other birds about danger, like a siren alarm.
3
Finding Food
Location calls help birds find food, like a map with directions.
Network Problems and Solutions
1
2
3
1
Error Checking
Digital networks have ways to check for errors and fix them.
2
Backup Paths
Ants use multiple trails as backup paths, in case one gets blocked.
3
Repeating Calls
Birds repeat calls if they aren't heard, like saying something again more loudly.
How Data Moves
1
2
3
1
Data Packets
Data packets travel from one node to another in a digital network.
2
Chemical Trails
Chemical trails guide ants to food or their nest, just like a path.
3
Sound Waves
Sound waves travel through the air, carrying messages from one bird to another.
Network Safety
1
Passwords
Digital networks use passwords and codes to protect information.
2
Colony Scents
Ants use special colony scents to identify friends and keep enemies out.
3
Unique Calls
Birds use unique call patterns to recognize each other and avoid confusion.
Comparing Networks
