642 Network Mechanisms and Processes
642.1 Overview
Network mechanisms are the fundamental building blocks that make the Internet and IoT communication possible. This chapter series covers how data is represented, packaged, switched, and delivered across networks - essential knowledge for building reliable IoT systems.
Every IoT device communicates over networks. Understanding how data is packaged, addressed, and transmitted is fundamental to building reliable IoT systems. Whether youโre connecting sensors to gateways or devices to cloud platforms, these network mechanisms form the foundation of all IoT communication.
642.2 Chapter Series
This topic has been organized into four focused chapters:
642.2.1 1. Data Representation in Networks
Learn the fundamentals of how digital data is represented and sized:
- Binary representation - How bits (1s and 0s) encode all information
- Bytes and data sizes - From bytes to terabytes and IoT memory constraints
- Network data rates - Understanding bits per second vs bytes
- IoT constraints - Working within limited device memory
Estimated time: 15 minutes
642.2.2 2. Datagrams and Packet Structure
Understand how data is packaged for network transmission:
- Datagram structure - Headers, payloads, and addressing information
- Protocol encapsulation - How each layer adds its own header
- Circuit vs packet switching - Why packet switching dominates IoT
- MTU and fragmentation - Working within network size limits
Estimated time: 20 minutes
642.2.3 3. Packet Switching and Network Performance
Explore how packets traverse networks and measure performance:
- Packet switching mechanics - How routers make forwarding decisions
- Multiplexing - Sharing network links among multiple streams
- Network resilience - Automatic rerouting around failures
- Bandwidth vs throughput vs goodput - Understanding performance metrics
Estimated time: 20 minutes
642.2.4 4. Converged Networks and Channel Access
Learn about modern network architectures and wireless coordination:
- Converged networks - Single infrastructure for voice, video, data, and IoT
- CSMA/CA - How wireless devices share radio channels
- Quality of Service - Prioritizing critical IoT traffic
- Interactive simulation - Visualize channel access in action
Estimated time: 25 minutes
642.3 Learning Path
For the best learning experience, complete the chapters in order:
- Data Representation - Build foundation with bits and bytes
- Datagrams - Understand packet structure
- Packet Switching - Learn how packets traverse networks
- Converged Networks - Explore modern architectures
Each chapter builds on concepts from the previous one.
642.4 Prerequisites
Before starting this series, you should be familiar with:
- Networking Basics - Fundamental networking concepts, protocols, and the OSI model
- Layered Network Models - Understanding where these mechanisms fit within the networking stack
642.5 Key Concepts Covered
| Topic | Description |
|---|---|
| Binary/Bytes | Digital representation of data |
| Datagrams | Self-contained packets with headers and payloads |
| Encapsulation | How protocol layers wrap data |
| Packet Switching | Independent routing of each packet |
| Multiplexing | Sharing links among multiple streams |
| Bandwidth | Theoretical network capacity |
| Throughput | Actual measured data rate |
| Goodput | Usable application data |
| Converged Networks | Single infrastructure for all services |
| CSMA/CA | Wireless collision avoidance |
| QoS | Traffic prioritization |
642.6 Whatโs Next
After completing this series, continue with:
- Layered Network Models - OSI and TCP/IP reference models
- IP Addressing and Subnetting - Configure network addresses
- Routing Fundamentals - How packets find their paths
- Transport Protocols - TCP and UDP in detail