A computer network refers to a group of computers linked together to share resources and information. It enables communication and collaboration, forming the basis for the Internet and other networked systems.

A switch is commonly used in LAN environments to connect multiple devices and manage data traffic. It efficiently directs data and helps reduce network congestion within local networks.

The Internet Protocol (IP) is crucial for addressing and routing data packets between devices on a network. It ensures that data reaches the correct destination using unique IP addresses.

LAN stands for Local Area Network, which connects computers within a limited geographic area. This type of network is commonly used in homes, schools, and offices to share resources and information.

In a bus topology, all devices are connected to a single communication line or cable. This design is simple and cost-effective, though it can become a bottleneck if the central cable experiences issues.

The Transport layer is responsible for reliable data transfer and end-to-end communication between hosts. It uses protocols like TCP to ensure error control and proper data sequencing.

A router directs data packets between different networks by determining the most efficient path for data transmission. This function is essential for connecting various subnetworks and ensuring seamless communication.

HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure and is used to encrypt data between a web server and a browser. This encryption ensures secure communication and protects sensitive information during online transactions.

A peer-to-peer network allows devices to communicate directly with each other on an equal basis. This decentralized approach distributes resources and responsibilities across all nodes, rather than relying on a central server.

Wireless networks provide the flexibility of mobility and ease of installation since no physical cables are required. This allows devices to connect and move freely within the network's coverage area.

Bandwidth measures the maximum rate at which data can be transferred over a network connection in a given period. It is a critical factor in determining network performance and data throughput.

CRC, or Cyclic Redundancy Check, is widely used to detect accidental changes to raw data in digital networks. It helps ensure data integrity by allowing systems to detect errors during data transmission.

A firewall is designed to monitor and control network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It acts as a barrier between trusted internal networks and untrusted external networks, protecting systems from potential threats.

Routers are critical networking devices that connect different network segments and direct data packets along optimal paths. They ensure that information is transmitted efficiently from one network to another.

TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) is vital because it ensures that data is delivered reliably and in the correct order. It manages error detection, retransmission of lost packets, and stream control, making it essential for robust network communication.

Subnetting divides a large network into smaller sub-networks, which helps reduce broadcast traffic and improves overall performance. It also enhances security by isolating segments so that issues in one subnet don't compromise the entire network.

DNS acts as the Internet's directory, converting human-friendly domain names into numerical IP addresses that computers use for routing data. This process is critical for enabling users to access websites using familiar names rather than difficult-to-remember numerical addresses.

Distributed systems ensure fault tolerance by replicating data and services across several nodes. This redundancy means that if one component fails, others can continue operating, thereby maintaining system availability.

Mesh topology provides multiple interconnections between nodes, offering excellent redundancy and reliability. However, its complexity and higher installation cost can be significant drawbacks compared to simpler architectures.

Network congestion control manages the rate at which data is sent over the network to prevent overload. By dynamically adjusting data flow, it minimizes packet loss and delays, ensuring efficient and stable network performance.