Networking Basics: Protocols, IP, DNS, and More
Understanding networking fundamentals is essential for cybersecurity, as networks form the backbone of digital communication. Key concepts include:
Protocols:
- HTTP/HTTPS: Protocols for accessing web pages, with HTTPS ensuring encrypted communication.
- FTP/SFTP: Protocols for file transfer, with SFTP adding security via encryption.
- SMTP/IMAP/POP3: Protocols for sending and receiving emails.
IP Addressing:
- IPv4: The traditional addressing format, such as 192.168.1.1.
- IPv6: A newer format designed to handle the growing number of devices, such as 2001:0db8:85a3::8a2e:0370:7334.
DNS (Domain Name System):
A system that translates domain names (e.g., www.example.com) into IP addresses.
DNS is a common target for cyberattacks, such as DNS spoofing and cache poisoning.
Subnets and Network Masks:
Subnets divide larger networks into smaller segments, improving security and efficiency.
Ports and Services:
Networks use ports (e.g., port 80 for HTTP) to enable specific services.
Unused or open ports can be exploited by attackers.
These foundational concepts provide the building blocks for understanding how data flows across networks and the vulnerabilities that arise.