Network Concepts in PDF Upload and Viewer Application

Demo

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1xcoGO4_g3Mm-jwh9qKMlFCWDh6o52_7Z?usp=drive_link

Overview

This report outlines the key network concepts demonstrated in our PDF Upload and Viewer application, which simulates file transfer over a network. The application showcases fundamental principles of computer networking, particularly focusing on client-server architecture and data transmission.

Client-Server Model

The application is built on the client-server model, a fundamental concept in network computing:

• Client: Represented by the user's browser, initiating requests to upload and view PDFs.
• Server: Our Next.js server, handling file storage and serving PDF files.

Network Protocols (Simulated)

While not explicitly implemented, the application simulates the use of key network protocols:

• HTTP/HTTPS: For file upload and retrieval, operating at the Application Layer (Layer 7) of the OSI model.
• TCP/IP: Implied for reliable, ordered, and error-checked delivery of data packets.

Data Encapsulation and Decapsulation

The process of uploading and downloading PDFs demonstrates the concept of data encapsulation and decapsulation:

1. Encapsulation (Upload): The PDF file is "encapsulated" into packets for transmission.
2. Decapsulation (Download): The received packets are reassembled into the original PDF file.

Network Layers (OSI Model Reference)

The application touches on several layers of the OSI model:

• Application Layer (Layer 7): User interaction with the web interface.
• Presentation Layer (Layer 6): PDF formatting and encoding.
• Session Layer (Layer 5): Maintaining the user's session during upload/download.
• Transport Layer (Layer 4): Simulated reliable data transfer (implied TCP).
• Network Layer (Layer 3): Routing of data packets (simulated in visualization).

File Transfer Concepts

• Chunking: Large PDF files are typically broken down into smaller chunks for efficient transfer.
• Buffer Management: Handling of data buffers during file upload and download processes.

Network Visualization

The application includes a visual representation of data transfer:

• Packet Transmission: Represented by the moving red dot.
• Nodes: Client and server depicted as network endpoints.
• Data Flow: Visualization of unidirectional data flow during upload/download.

Security Considerations (Implied)

• Data Integrity: Ensuring uploaded files are not corrupted during transfer.
• Access Control: Only allowing viewing of successfully uploaded files.

Conclusion

This application serves as a practical demonstration of fundamental networking concepts, particularly focusing on file transfer in a client-server model. It provides a visual and interactive way to understand the basics of network communication, data transmission, and the layered approach to network architecture as described by the OSI model.