notes-shivam

NETWORKS

4 min read

  • [[#characteristics-of-computer-networks|Characteristics of Computer Networks]]
  • [[#types-of-computer-networks|Types of Computer Networks]]
  • [[#common-network-components|Common Network Components]]
  • [[#benefits-of-computer-networks|Benefits of Computer Networks]]
  1. A computer network is a collection of interconnected devices that can communicate and share resources with each other.
  2. These devices can be computers, printers, servers, or other types of electronic equipment. Networks can be small, connecting only a few devices, or very large, spanning across continents and connecting millions of devices.
  3. Hardware and software are used to connect computers and tools in any network.
  4. Each computing device in a network is called a node or station.
  5. The nodes can be routers, personal computers, and servers.
  6. Data transformation is done via the network using rules known as protocols.

Characteristics of Computer Networks

  • Interconnection: A network is formed by connecting devices together. This can be done through cables, wireless signals, or a combination of both.

  • Communication: Devices on a network can communicate with each other by sending and receiving data. This data can be anything from simple messages to large files.

  • Resource sharing: Networks allow devices to share resources, such as printers, storage devices, and software applications. This can save money and improve efficiency.

Types of Computer Networks

  • Local Area Networks (LANs):
  1. These networks connect devices within a small geographical area, a short distance, such as a home, office, or school.
  2. LANs are typically wired networks, but wireless LANs are becoming increasingly common.
  3. LAN is the most frequently used network.
  4. A LAN encompasses two or more computers connected over a server.
  5. Examples of LAN are networking in a home, school, library, laboratory, college, office, etc.
  6. less expensive
  7. Faster speed and high security

  • Wide Area Networks (WANs):

  1. These networks connect devices over large geographical areas, such as across cities, countries, or even continents.
  2. WANs are typically made up of interconnected LANs.
  3. CONNECTS STATE TO STATE
  4. The Internet is the most well-known example of a WAN.

Metropolitan area network(MANs)

  1. A MAN is larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN.
  2. This is the type of computer network that connects computers over a geographical distance through a shared communication path over a city, town, or metropolitan area.
  3. A metropolitan area network is a network that covers a larger geographic area by interconnecting a different LAN to form a larger network.
  4. Government agencies use MAN to connect to the citizens and private industries.
  5. In MAN, various LANs are connected to each other through a telephone exchange line.
  • Personal Area Networks (PANs):
  1. These networks connect devices that are close to each other, such as personal computers, smartphones, and tablets.
  2. PANs are typically wireless networks, and they are often used to share files, music, and other data between devices.
  3. Its transmission speed is very high with very easy maintenance and very low cost.
  4. Examples of PAN are USB, computer, phone, tablet, printer, etc.

Common Network Components

  • Network Interface Cards (NICs): These are cards that allow devices to connect to a network. NICs are typically installed in computers and other electronic devices.

  • Hubs and Switches: These devices connect multiple devices on a network. Hubs simply connect devices together, while switches can intelligently route data between devices.

  • Routers: These devices connect multiple networks together. Routers determine the most efficient path for data to travel between networks.

  • Modems: These devices convert data between analog and digital signals. Modems are used to connect computers to the Internet.

  • Wireless Access Points (WAPs): These devices allow devices to connect to a wireless network. WAPs are typically used to create hotspots, which are areas where wireless devices can connect to the Internet.

Benefits of Computer Networks

  • Increased productivity: Networks allow people to share information and resources more easily, which can lead to increased productivity.

  • Improved collaboration: Networks can make it easier for people to collaborate on projects, regardless of their location.

  • Reduced costs: Networks can save money by allowing businesses to share resources and by eliminating the need for multiple copies of software and data.

  • Enhanced security: Networks can be secured using firewalls and other security measures to protect data from unauthorized access.

UP NEXT:

NETWORK TOPOLOGY

Graph View

Backlinks