Computer networking is the ability of computer systems to exchange information with each other over a network. It is different from simply connecting computers together to share files or access resources. A computer network is a set of interconnected computers that functions as one united server or group of computers acting as a single, unified system.
A computer network can be made up of individual computers working in conjunction with internet service providers (ISPs), data storage providers, and telecommunications companies. Or it can be a virtual organization made up of hundreds of separate networks linking computers in a central location such as a university, corporation or an office building.
Regardless of its scope, the end result is the same – this information technology (IT) infrastructure allows businesses to efficiently manage their digital presence and grow their business by establishing links between various geographically dispersed locations via the internet.
What is a Computer Network?
Computer networks are networks made up of computers that communicate with each other through some form of communication protocol. These protocols allow for the transfer of data at speeds that are beyond the capability of individual computers.
Computer networks also allow for the transfer of information that has been encrypted for security reasons. A computer network can be made up of individual computers working in conjunction with internet service providers (ISPs), data storage providers, and telecommunications companies.
Or it can be a virtual organization made up of hundreds of separate networks linking computers in a central location such as a university, corporation or an office building. Regardless of its scope, the end result is the same – this information technology (IT) infrastructure allows businesses to efficiently manage their digital presence and grow their business by establishing links between various geographically dispersed locations via the internet.
Computer Network Terminology: Computer networks use many terms that are specific to the field of computer networking. Networking is the term used to describe the act of connecting computers together to share files or access resources. While the term networking can be used to describe the act of connecting computers without regard to the communication protocol used, the vast majority of computer networks use the TCP/IP protocol.
Why Build a Computer Network?
One of the main benefits of computer networks is the ability to share data and information. The more data that can be securely transferred between computers, the more useful the network. Computer networks allow us to connect distant areas with low or no internet access or fiber optic cable or telephone lines.
Internet connections can range from slow dial-up modem service to high-speed Ethernet networks with thousands of bits per second. Computer networks allow us to share data faster and more efficiently. When information is transferred between computers on a network, it is transferred as data, which is much faster than the communication between computers on an individual network.
Another benefit of computer networks is that they offer a more flexible environment for storage and distribution of information. With the ability to share data and computers, companies are able to centralize their data and easily move it between locations without having to spend money to duplicate the data or incur the overhead of printing and storing physical books.
Types of Computer Networks
There are many different types of computer networks available for use. These include:
Wireless Computer Networking: Wi-Fi networks are great for remote access, but they are not suitable for large-scale operations.
Wireline Computer Networking: Laptop computer networks work well when there is a lot of traffic between computer systems and users.
Hard Line Computer Networking: A hard line network transfers data across physical walls or other impervious barriers. It uses fiber optic cables to connect computers together.
Data-Link Communications
Data-link communications are through which data is transferred between computers over a wired or wireless connection. These connections might be connected to the Internet or to a local area network (LAN). Wireless Data-Link Communications: The most common form of data-link communication is called Wi-Fi, which is often used to connect computers to the Internet.
This connection uses radio waves to transfer data between the computer and the router. The downside of this form of connection is that it is not suitable for large-scale operations or when there is a lot of traffic between computers.
Wired Data-Link Communications: This connection uses physical cables to connect computers to the rest of the network. The most common form of wired data-link connection is the Ethernet, which is used to connect computers to the Internet.
Voice-Link Communications
Voice-link communications use different communication protocols to transfer data between computers. Computer networks with voice-link communications usually use voice calls to establish connectivity between computers. This connection is usually made using a Voice over IP protocol.
The downside of voice-link communications is that it is not suitable for large-scale operations or when there is a lot of traffic between computers. Wireline Voice-Link Communications: This connection uses physical cables to connect computers to the rest of the network. The most common form of wireline voice-link connection is the analog telephone line, which is often used for dial-up or dedicated data connections.
Security for Computer Networks
Computer networks have many benefits, but they also have some risks. If the computer network is notsecured, someone can break into your computer systems and steal your data or launch a remote-access malware attack to bring down the entire computer network.
To minimize the risk of a computer network getting hacked, it is a good idea to: Install and use software to secure network connections. Use strong passwords and keys for sensitive data. Make sure your computer hardware and software are up-to-date. Install software to help you stay aware of potential threats.
Conclusion
With growing use of the internet, computer networks are becoming more common in offices, homes, and businesses. A computer network is a set of interconnected computers that functions as one united server or group of computers acting as a single, unified system.
A computer network can be made up of individual computers working in conjunction with internet service providers (ISPs), data storage providers, and telecommunications companies. Or it can be a virtual organization made up of hundreds of separate networks linking computers in a central location such as a university, corporation or an office building.
Regardless of its scope, the end result is the same – this information technology (IT) infrastructure allows businesses to efficiently manage their digital presence and grow their business by establishing links between various geographically dispersed locations via the internet.