Introduction to Computer Networks

Introduction
The network can be defined as the set of groups or organizations where different ideas and
information can be shared. In the context of computers, a computer network can be defined as
the set of groups of multiple computers connect to share data, files, hardware, application,
information, and many other purposes. For the communication or sharing of these data,
computers should be connected to a network. For the connection of the computer’s different
types of wire or wireless devices are used. To understand the network among the computers
we need to know networking principles. Those main principles help user to deliver their ideas
and experience about the computer network with others. Along with the principles, a network
must follow some network protocols. Therefore, Network protocols are the set of policies and
plans, which contains some formats and rules for making possible communication between
computers over a network. Similarly, Networking devices are also required, Networking devices
are those physical devices, which are required communication and interaction between
hardware on a computer network. These networking devices connect various networks using
different types of networking protocols. Similarly, the Network topology is the process of
arranging elements present in a communication network that can be depicted physically or
logically.
Fig no.1: computer network
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 Advantage of a computer network:
 It helps to share an internet connection. Using a home network or office, multiple devices
can be connected to access the internet without having to pay for an ISP for multiple
accounts.
 Devices like network printers, scanners, webcams, and CD burners can be shared.
 Files like audio, photos, videos, text can be shared.
 Multiple online and popular games can be played with different people from different
places at the same time.
 Storage capacity also can be increased.
Having the better advantage of computer networks there is some limitation of computer
networks.
 Limitations of computer network
 The major drawback of computer networks is security issues. If a computer is on a
network, computer hackers can get unauthorized access by using different tools.
 The rapid spread of computer viruses. Viruses get spread on a network easily because of
the interconnection of the workstation. Viruses make our computer slow, can also delete
important files.
 Network faults can cause loss of data.
 Purchasing the network cabling and file servers can be expensive.
 Managing a large network is complicated, requires training and a network manager
usually needs to be employed.
These are the advantages and disadvantages of computer networks. As we know there are
different types of computer networks. So, the different types of computer networks there use,
advantages, and disadvantages are now discussed below.
Types of computer networks are:
i. PAN (Personal Area Network)
ii. LAN (local area network)
iii. MAN (metropolitan area network)
iv. WAN (wide area network)
v. WLAN (wireless local area network)
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