What is
computer network?:
A computer
network is a group of computer systems and other computing hardware devices
that are linked together through communication channels to facilitate
communication and resource-sharing among a wide range of users.
A network
consists of two or more computers that are linked in order to share resources
(such as printers and CDs), exchange files, or allow electronic communications.
The computers on a network may be linked through cables, telephone lines, radio
waves, satellites.
Types of
Computer Networks
The four basic
types of network are:
1.
Local Area Networking (LAN)
2.
Metropolitan Area Networks(MAN)
3.
Wide Area Networks (WAN)
LOCAL AREA
NETWORK (LAN)
Local Area
Network LAN – These types of computer networks connect network devices
over a relatively short distance, use 100 meter of wire as a maximum distance
from one point to another point, the LAN may also span over a group of nearby
buildings. Local Area Networking is used primarily in small areas such as schools,
hospitals and office buildings. Local Area Networking, is one of the older
types of networks. TCP/IP is used as the method of communication between
computers in Local Area Networking.
Local Area
Networking Configuration can consist of :
·
A file server – stores all the software that
controls the network, as well as the software that can be shared by the
computers.
·
A workstation – computers connected to the
file server (Mac or PCs). These are less powerful than the file server.
·
Cables – used to connect the network
interface card in each computer.
METROPOLITAN
AREA NETWORKS (MAN):
Metropolitan
Area Networks are not commonly used these days, they are used to create
communication between systems in an entire city. Hence a Metropolitan Area
Network area falls between the sizes Local Area Networks, and Wide Area
Networks. This is a network that spans over a physical
area like a city that is smaller than a WAN but larger than a LAN.
WIDE AREA
NETWORKS (WAN):
Wide Area
Network WAN – As the name suggests, a WAN spans over a large physical distance.
It may be regarded as a collection of LANs dispersed over a geographical area. The internet is a very good example of a WAN.
LANs are connected to a WAN through a device referred to as a router.
Most WANs exist
under distributed or collective ownership and management and unlike the LANs
ADVANTAGES OF
NETWORK:
1. Speed – Sharing and transferring files within the
network are very rapid. Thus saving time, while maintaining the truth of the
files.
2.
Cost – Individually licensed copies of many popular software
programs can be costly. So that the networkable versions are available at
considerable saving. Shared programs, on a network allows for easier upgrading
of the program on one single file server, instead of upgrading individual
workstations.
3.
Recourse Sharing – Share printers, fax machines and others.
4.
Centralized Software Management. – Software can be loaded on one computer
(the file server) eliminating that need to spend time and energy installing
updates and tracking files on independent computer throughout the building.
5.
Electronic Mail. Communication world wide.
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