Introduction of Computer Network | Types of Network

 A Network is a group of computers and devices connected together. In network device also called Node. A networked environment enables sharing of resources such as files, printers, programs storage disks etc. However, in the present day modern networking practices, connectivity can be provided to different types of portable devices such as Tablets, PCs, Notebooks, PDAs, Digital Cameras, Portable MP3 players, Smartphones, Home entertainment devices such as IP, TVs, Video players/recorders, Stereos, Radios, and also monitoring or sensor devices.

COMPUTER NETWORKS

The term network means an interconnected system. The system of roads and railways connecting different cities with each other and the telephone system that you use daily are examples of networks. Similar networks are used in the world of computers too. A computer network is an interconnected system of two enables the computer to communicate with each other and provides users the access to more computers which shared resources. 

A computer based network is broadly divided into three categories. Each network type possesses different applicability and functionality, discussed in detail in this section.

Local Area Network (LAN)

The Local Area Network is a common network domain that connects a group of computer systems and network devices in a smaller range of areas, usually within a building, either through Fast Ethernet or Gigabit Ethernet.

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

The MAN covers a larger range of networks that allows connectivity between two or more different buildings within an area or a city.

Wide Area Network (WAN)

WAN is a method of communication between two or more different geographical locations through a service provider (ISP) with high speed technology WAN connects multiple LANs through an established network (Internet) which relatively expensive in cost.

Need of a Computer Network

For most businesses to bae successful, there is a need for continuous and prompt flow of information. For example, in an organization, orders from the sales department are passed to the shipping department, the accounts department collects statistics and passé them to the management, and so on.

Any industry that wants to be successful in this competitive world needs information to E sent and delivered both constantly and on time. Computer networks help in communication this information swiftly and effectively.

Before the advent of networks, people had to personally move the information, whether was on paper, over the phone, on the floppy disk, or on a magnetic tape. However, aft the advent of computer networks, a computer connected over a network facilitates easier and faster exchange of information. Networks, apart from moving information, also helpful in sharing of resources such as printers and modems, and allowing the USA of the hardware resources in a more effective way.