Computer networking is the unseen force driving our interconnected world in the fast-paced digital age, when information travels at the speed of light. It serves as the basis for many current communication functions, such as email exchange, streaming HD videos, and holding virtual meetings. In this article, we’ll get into the basics of computer networking, examine important terminologies, understand various types, and explore their uses and advantages.
Fig 1: Computer Networking
What is Computer Networking?
A computer network is a system that links multiple standalone computers together to exchange resources and data. Communication between users is made easier by the integration of computers and other technologies.
Any grouping of two or more interconnected computer systems is called a computer network. Wireless or cable-based media can be used to create a network connection. Computers and tools are connected to any network using hardware and software.
A network of computers is made up of different types of nodes. Nodes in a computer network can include servers, networking devices, personal computers, and other types of hosts, whether they are used for specific purposes or not. The methods for identifying them are host names and network addresses.
How do Computer Networks Operate?
Computer networks use links and nodes to function. A network node can be described as either data terminal equipment, such as connecting two or more computers, or equipment for data communication, such as a modem, router, etc.
In such type of networks, a link is any wire, cable, or open area used for wireless networks. In brief, computer networks work as protocols or rules that facilitate sending and receiving data via the links necessary for network communication. Every device has an IP address, which helps in device identification.
Basic Computer Network Terminologies
Network:
An interconnected group of computers and other devices that facilitates data sharing and communication is called a network.
Nodes:
Devices with a network connection are known as nodes. These can consist of many pieces of equipment, such as switches, routers, printers, computers, servers, and more.
Protocol:
A protocol is a collection of guidelines and conventions that control the flow of data over a network. Protocols include things like HTTP, FTP, and TCP/IP.
Topology:
The logical and physical configuration of nodes within a network is referred to as its topology. The bus, star, ring, mesh, and tree network topologies are among the most frequently used ones.
Service Provider Networks:
These networks permit users to lease network functionality and capacity from the provider. Wireless communications, data carriers, and other networks are examples of service provider networks.
IP address:
Each device connected to a network is given an IP address, which is a special numerical identification. Device identification and communication are accomplished through the use of IP addresses.
DNS:
A system called the Domain Name System (DNS) is used to convert domain names that can be read by humans, such as http://www.google.com, into IP addresses that are understandable by computers.
Firewall:
To monitor and manage both inbound and outgoing network traffic, a firewall is a security tool. Networks are shielded by firewalls from security risks and illegal access.
Types of Computer Networks
The following are the several categories of computer networks:
1. Personal Area Network (PAN)
2. Local Area Network (LAN)
3. Campus Area Network (CAN)
4. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
5. Wide Area Network (WAN)
6. Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
7. Virtual Private Network (VPN)
8. Home Area Network (HAN)
1. Personal Area Network (PAN):
Fig 2: Personal Area Network (PAN)
- PANs are the most fundamental kind of computer network. This network is limited to one user; that is, all computer-to-computer communication takes place within that user’s workspace.
- It provides a network range of 1 to 100 meters for communication between a person and a device. Its transmission speed is extremely fast, and it is inexpensive and easy to maintain.
- The technology used in this includes Bluetooth, IrDA, and Zigbee.
- PAN examples include USB, PDA, printer, phone, tablet, and computer.
2. Local Area Network (LAN):
Fig 3: Local Area Network (LAN)
- The most commonly used type of network is LAN. A local area network (LAN) is a type of computer network that links computers within a specific area, or locally, using a shared communication channel. A local area network (LAN) consists of two or more computers connected to a server.
- Ethernet and Wi-Fi are the two key technologies used in this network. Its transmission speed is quite high, its range is up to 2 km, and it is inexpensive, easy to maintain, and requires little effort.
- Networking at a house, school, library, lab, college, business, etc. is an example of a local area network (LAN).
3. Campus Area Network (CAN):
Fig 4: Campus Area Network (CAN)
- Though smaller than a MAN, CAN is larger than a LAN. Usually, institutions like schools and colleges employ this kind of computer network. This network spans multiple buildings on the campus, giving it a restricted geographic coverage area.
- The primary technology used by CAN is Ethernet, which has a 1–5 km range. It has a very high transmission speed and a moderate cost for maintenance.
- Networks covering schools, universities, buildings, etc. are examples of CAN.
4. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN):
Fig 5: Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
- A MAN is not as big as a WAN, but it is larger than a LAN. This kind of computer network establishes a shared communication path between computers spread over a city, town, or metropolitan area.
- The technologies utilized by this network mostly range from 5 to 50 kilometers and include FDDI, CDDI, and ATM. It transmits data at an average pace. It is expensive and requires a lot of maintenance.
5. Wide Area Network (WAN):
Fig 6: Wide Area Network (WAN)
- A wide area network, or WAN, is a kind of computer network that uses a common communication channel to link computers over great distances. It covers a wide range of locales, rather than being limited to just one.
- A collection of local area networks that connect over a distance of more than 50 kilometers is also referred to as a WAN. Here, dial-up and leased-line technology are used. It has an extremely slow transmission speed, high maintenance costs, and expensive expenses.
- The Internet is the most widely used example of a wide area network (WAN).
6. Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN):
Fig 7: Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN)
- WLAN is a kind of network that uses wireless technologies, such as Wi-Fi, to function as a local area network. Instead of using physical cables like in a LAN, this network enables wireless communication between devices.
- Wi-Fi is the most widely used example of a WLAN.
7. Virtual Private Network (VPN):
Fig 8: Virtual Private Network (VPN)
- A virtual private network, or VPN, is a kind of computer network that allows users to transmit and receive data givng an impression that they are a part of a Private Network even when they aren’t.
- Users have remote access to a private network via a virtual point-to-point connection.
- VPN functions as a medium that provides you with a secure network connection, shielding you from harmful sources.
- Home Area Network (HAN):
Fig 9: Home Area Network (HAN)
- There may be more than one computer in many of the homes. You can setup a network that resembles the local area network (LAN) to connect those PCs and other peripheral devices.
- Home area networks (HANs) are the kind of networks that let users link several PCs and other digital devices in their homes.
- Within the network, HAN promotes the exchange of files, programs, and resources. It supports both wireless and wired communication.
Comparing Various Computer Networks
The below table shows the comparison between different types of computer networks:
Fig 10: Comparing various computer networks
Applications and Uses of Computer Networks
- Having conversations via instant chat, video, email, etc.
- Transferring files.
- Sharing hardware, like scanners and printers.
- Facilitating information access and maintenance for users of networks.
- Sharing operating systems and software among distant systems.
Benefits of Networking Computers
The following are some of the key benefits of computer networks:
● Central Data Storage: It is a database which keeps all files that is accessible to all users without difficulty.
● Networking: We can connect Multiple computers to a single connection by routing it through different paths.
● File Sharing: We can transfer Data and files across several devices, facilitating communication inside the company.
● Security through Authorization: Computer networking offers an extra layer of security and data protection for the system.
The Drawbacks of Computer Networks
The following are some of the primary drawbacks of computer networks:
● Malware and Viruses: A virus is software that can alter other programs to infect them. Malware and viruses can ruin an entire network.
● Exorbitant Setup Costs: Since there are numerous wires and cables needed in addition to the device, computer networking setup is costly at first.
● Loss of Information: Data loss may occur in the event of a system failure.
● Network Management: To properly use a network, a person must have training, as it can be somewhat difficult.
The unseen superpower that keeps our digital world spinning is computer networking. It makes possible for you to learn new things online, have online conversations with friends, and binge-watch your favorite shows. Knowing this superhero makes it easier for us to recognize the incredible web of connectivity that binds us all together in the digital age.
Read Also: Network Hub – What is it | Type | Working | HUB vs Switch | Uses VPN (Virtual Private Network) – How it Works, Best VPNs, Are VPNs Legal
