What is Computer Network?
A computer network is a system that eases data sharing and transmission between two or more computing units. These consist of cell phones, servers, and many types of computing devices. The devices could be of both types either connected by wires like fiber optics or be wireless. The modern world revolves around the internet, a vast worldwide web of networks connecting billions of devices.
Types of Computer Networks
A number of factors, including the transmission medium, network size, topology, and organizational goal, can be used to categorize computer networks. The types of networks are as follows:
- Nanoscale networks
- Personal area network (PAN)
- Local area network (LAN)
- Storage area network (SAN)
- Campus area network (CAN)
- Metropolitan area network (MAN)
- Wide area network (WAN)
- Wireless local area network (WLAN)
- Passive optical local area network (POLAN)
- Enterprise private network (EPN)
- Virtual private network (VPN)
- System-area network (SAN)
Based on organizational intent, networks can be classified as intranet, internet, extranet, darknet.
Topology in Computer network
The network's topology refers to how its components are connected to one another. Topology has two forms: physical topology and logical topology.
- Physical topology is the geometric representation of all the nodes in a network. There are six types of network topology which are bus topology, ring topology, star topology, tree topology, mesh topology and hybrid topology.
- Logical Topologies describe how data is sent from node to node on the LAN. The two logical topologies are:
- i) Broadcast topology
- ii) Sequential topology
Bridge in Computer Network
Many subnetworks are connected to form a single network by a bridge to make it easier to communicate with other computer networks that use the same protocol. The various types of bridges that are used include the following:
- Transparent Bridges
Transparent bridges are used to connect many network segments and use other bridges for routing. Widely in usage, these bridges operate transparently for all networks connected to the hosts.
- Source Routing Bridges
Source Routing Bridges determine the route between two hosts. They route a frame according to its target MAC address by using the source routing algorithm. This is done dispersedly at each location where end stations join within the bridging mechanism.
- Translational Bridges
Translational bridges are used to transform one type of networking system to another. They can connect many types of networks, such as Ethernet and token ring networks.
Protocol in Computer Network
A network protocol refers to an established set of guidelines that regulate data transfer between different networked devices. It allows devices that are connected to communicate with one other in spite of structural and internal variances.
- Communication Protocols:
In computer networks, data flow and transmission are based on communication protocols. The file formats and guidelines that are used to transport data are formally specified by these protocols. Synchronization, authentication, error detection, grammar, and semantics are all handled by these protocols.
- Routing Protocol:
Routing protocols are crucial sets of rules and algorithms that allow routers and other network devices to select the optimal paths for data packets as they move through a network.
- Security Protocols:
Network communication must include security procedures that protect data confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity.
- Management Protocol
These protocols initiate the procedures and policies that keep the computer network maintained and managed.
Main Components of a Computer Network
- Network Devices
Network devices or nodes are computing devices that need to be linked in the network. Some network devices include computers, mobiles and other consumer devices, servers, routers, switches, gateways.
- Links
Links are the transmission media which can be of two types wired and wireless.
- Communication protocols
A communication protocol is a set of rules followed by all nodes connected in the information transfer.
- Network Defense
When unusual amounts of data are generated, moved and processed across networks, it ensures that security should exist.
Conclusion
Computer networks are the foundation of contemporary communication and information exchange, facilitating cross-border economic operations as well as interpersonal relationships. Having the best knowledge of Computer Networks and evaluating job offers are crucial steps to ensure your long-term satisfaction. If you still want to know more about the concept of Computer Networks, don’t hesitate to explore through demo classes, online videos and notes. However, with SSSi Online Learning Classes, you can get your own personal guide who can help you excel and build your confidence, which will help you choose the right career option. With our tutor’s approach, you can embark on fulfilling and best classes for future help.
