What is a
Computer Network?
Before
moving forward with the article and learning more about the types of computer
networks, it is important for candidates to understand what is a network and
how it affects the functioning of one or more computers connected with each
other.
Definition
– A
group of computers which are connected to each other and follow similar usage
protocols for the purpose of sharing information and having communications
provided by the networking nodes is called a Computer Network.
A
network may be small where it may include just one system or maybe as large as
what one may want. The nodes may further be classified into various types.
These include:
- Personal Computers
- Servers
- Networking Hardware
- General Hosts
Networking
can be classified into three types:
- Types of Computer Networks
- Topology
- Interpreters
Network Devices
Discussed below are a
few important network devices from the exam point of view:
- Network Repeater
– Used
to generate incoming electrical, wireless or optical signals
- Network Hub – It is a
small network device. It joins multiple computers together to form a
single network segment. On this segment, all computers can interact with
each other
- Network Switch – It is a
small hardware device which joins multiple computers together with a single
LAN
- Network Router – This
device interfaces in multiple networks whose task is to copy packages from
one network to another. It provides connectivity inside enterprises,
between Enterprises and the Internet and within an ISP
- Network Bridge – It reads
the outermost section of the data packet to tell where the message is
going. It reduces the traffic on other network segments.
- Modem – This
device converts digital signals into analog signals. It is always placed
between a telephone and a computer system
