What is Computer Networking?

Computer networking is the mutual connection between a computer and other devices in the network. Its main purpose is to improve communication and data security. It also gives virtual access to the network’s data. Hardware and software are used to connect computers in the network. It is most important and needed in today’s era.

The structure of a network decides how efficiently communication will occur. This article provides complete knowledge of computer networking, its importance, types, applications, purpose, architecture, advantages, and disadvantages. You will also learn some interesting facts that will surprise you.

Purpose of Computer Networking

Computer networks connect many devices and help send, receive, and manage data. They also ensure the network’s security, flexibility, and reliability. They manage system performance checks and diagnose any issues quickly. It gives virtual access, communication, and collaboration, which is important for modern work. It provides a strong framework that is necessary for internet connectivity.

Importance of Computer Networking

Computer networking is important nowadays for modern needs. There are different reasons, which are explained below.

1. It is the best way of communication.
2. It helps with data sharing, such as sending, receiving, and storing.
3. It gives reliable security.
4. It improves the storage efficiency.
5. The network supports the communication system.
6. Help in file sharing.
7. It plays a crucial role in the development of IT.
8. It gives the remote access to work and communication.
9. Large companies can store and manage their data with networking. 
10. It serves connections to internet connectivity.
11. It connects any single person to worldwide resources and services.

Examples of Computer Networking

There are different examples of computer networking. All examples are based on scale, purpose, and functionality. 

1. LAN: Local area networks are used for networking in small homes or offices.
2. MAN: Metropolitan Area Networks used for large areas like cities. It is developed with the different LANs. Wi-Fi and mobile internet data are examples of MAN.
3. WAN: A Wide Area Network that connects different countries and comprises millions of LANs: The Internet is the best example of a WAN.
4. VPN: A Virtual Private Network gives remote access to private networks on the internet.
5. PAN: A Personal Area Network allows one to connect with multiple devices, such as printers and scanners.

Types of Computer Networking

There are different types of computer networks. It is categorized based on the number of devices, types of operating systems, network topology, transitional medium used, and the distance between devices. All types are explained below:

1. LAN: connects small area networks such as buildings and office networks.
2. MAN: Metropolitan Area Network joins computer resources in a large geographical area network. Its common example is the city network area.
3. WANs: WANs interconnect multiple LANs and cover large area networks, such as big cities, states, and countries.
4. SAN: Storage Area Network is reliable for connecting high-performance data storage machines and resources.
5. PAN: A Personal Area Network is used by one person to connect many devices, like printers and scanners.
6. WLANs: This group of colocated devices uses radio transmission instead of wired connections.
7. CAN: A Campus Area Network is a group of interconnected LANs utilized by large organizations, such as universities and the government.
8. VPN: Virtual Private Network gives remote access to the private network on the internet.
9. PONs: A Passive Optical Network is a fiber network that gives users wideband access.
10. SPN: Service Provider Networks give the lease network to users. Its common examples are data carriers and cable television providers.
11. Cloud Network: It is a type of Wide Area Network (WAN), but its structure is on the advanced level. A typical example is Amazon web services.

Components of Computer Network

The components of a computer network are vital because they are used to install and run software. The NIC, Switch, Cable, connectors, Hub, router, and Modem are some of the main elements. Their application is described below.

1. NIC
   1. A Network Interface Card is a computer’s hardware component. 
   2. It connects one computer to another computer. 
   3. It can support a transfer rate of 10,100 to 1000 Mb/s.
   4. There are two types of NIC. The first is Wired NIC, and the second is Wireless NIC.
2. Switch
   1. The switch is a hardware component that interconnects many devices on a network. 
   2. The switch decides whether the data will transfer or not.
   3. It gives a direct connection between the source and the destination.
   4. It increases the speed of the network.

3. Connector and Cabling
   1. Connector and Cabling are the physical components. 
   2. Its common examples are Fiber optics and Ethernet cables.
   3. It helps in data transmission.
4. Firewall
   1. A firewall is a security device that controls transmitting data.
   2. It secures the cyber attack.
   3. It saves from viruses in the data.
5. Route
   1. Route connects the different networks such as LANs, MANs, and WANs.
   2. It makes sure that the data has reached the right target.
   3. It is responsible for sending data to the right target.
6. Modem
   1. It helps different devices communicate across different communication lines.
   2. It changes the amplitude of the signals so that data are not hacked.
   3. It gives the best interface structure so that communication becomes more effective.

Uses of Computer Network

There are multiple uses of computer networks. Some of them are explained below.

1. Computer Networks help in data sharing.
2. It helps in data storage.
3. It gives access to the user for internet browsing.
4. It helps in professional communication with email for sending and receiving messages.
5. The network allows devices to share all resources like printers, scanners, and storage drives.
6. Any network user can access network resources from any place in the world.
7. The network helps and encourages teamwork through data sharing.

Advantages of Computer Network

There are multiple advantages of computer networking. Some of them are explained below:

1. Computer networking helps in communication and availability.
2. It supports data saving and secure.
3. Network boosts storage capacity.
4. It assists in improving efficiency and decreasing distractions.
5. It helps manage data, such as saving, storing, backup recovery, and security from cyber attacks.

Disadvantages of Computer Networking

1. Computer networks become expensive at the beginning of setup, like purchasing components.
2.  The network takes proper care and monitoring; then it performs smoothly.
3. A whole setup is disturbed when any component fails to operate.
4. It is difficult to manage when a network contains a big network and needs advanced technical knowledge.
5. The network speed slows when multiple active users need more advanced networking.

What is a Computer Network Architect?

Computer network architects are responsible for the complete network’s structure and data management. It is the broad niche in networking, particularly educational paths and certifications. It decides how fast the network will perform and how many users can use it simultaneously. 

Test Network Speed Between Two Computers:

Test network speed between two computers is important in the network. The main purpose is to check the network’s data sending and receiving rate. Multiple tools are in the market to test network speed between two computers. These tools give you the estimations of network speed.

Conclusion:

Computer networking is a collection of interconnected computers. When computer networks are established, communication becomes easy. All devices are connected through electronic elements called nodes or wireless media. There are many types of computer networking, and each type of network can be used according to the requirement. Computer networking has multiple advantages and disadvantages, as well as valuable uses. A computer network is built on multiple components. Computer networking is a legitimate business. Computer networking is a legitimate business. Computer networking is very easy. Now, it has become the backbone of information technology.

FAQs About the Computer Network

In this section, you will learn frequently asked questions related to the computer network. You can also ask any further questions in the comment section.

What is a Computer Network Topology?

Network topology is the logical and physical structure of elements like nodes and connections in the network. It plays a vital role in network functionality, and selecting the right topology will boost network performance.

What is a Computer Networking Software?

Networking software is the fundamental element in any network. It helps administrators deploy, manage, control, and check performance. It is the software component where you can check all network performance.

What is a Packet in Computer Networking?

In computer networking, a packet is a tiny piece of a large message. When data is sent from one computer to another, it splits into small pieces. Every small piece is called a packet. It contains important information like sender and receiver addresses.

What is a Port in Computer Networking?

A port in a computer network is the virtual power where the connection starts and ends. It checks the computer operating system in the network and helps the computer determine where data could find the required information. A specific number recognizes every port.

What is Computer Networking and Telecommunications?

Computer networking is the mutual connection between computers and other devices in the network. It helps the system communicate, such as data sharing, storing, and processing required information in the network, while telecommunication increases communication over a large distance. Both computer networking and telecommunications are important for any computer networking and advanced-level setup.

What do You Mean by Computer Networking?

Computer networking is a collection of interconnected computers. When computer networks are established, communication becomes easy. All devices are connected through electronic elements called nodes or wireless media. Hardware and software are used to connect computers in the network. The strategy of a network decides how efficiently communication will occur. 

What is Network Short Answer?

A network is a group of interconnected computers and devices that improve network performance. Each device is connected to an element called a node, which is known by a unique numerical number.