Computer Network Introduction

Computer Network is a set of devices connected through communication lines. Each device in network is called node. Nodes may be workstation, server, modem, router, switch etc. which are capable of generating or receiving data in network. Computer network has following components:-
  •          Computer system
  •          Network Integrated Card (NIC)
  •          Communication lines
  •          Peripherals

The boarder of any network is called network edge. Network edge generally consists of host or any other peripherals. Host is computer that may be client, server or peer.
The main purpose of network is sharing resources that may be either hardware or software. This creates the environment for sharing, transferring information in network.
A computer network must have the following properties:

ü  Reliable:
It means to resist with failure. If some link is down then there must be alternative link for communication.

ü Secure:
Network share valuable information that may be confidential. Thus network must be secure from outer attack. Security can be maintained through firewall, access list or other means.

ü Timeliness:
Network must be capable of transferring information in time.


A simple Computer Network:

                                                                         
Types of network:
1.       Local Area Network (LAN):
It is network owned by one organization, generally located in small geographical area. It generally has high data transfer rate and more secure. For example: Intranet.

2.       Wide Area Network (WAN):
It is network owned by different organization spread in large geographical area. It consists of heterogeneous networks that may be wired or wireless. Generally data transfer rate is lower than LAN and some security technique must be employed. For example: Internet.

3.       Metropolitan Area Network (MAN):
MAN spreads larger area than LAN and is owned by one company.

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