Networking

It feels like there are networks everywhere, isn’t it? There isn't much you can do with data that doesn't include a network. Computer networks enable us to exchange information and resources, much like the human networks of which we are all a part.

Networks not only help businesses and individuals save money, but they also assist generate revenue. A computer network is a collection of computers that are spread out geographically yet are linked together to allow for the meaningful transmission and exchange of data.

Purpose of Networking

Networking allows us to get the knowledge we require to advance our profession or business and share our activities and interests with others. Additionally, networking is becoming more and more vital for achieving both personal and professional goals. For instance, our personal network consists of our friends, family, and acquaintances.

One of our most valuable sources of information for networking is provided by today's information technology.

A computer network is made up of a number of connected computers, printers, and other devices that can interact with one another. An illustration of a network at a school might be a LAN, or local area network, which links computers together.

Computer Network

Type of Networks

A computer network is a collection of connected computers that allows one computer to talk with another and share resources, data, and software. The size of a computer network can be used to classify it. Most computer networks consist of 3 type:

• LAN (Local Area Network)

• MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)

• WAN (Wide Area Network)

Types of Network

LAN (Local Area Network)

• A local area network (LAN) is used to connect two or more personal computers using a communication means like coaxial cable or twisted pair.

• It is less expensive since hubs, network adapters, and ethernet cables were used in its construction.

• In a local area network, data is exchanged at an incredibly quick rate.

• Greater security is provided by local area networks.

Advantages

• It allows sharing of software and hardware resources.

• Network loss might not affect a single workstation.

• System and component evolution is conceivable.

• Support for hardware and software in diverse forms.

• Access to other LANs and WANs

• Private possession.

• Secure transfers performed at rapid speeds and with little mistake.

Disadvantages

• Equipment and assistance might be expensive.

• Hardware may not function together in some cases.

• Power: A reliable LAN must always be running.

• A network frequently uses a single internet connection, which might slow down individual computers if they are all running at once.

• Limited area is covered.

LAN

WAN (Wide Area Network)

• A wide area network is a communication system. Simply said, a wide area network is a network of networks or a LAN of LANs. WAN links LANs that may be on different sides of a building, on different continents, or even on different planets. 

• WANs are distinguished by the longest distances and the slowest data transmission speeds. Computers linked to WANs frequently connect over open networks, such as the telephone network. 

• The Internet is the current biggest WAN.

Benefits of WAN 

• Long-distance or rural firms may join on one network, which covers a very big geographic region.

• WAN has an extremely fast speed.

Drawbacks of WAN

• The cost of the network increases with network size.

• The price of technology and equipment is quite high.

WAN

MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)

MAN is a data network created for a city or residence. MAN’s networks cover a wider geographic region than LANs but less than WANs in terms of geographic breadth. MAN's are typically distinguished by their extremely fast connections across cable or digital media.

Benefits of MAN

• It offers more security than WAN.

• Greater than LAN in size

• It facilitates the economical sharing of shared resources like printers and other things.

• It facilitates the quick LAN interfacing of users. This is because links are simple to implement.

Drawbacks of MAN

• For a MAN connection from one location to another, more cable is needed.

• When compared to LAN, the data rate is minimal.

• Making a system secure against hackers is challenging.

• Managing the extensive network is challenging.

MAN

Points to Remember   

• Tracking files and folders allows you to gather all of your key papers in one location.

• Editing, keeping, and sharing your work all depend on saving a file.

• Since a lot of data builds up on your hard disc over time, removing outdated files helps make room for more items you might desire.

• The Recycle Bin serves as a "holding area" for objects that have been removed, such files and folders.

Learning by Doing

1. Local area networks (LAN) are more expensive. (True/False) 

2. _______ is the current biggest WAN. (Fill in the blank).

Sample Questions

1. What is the LAN acronym?

1. Local Area Network

2. Local Access Network

3. Line And Networking

4. Line-less Networking

Ans: Correct Choice- (A)

Two or more personal computers can be connected through a local area network (LAN).

2. MAN networks cover a larger geographic region than LAN, spanning whole cities to single-story building blocks.

1. True

2. False

Ans: Correct Option:(A)

A MAN is more suited than a LAN for covering greater geographic areas, such as entire cities or several building blocks. Its geographic range is in the middle between a WAN and a LAN. MANs link LANs to larger networks, such as the Internet.

Summary 

In this chapter, you were introduced to the concept of networking, purpose and types of networking. A computer network is a collection of computers that are spread out geographically yet are linked together to allow for the meaningful transmission and exchange of data. Computer networks enable us to exchange information and resources, much like the human networks of which we are all a part.