What Is A Computer Network ?
A computer network is a connection established between two or more computer systems. The connection enables systems to communicate with one another. Let us take an example here. If the compute network has ten connected computers, computer one can communicate with computer ten on the network, even though they physically located apart. |
Communication within the network is governed by network protocol. All; system have to follow the same protocol for communication purposes. Network protocol is a set of rules that defines the manner in which data and information should be sent and receive between system connected in the network. The protocol followed by the largest computer network -- the internet is TCP/IP. This is a two part protocol, in which TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) specifies the communication aspect between system, while and IP (Internet Protocol), determines the addressing format for packets and how they are to be routed to their destinations.
Communication is carried out through the use of network interface cards. These cards are plugged into the backside of the system and are sued to send and receive messages. In addition to communication, computer connected through a network can also share resources such as files, printers, scanners and so on. Every computer network has its own characteristics. Comparisons between networks are based on features such as size, security, protocol and access.
Computer network can be formed in various topologies such as Star, Bus, and Mesh. There are many different types of computer networks and these include LAN and WAN.
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