What is a computer network?

What is a computer network?

A computer network refers to computing devices that are connected to each other and can exchange data and share resources with each other. These network devices use a system of rules, known as a communications protocol, to transmit information via physical or wireless technology.

How does a computer network work?

Nodes and links are the basic building blocks in computer networks. A network node can be data communications equipment (DCE) such as a modem, hub or switch, or data terminal equipment (DTE) such as two or more computers and a printer. A link is a delivery medium that connects two nodes. Links can be physical, such as cables fiber optics, or free space used by wireless networks.

 

In a working computer network, nodes will follow a set of rules or protocols that determine how to send and receive electronic data over the link. Computer network architecture determines the design of these physical and logical components. Computer network architecture provides specifications for the network's physical components, functional organization, protocols, and procedures.

What is the use of a computer network?

Computer networks were first created in the late 1950s for use in the military and defense departments. Initially, computer networks were used to transmit data over telephone lines and had limited scientific and commercial applications. With the presence of internet technology, computer networks have become something that corporations really need.

 

Modern networking solutions provide more than just connectivity. Network solutions have become critical to digital transformation and business success today. Underlying network capabilities have become more programmable, automated, and secure.

 

Modern computer networks are capable of:

 

Operate virtually

The underlying physical network infrastructure can be logically partitioned to create multiple “overlay” networks. In an overlay computer network, nodes are linked virtually, and data can be transmitted to each other over multiple physical paths. For example, many corporate networks are overlaid on the internet.

 

Integrate at scale

Modern network services connect physically distributed computer networks. This service can optimize network functions through automation and monitoring to create large-scale networks with high performance. Network services can be scaled up or down based on demand.

 

Respond quickly to changing conditions

Many computer networks work determined by software. Traffic can be routed and controlled centrally using digital interfaces. This computer network supports virtual traffic management.

 

Provide data security

All network solutions come with built-in security features such as encryption and access control. Third-party solutions such as antivirus software, firewalls, and antimalware can be integrated to make the network more secure.

 

What are the types of computer network architecture?

Computer network designs are classified according to two general categories:

 

1. Client-server architecture

In this type of computer network, nodes can be servers or clients. Server nodes provide resources such as memory, processing power, or data to client nodes. Server nodes can also manage client node behavior. Clients can communicate with each other, but cannot share resources. For example, some computer devices on a corporate network store data and configuration settings. This device is a server in the network. Clients can access this data by making requests to the server machine.

 

2. Peer-to-peer architecture

In a peer-to-peer (P2P) architecture, connected computers have equal standing and privileges. There is no central server to coordinate. Each device in a computer network can act as either a client or server. Each peer can share some of its resources, such as memory and processing power, with the entire computer network. For example, some companies use P2P architecture to host memory-hungry applications, such as 3-D graphics rendering, across multiple digital devices.

 

What is network topology?

The arrangement of nodes and links is referred to as network topology. Nodes can be configured in various ways to achieve different results. Several types of network topology include:

 

Bus topology

Each node is linked to only one other node. Data transmission in a network connection occurs in one direction.

 

Ring topology (ring)

Each node is linked to two other nodes, thus forming a ring. Data can flow in both directions. However, a single node failure can bring down the entire network.

 

Star topology

The central server node is linked to multiple client network devices. This topology has better performance because data does not flow through each node. This topology is also more reliable.

Mesh topology

Each node is connected to many other nodes. In a full mesh topology, each node is connected to all other nodes in the network.

 

What are the types of corporate computer networks?

Based on the size and needs of the organization, there are three general types of corporate private networks:

 

Local area network (LAN)

LAN is an interconnected system, which is limited in size and geography. In general, a LAN connects computers and devices in one office or building. These networks are used by small companies or test networks for small-scale prototyping.

 

Wide area network (WAN)

Corporate networks that span buildings, cities, and even countries are referred to as wide area networks (WANs). Local area networks are used to transmit data at higher speeds over short distances, while WANs are used for secure and reliable long-distance communications.

 

SD-WAN or software-defined WAN is a WAN architecture controlled by software technology. SD-WAN offers more flexible and reliable connectivity services, which can be controlled at the application level without compromising security and quality of service.

 

Service provider network

Service provider networks allow customers to lease network capacity and functionality from providers. Network service providers may include telecommunications companies, data operators, wireless communications providers, internet service providers, and cable television operators that offer high-speed internet access.

 

Cloud network

Conceptually, a cloud network is similar to a WAN whose infrastructure is provided with cloud-based services. Some or all of an organization's network capabilities and resources are hosted in a public or private cloud platform and provisioned on demand. These network resources can include virtual routers, firewalls, bandwidth, and network management software along with other required tools and functions.

 

Today, businesses use cloud networks to accelerate time to market (TTM), increase scale, and manage costs effectively. The cloud networking model has become the standard approach to building and delivering applications for the modern corporation.