ANU/P-3/ ICT/ Unit-3

R.N.MANDAL

COMPUTER FUNDAMENTALS AND APPLICATION:

FUNDAMENTALS OF COMPUTER

A computer is an electronic machine that takes input from the user, processes the given input
and generates output in the form of useful information. A computer accepts in different forms
such as data, programs and user reply. Data refer to the raw details that need to be processed
to generate some useful information. Programs refer to the set of instructions that can be
executed by the computer in sequential or non sequential manner. User reply is the input
provided by the user in response to a question asked by the computer. The main task of a
computer system is to process the given input of any type in an efficient manner. Therefore,
computer is also known as data processing unit, data processor and data processing
system.

A computer includes various devices that function as an integrated system to perform several
tasks described above. These devices are:-

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU): It is the processor of the computer that is

responsible for controlling and executing instructions in the computer. It is considered
as the most significant component of the computer. It is the “brain” of the computer.
2. Monitor: It is a screen, which displays information in visual form, after
receiving the video signals from the computer.
3. Keyboard and Mouse: These are the devices, which are used by the computer,
for receiving input from the computer.

FUNCTION (FEATURES) OF COMPUTER:

Various functions performed by the computer are briefly described as below:

Accepting data (Input): The first task to be performed by a computer is to accept data from
the user with the help of input devices such as mouse and key board. Mouse is used to enter
the data through point and click operation while key board is used to enter the character data
by typing the various keys.

Processing the data (Process). The data aids processed with the help of specific instructions
known as programs. The manipulation of data is handled by the CPU. CPU is considered as
the brain of the computer because it controls the execution of various instructions. The raw
data entered by the user through input devices is processed by the CPU to generate
meaningful information.

Storing the data (Storing): The data is stored in the main memory of a computer in its
processed form. The various external storage devices such as -hard disk and magnetic disk-
can be used for storing the processed data so that it can be fetched later.

Delivering the output (Output): The processed data is delivered as useful information to the
user with help of output devices such as printer and monitor.

Basic characteristics of Computer:

The unique capabilities and characteristics of a computer have made it very popular among
its various users, including engineers, managers, accountants, teachers, students etc. The
characteristics and capabilities of a modern digital computer include, among other:

1. Speed: - A computer is a fast electronic device that can solve large and complex
problems in few seconds. The speed of computer generally depends upon its hard ware
configuration.

2. Storage capacity: A computer can store huge amount of data in its different storage
components in many different formats. The storage area of a computer system is
generally divided in to two categories, main memory and secondary storage.

3. Accuracy: A computer carries out calculations with great accuracy. The accuracy
achieved by a computer depends upon its hard ware configuration and the instructions.

4. Reliability: A computer produces results with no error. Most of the errors generated in
the computer are human errors that are created by the user itself. Therefore, they are very
trustworthy machine.

5. Versatility: Computers are versatile machines. They can perform many different tasks
and can be used for many different purposes.

6. Diligent: Computers can perform repetitive calculations any number of times with the
same accuracy. Computers do not suffer from human traits, such as tiredness, fatigue,
lack of concentration, etc. It does not have feelings or emotion, taste, knowledge and
experience.

Although computers are highly reliable and versatile machines, they do possess certain
limitations. Since computers are capable of doing only what they are instructed to do, any
wrong instruction (or faulty logic) or any wrong data may result in erroneous output. This is
popularly known as “Garbage –in, Garbage-out.”

Computer is a dumb machine and therefore lacks “common sense”. Anything it does is a
human instruction. It carries out instructions as long as it can understand them no matter
whether they are right or wrong.

Although computers can be instructed to make certain decisions based on mathematical or

logical equations, they cannot make decisions in situations where qualitative considerations
are involved.

Classification of Computers

There are different types of computers available these days. The function of each type of
computer is to process the data and provide to some output to the user. However, the methods
or techniques used by these computers to process and handle the data may be different. We
can classify the computers according to the following three criteria:

A. Based on operating principles:

B. Based on applications

C. Based on size and capabilities.

A) Based on operating principles:

1. Analog computers

2. Digital computers

3. Hybrid computers

1. Analog Computers:

An analog computer is a form of computer that uses continuous physical phenomena such as
electrical, mechanical, or hydraulic quantities to model the problem being solved.

Analog computers are used to process analog data. Analog data is of continuous nature and
which is not discrete or separate. Such type of data includes temperature, pressure, speed
weight, voltage, depth etc. These quantities are continuous and having an infinite variety of
values.

It measures continuous changes in some physical quantity e.g. The Speedometer of a car
measures speed, the change of temperature is measured by a Thermometer, the weight is
measured by Weights machine. These computers are ideal in situations where data can be
accepted directly from measuring instrument without having to convert it into numbers or
codes.

2. Digital Computer: A computer that performs calculations and logical operations

with quantities represented as digits, usually in the binary number system.

The digital computer is a type of computer that stores and processes data in digital form.
Therefore, each type of data is usually stored in these computers in terms of ‘0 and 1’ s
(binary number). The output produced by these computers is also in the digital form. The
digital computers are also capable of processing the analog data. However, the analog data
should be first converted to the digital form, before being processed by these computers.
Similarly, if we want the output in the analog form, then the digital information produced by
these computers should be first converted into an analog form. These conversations are
generally carried out by the inbuilt components of digital computers.

Digital computers are generally faster and more reliable than the analog computer system and
provide more accurate results. The used by a home user is a typical example of digital
computer. The digital computers are also employed in colleges, universities, and small and
medium sized businesses.

3. Hybrid Computers: (Analog + Digital)

The hybrid computer is a combination of analog computer and digital computer because it
encompasses the best features of both these computers. Therefore, the hardware components
of hybrid computers are usually the mixture of analog and digital components. These features
make the hybrid computers very fast, efficient and reliable. In these computers, data is
generally measured and processed in the form of electrical signals and is stored with help of
digital components. However, these computers can also be used to perform various types of
logical operations.

The computer used in hospitals to measure the heartbeat of the patient is very good example
of a hybrid computer. Apart from this, the hybrid computers are also used in scientific
applications, various engineering fields and in controlling business purposes.( For more
understanding refer to last pages)
B) Based on applications:

Different computers are designed for different purposes so that they can perform their tasks
according to their capabilities. On the basis of different applications or purposes, computers
can be classified into the following categories

1. General purpose computer:

General purpose computers are designed to perform a range of tasks. They have the ability
to store numerous programs, but lack in speed and efficiency.

They are designed in such a manner that they can work in all environments. The general
purpose computers are versatile and can store a number of programs meant for performing
distinct tasks. The general purpose computers are not efficient and consume a large amount
of time in generating the result.

2. Special purpose computer:

Special purpose computers are designed to handle a specific problem or to perform a

specific task. A set of instructions is built into the machine.

They are designed in such a manner that they can perform only a specified task. The special
purpose computers are not versatile and their speed and memory size depend on the task that
is to be performed. These computers are less expensive as they do not contain any redundant
information. The special purpose computers are efficient and consume less amount of time in
generating the result.

C) Based on size and capability:

1. Micro Computer or Personal Computer

2. Mini Computer

3. Mainframe Computer

4. Super Computer

1. Micro Computer or Personal Computer

Desktop Computer: a personal or micro-mini computer sufficient to fit on a desk.

Laptop Computer: a portable computer complete with an integrated screen and

keyboard. It is generally smaller in size than a desktop computer and larger than
a notebook computer.
 • Palmtop Computer/Digital Diary /Notebook /PDAs: a hand-sized computer.

Palmtops have no keyboard but the screen serves both as an input and output device.

2. Mini Computer ( 1960)

Mini computers, developed around 1960, are characterized by their smaller size compared to
mainframes yet greater capacity than microcomputers. They serve as midrange computers,
offering more power than microcomputers but less than mainframes. Capable of handling
extensive data and inputs/outputs, they accommodate multiple users simultaneously, typically
ranging from 4 to 200 users. Mini computers find extensive use in business environments,
serving as centralized computers or network servers, connecting numerous desktops. They
are also employed as web servers, managing high transaction volumes affordably. Examples
include PDP II, IBM (8000 series), and VAX 7500.

Mainframe Computer

Mainframe computers, distinguished by their large size, serve as vital systems for major
business operations like financial transactions, ERP, and data analysis. Capable of handling
millions of records daily, they also function as centralized computers with multiple user
terminals. Mainframes require significant space and meticulous environmental control due to
their size and complexity. Manufacturers include IBM, Amdahl, and Hitachi, with examples
like IBM3000, VAX 8000, and CDC 6600. They are predecessors to modern servers, offering
unparalleled processing power albeit at a higher cost.

3. Super Computer

Supercomputers, introduced in the 1960s by Seymour Cray at Control Data Corporation, are
the largest and fastest computers capable of performing complex operations swiftly. They are
tailored for applications requiring extensive and intricate calculations, making them more
expensive than other computer types. Supercomputers excel in speed due to their focus on
executing a small number of programs at a time rather than multitasking. Manufacturers
include IBM, Silicon Graphics, Fujitsu, and Intel, with examples such as CRAY 3, Cyber
205, NEC SX-3, and PARAM.

The various application areas of super computers are as follows:-

• Weather forecasting

• Animated graphics
 • Fluid mechanics

• Nuclear energy research

• Petroleum exploration.

The chief difference between a supercomputer and a mainframe is that a supercomputer

channels all its power into executing a few programs as fast as possible, whereas a mainframe
uses its power to execute many programs concurrently.

APPLICATION OF COMPUTER

Today computers are used in almost every sphere of life. The users from different locations
can easily and quickly communicate with each other with the help of computer. The use of
computer has reduced the paper work to a large extent. Thus computers have become a basic
need to perform various tasks in our day to day life. Some common applications of computers
are discussed below.

Education : Computers are used in schools and colleges to teach students in a better and
easy way. The students can get more information about a specific topic or subject using the
internet. Computers help in easy learning by creating presentations on a specific topic.
Today, students can fill their application forms and give their exams online that facilitates
distance education. Computer-based learning and web-based learning are very popular
amongst students.

Business: Computers are used in different types of business to store a large amount of
information in the form of data bases. Using computers, business meetings can be held
between people sitting at a remote location through web conferencing. Buyers and sellers can
conduct business online through the use of computer and internet.

Communication: Computers that are connected with one another can be used to transfer
data to and from other computers. In order to establish communication between two users,
internet is one of the most common medium. E-mail is a popular system through which a
user can send / receive text messages, graphic messages and file attachments.

Science: Computers are used by various scientists for the purpose of research and
development. They generally make use of computer for research and analysis of new
theories. With the help of computers, scientists are moving towards the possibility of
predicting natural disasters, such as earthquake and tsunami.
Engineering: Computers are used by engineers for the creation of complex drawings and
designs while working in different fields like automobiles and construction. Engineers use
computers extensively for numerical computing.

Banking: Now days, computers are being increasingly used for online banking.
Through online banking, the users or customers can transfer and receive money by using
computers and internet. Some banks also provide the facility of online bill payment through
their websites.

Health: Computers are used by doctors to diagnose various kinds of diseases and
ailments. Several analog and digital devices are connected with computers enabling the
doctors to monitor the condition of a patient and view the internal organs of the body.
Hospitals use computers to maintain and manage patient records and billing systems. They
also use the concept of “telemedicine” to serve the patients at remote locations.

Government: Computers play a crucial role in almost all Government departments.

Revenue, industry, census, police, defense and many other departments use computers
extensively to serve the people better. The concept of “e-governance” is becoming popular
among various agencies.

3.2 Components of computer:

(Hard ware, software, memory)

1. Hardware of computer: ( input, output, storage devices)

The physical devices that make up the computer called hardware. This can be seen and
touched. The hardware units are responsible for entering, storing, and processing the data and
then displaying the output to the users. The basic hardware units of general purpose computer
are keyboard, mouse, memory, CPU, monitor and printer.
Among these hardware units, keyboard and mouse are used to input data into the computer,
memory is used to stored the entered data, CPU is used to process the entered data and
monitor and printer are used to display the processed data to the users.
CPU is the main component inside the computer that is responsible for performing various
operations and also for managing the input and output devices. It includes two components
for its functioning, Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) and Control Unit (CU). ALU is used to
perform the arithmetic operations such as addition, subtractions, etc. and logic operations
such as AND, OR etc. on the data obtained from the memory. CU is used to control the
activities related to the input and output devices. It obtains the instructions from the memory,
decodes them and then, executes them, so as to deliver output to the users.

(a) Input Components:

Input devices are those equipments that help to put data into the memory of a computer.
These devices send the data and convert it into binary systems. This transmitted data are
understood by the computer and makes its operations. The input devices are key board,
mouse, scanner, pen drive, CD , Joy Stick, Light pen, Microphone, Bar Code Reader etc.,
Magnetic Ink Card Reader(MICR), Optical Mark Reader(OMR) etc.
Keyboard: Keyboard is the most common and very popular input device which helps in
inputting data to the computer. The layout of the keyboard is like that of traditional
typewriter, although there are some additional keys provided for performing additional
functions.
Mouse: Mouse is most popular pointing device. It is a very famous cursor-control device
having a small palm size box with a round ball at its base which senses the movement of
mouse and sends corresponding signals to CPU when the mouse buttons are pressed.
Generally it has two buttons called left and right button and a wheel is present between the
buttons. Mouse can be used to control the position of cursor on screen, but it cannot be used
to enter text into the computer.
Scanner: Scanner is an input device which works more like a photocopy machine. It is used
when some information is available on a paper and it is to be transferred to the hard disc of
the computer for further manipulation. Scanner captures images from the source which are
then converted into the digital form that can be stored on the disc. These images can be
edited before they are printed.
Joystick: Joystick is also a pointing device which is used to move cursor position on a
monitor screen. It is a stick having a spherical ball at its both lower and upper ends. The
lower spherical ball moves in a socket. The joystick can be moved in all four directions.
The function of joystick is similar to that of a mouse. It is mainly used in Computer Aided
Designing(CAD) and playing computer games.
Light Pen: Light pen is a pointing device which is similar to a pen. It is used to select a
displayed menu item or draw pictures on the monitor screen. It consists of a photocell and an
optical system placed in a small tube. When the tip of a light pen is moved over the monitor
screen and pen button is pressed, its photocell sensing element detects the screen location
and sends the corresponding signal to the CPU.
(b) Output Components:
It refers to any information and result coming out of a computer. This devices provides
information or result to the user. The out devices are monitor, printer, speaker, graphic
plotter. Etc.
Following are few of the important output devices which are used in a computer.
Monitors
Monitors, commonly called as Visual Display Unit (VDU), are the main output device of a
computer. It forms images from tiny dots, called pixels that are arranged in a rectangular
form. The sharpness of the image depends upon the number of pixels.
There are two kinds of viewing screen used for monitors- Cathode-Ray Tube (CRT) and
Flat- Panel Display
Printers:
Printer is an output device, which is used to print information on paper.
There are two types of printers: Impact Printers and Non-Impact Printers:
Impact Printers: The impact printers print the characters by striking them on the ribbon
which is then pressed on the paper. These printers are of two types- Character printers and
Line printers
Characteristics of Impact Printers :
• Very low consumable costs
• Very noisy
• Useful for bulk printing due to low cost
• There is physical contact with the paper to produce an image
Non-Impact Printers: Non-impact printers print the characters without using ribbon.
These printers print a complete page at a time so they are also called as Page Printers. These
printers are of two types: Laser Printers and Inkjet Printers

Characteristics of Non-impact Printers

• Faster than impact printers.
• They are not noisy.
• High quality.
• Support many fonts and different character size.

(c) Central processing unit: (CPU) CPU is the main component inside the computer that is
responsible for performing various operations and also managing the input and output.
CPU consists of the following features:
• CPU is considered as the brain of the computer.
• CPU performs all types of data processing operations.
• It stores data, intermediate results and instructions(program).
• It controls the operation of all parts of computer.
CPU itself has following three components.
• Memory or Storage Unit
• Control Unit
• ALU(Arithmetic Logic Unit)

(i) Memory or Storage Unit:

This is the unit where the data and results are stored. It refers to the memory of a computer. It helps for storage
and retrieval of data and information. The stored data can be assessed or used when ever required by
processing in CPU. Memory may be internal or external.
Its size affects speed, power and capability. Primary memory and secondary memory are
two types of memories in the computer. Functions of memory unit are:
• It stores all the data and the instructions required for processing.
• It stores intermediate results of processing.
• It stores final results of processing before these results are released to an output
device.
• All inputs and outputs are transmitted through main memory.
(ii) Control Unit:
CU is used is used to control the activities related to the input and output devices. It obtained the instructions
from the memory, decodes and then executes them, so as to deliver output to the users. This unit controls
the operations of all parts of computer but does not carry out any actual data processing
operations.
Functions of this unit are:
• It is responsible for controlling the transfer of data and instructions among other units
of a computer.
• It manages and coordinates all the units of the computer.
• It obtains the instructions from the memory, interprets them, and directs the operation
of the computer.
• It communicates with Input/output devices for transfer of data or results from storage.
• It does not process or store data.
(iii) Arithmetic Logic Unit (A U)
This unit consists of two subsections namely
• Arithmetic section
• Logic Section
Arithmetic Section
Function of arithmetic section is to perform arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction,
multiplication and division. All complex operations are done by making repetitive use of
above operations.
Logic Section
Function of logic section is to perform logic operations such as comparing, selecting,
matching and merging of data. It performs 16 different types of logical operations. The
various logical operations include greater than (>), less than, equal to(=), or not equal to(≠),
shift left, shift right etc. LU also makes use of various logic gates, such as AND, OR, NOR,
etc for performing operation on data.
2. SOFTWARE OF A COMPUTER:
When we think about computer computers, hardware and software are two associated terms.
If fact, computer is a machine known as hardware that cannot do anything on its own. So it
requires some instructions to a desired job. So the sequence of instructions can be understood
by a computer is called computer programs. The collection of various programs in a
computer is the software.
The term software refers to a set of programs and instructions that help the computer in
carrying out their processing. Anything that can be stored electronically is called software.
Software is very necessary for proper functioning of a computer.
For example, we say the problem lies in the software meaning that there is a problem with the
program or instructions not with the computer itself. We say it as a software problem.
(Example- MS office, internet explorer etc)
There are mainly two types of software
1. System software
2. Application software
1. System software :
The programs which are designed to control different operations of the computer are known
as system software. It mainly manages the activities of the computer hardware and interacts
with the application software to perform a particular task. It translates the input language
which the computer can understand. Some examples of system software are Operating
System, Compilers, Interpreter, and Assemblers etc.
✓ It makes the operation of computer system more effective and efficient.
✓ It helps the hardware components work together as they are interrelated and inter
dependent parts.
✓ It supports the development of other application software in less time and effort.
✓ It supports the execution of other application software.
✓ It acts as interface between programs and system.
The system software is an indispensible part of a total computer system. A computer without
software would be very ineffective and most likely impossible to operate.
2. Application software:
The programs which are designed to perform a specific task for the user are known as
application software. Application software is also referred as end user programs, because its
functions are used by the user for obtaining a desired result.
For example, application software for doing admission for particular system provides detail
information about students like,- name, sex, father’s name, mother’s name, address,
qualification etc. application software is widely used in educational, business, medical,
agricultural field, banking, library, insurance etc. Word processor, data base programs,
presentation programs and spread sheets are the examples of application software.
 COMPUTER - MEMORY

A memory is just like a human brain. It is used to store data and instructions. Computer
memory is the storage space in computer where data is to be processed and instructions
required for processing are stored. Without it computer is of no use. Memory plays an
important role in storing and retrieving data. The performance a computer system depends
upon the size of the memory.
Following are the different types of memory.
➢ Primary Memory
➢ Secondary memory
1. Primary Memory (Main Memory)
The storage location where the data are held temporarily is referred as the primary memory and the data are
stored permanently for future use is referred as secondary memory. The primary memory is generally known as
memory and the secondary memory as storage. The data and instructions stored in the primary memory can be
directly accessed by the CPU. However, the information stored in the secondary memory is not directly
accessible to the CPU.
Primary memory holds only those data and instructions on which computer is currently
working. It has limited capacity and data is lost when power is switched off. It is divided into
two subcategories RAM and ROM.
Characteristics of Main Memory
• These are semiconductor memories
• It is known as main memory.
• Usually volatile memory.
• Data is lost in case power is switched off.
• It is working memory of the computer.
• Faster than secondary memories.
• A computer cannot run without primary memory.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
It is temporary in nature i.e. it is the main memory of the computer system that stores the data
temporarily and allows the data to be accessed in any order. The data can be accessed at a
faster speed in RAM. It is a volatile memory and loss its data when power is switched off.
So it always requires constant power supply. It has less storage capacity.
RAM is of two types
• Static RAM (SRAM), Dynamic RAM (DRAM)
Read only Memory (ROM):
It is the memory that stores the data permanently, i.e. it can retain the data even when power
of the computer is switched off. The data can be read from this type of memories but it
cannot be changed. The memory which does not loss their content on failure of power supply
is known as non-volatile memory.
Advantages of ROM
The advantages of ROM are as follows:
• Non-volatile in nature
• These cannot be accidentally changed
• Cheaper than RAMs
• Easy to test
• More reliable than RAMs
• These are static and do not require refreshing
• Its contents are always known and can be verified
Following are the various types of ROM:-
• Programmable ROM (PROM)
• Erasable PROM (EPROM)
• Electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM)
• Flash ROM
Programmable ROM (PROM):
There is another type of primary memory in computer which is called PROM. We know that it is not possible
to modify or erase programs stored in ROM, but it is possible to store our programs in PROM chip. Once the
programs are written, it cannot be changed and remain intact even if power is witched off. Therefore,
programs or instructions written on PROM cannot be changed or erased.
2. Secondary Memory ( storage devices)
This type of memory is also known as external memory or non-volatile. It is slower than
main memory. These are used for storing data/Information permanently. CPU directly does
not access these memories instead they are accessed via input-output routines. Contents of
secondary memories are first transferred to main memory, and then CPU can access it. For
example : Disk, CD-ROM, DVD etc.
Characteristic of Secondary Memory
• These are magnetic and optical memories
• It is known as backup memory.
 • It is non-volatile memory.
• Data is permanently stored even if power is switched off.
• It is used for storage of data in a computer.
• Computer may run without secondary memory.
• Slower than primary memories.
Magnetic Disk: We have observed gramophone record which are circular like a disk
and coated both sides of disk.
Magnetic disk is more popular for direct access storage devices. Each disk consists of a
number of invisible concentric circles called track. Information is recorded on track of a disk
surface in the form of tiny magnetic spots. This disk may be used to erase the data and again
new data can be recorded.
Magnetic Tape: Magnetic tapes are used large volume of data for longer time. In
personal computer we use tapes in the form of cassettes. The cost of storing data in tape is
expensive. The tape consists of magnetic material that store data permanently.
Optical Disk: With very new application and software there is greater demand for memory
capacity. It is the necessity to store large volume of data that need a optical disk. Optical
disk can be divided in the following: Compact Disk, WORM, erasable Optical Disk. Etc.
DVD:
Short for Digital Versatile Disc or Digital Video Disc, a DVD or DVD-ROM is
a disc capable of storing large amounts of data on one disc the size of a standard Compact
Disc. CD/DVD drives were first sold in 1997. Today they are widely used for storing and
viewing movies and other data. To play DVDs on a computer, you must have a DVD drive
and a software DVD player.
SD Card:
Short for Secure Digital Card, the SD Card is one of the more common types of memory
cards used with electronics. The SD technology is used by over 400 brands of electronic
equipment and over 8000 different models, including digital cameras and cell phones. The
SD card has a recognized maximum storage capacity of 2GB (gigabytes), but 4GB versions
do exist. The 4GB versions were not widely used due to issues & limitations with the
technology at that capacity.
Floppy Disk:
Alternatively referred to as a floppy or floppy disk, a floppy diskette was first created
in 1967 by IBM as an alternative to buying hard drives that were extremely expensive at the
time.
 3.5 Computer Networking
(Concept, application, challenges)
A computer network is a set of computers connected together for the purpose of
sharing resources. The most common resource shared today is connection to the
Internet. Other shared resources can include a printer or a file server. The Internet
itself can be considered as a computer network.

A computer network is a set of connected computers. Computers on a network are

called nodes. The connection between computers can be done via cabling, most
commonly the Ethernet cable, or wirelessly through radio waves. Connected
computers can share resources, like access to the Internet, printers, file servers, and
others. A network is a multipurpose connection, which allows a single computer to
do more.
The main benefits or uses of computer network are:

1. Communication
2. Sharing Resources
3. Sharing Software
4. Data Sharing

1. Communication
Using a network, different people can communicate with each other all over the
world. People can communicate at very low cost via e-mail, chatting, telephone,
video telephone, video conferencing, groupware, and SMS services etc.
2. Sharing Resources
In a computer network, resources such as, printers, scanners, fax machines
and modems can be shared among different users. Suppose several personals
computers and a laser printer are connected to a network. Each users can
access the printer.
3. Sharing software:
In a computer network, usually application programs and other software are
stored on the central computer. Users connected to a network can access these
programs or software.
4. Data sharing
In a network environment, any authorized user can access data stored on other
computers on the network. For example, on the Internet, a large number of
Internet users can access same database.
Advantages of Computer Networking

1. It enhances communication and availability of information.

Networking, especially with full access to the web, allows ways of communication
that would simply be impossible before it was developed. Instant messaging can now
allow users to talk in real time and send files to other people wherever they are in the
world.
2. It allows for more convenient resource sharing.
Since the technology involves computer-based work, it is assured that the resources
they wanted to get across would be completely shared by connecting to a computer
network which their audience is also using.
3. It makes file sharing easier.
Computer networking allows easier accessibility for people to share their files, which
greatly helps them with saving more time and effort, since they could do file sharing
more accordingly and effectively.

4. It is highly flexible.
This technology is known to be very flexible, as it gives users the opportunity to
explore everything about essential things, such as software without affecting their
functionality. Plus, people will have the accessibility to all information they need to
get and share.
5. It is an inexpensive system.
Installing networking software on your device would not cost too much, as you are
assured that it lasts and can effectively share information to your peers. Also, there
is no need to change the software regularly, as mostly it is not required to do so.
6. It increases cost efficiency.
With computer networking, you can use a lot of software products available on the
market which can just be stored or installed in your system or server, and can then
be used by various workstations.
7. It boosts storage capacity.
Since you are going to share information, files and resources to other people, you
have to ensure all data and content are properly stored in the system. With this
networking technology, you can do all of this without any hassle, while having all the
space you need for storage.
Disadvantages of Computer Networking

1. It lacks independence.
Computer networking involves a process that is operated using computers, so people
will be relying more of computer work, instead of exerting an effort for their tasks at
hand. Aside from this, they will be dependent on the main file server, which means
that, if it breaks down, the system would become useless, making users idle.

2. It poses security difficulties.

Because there would be a huge number of people who would be using a computer
network to get and share some of their files and resources, a certain user’s security
would be always at risk. There might even be illegal activities that would occur,
which you need to be careful about and aware of.
3. It lacks robustness.
If a computer network’s main server breaks down, the entire system would become
useless. Also, if a bridging device or a central linking server that fails, the entire
network would also come to a standstill..
4. It allows for more presence of computer viruses and malware.
There would be instances that stored files are corrupt due to computer viruses.
Thus, network administrators should conduct regular check-ups on the system, and
the stored files at the same time.
5. Its usage promotes negative acts.
It has been observed that providing users with internet connectivity has fostered
undesirable behavior among them. The huge network of machines could also
encourage them to engage in illicit practices, such as instant messaging and file
sharing, instead of working on work-related matters.
6. It requires an efficient handler.
For a computer network to work efficiently and optimally, it requires high technical
skills and know-how of its operations and administration. A person just having basic
skills cannot do this job

7. It requires an expensive set-up.

Though computer networks are said to be an inexpensive system when it is already
running, its initial set up cost can still be high depending on the number of
computers to be connected. Expensive devices, such as routers, switches, hubs, etc.,
can add up to the cost.
Conclusion
Computer networking will always be a fast and convenient means of transferring and
sharing information, but people should be aware of its consequences as well. They
should remember that often relying on this system can put them at certain risks that
can be cause by its flaws and other malfunctions.

Types of Network Topology

Network Topology is the schematic description of a network arrangement,
connecting various nodes (sender and receiver) through lines of connection.
BUS Topology
Bus topology is a network type in which every computer and network device is
connected to single cable. When it has exactly two endpoints, then it is
called Linear Bus topology.

Features of Bus Topology

1. It transmits data only in one direction.
2. Every device is connected to a single cable
Advantages of Bus Topology
1. It is cost effective.
2. Cable required is least compared to other network topology.
3. Used in small networks.
4. It is easy to understand.
5. Easy to expand joining two cables together.
Disadvantages of Bus Topology
1. Cables fails then whole network fails.
2. If network traffic is heavy or nodes are more the performance of the network
decreases.
3. Cable has a limited length.
4. It is slower than the ring topology.
RING Topology
It is called ring topology because it forms a ring as each computer is connected to
another computer, with the last one connected to the first. Exactly two neighbours
for each device.
Features of Ring Topology
1. A number of repeaters are used for Ring topology with large number of nodes,
because if someone wants to send some data to the last node in the ring
topology with 100 nodes, then the data will have to pass through 99 nodes to
 reach the 100th node. Hence to prevent data loss repeaters are used in the
network.

2. The transmission is unidirectional, but it can be made bidirectional by having 2

connections between each Network Node, it is called Dual Ring Topology.
3. In Dual Ring Topology, two ring networks are formed, and data flow is in
opposite direction in them. Also, if one ring fails, the second ring can act as a
backup, to keep the network up.
4. Data is transferred in a sequential manner that is bit by bit. Data transmitted,
has to pass through each node of the network, till the destination node.
Advantages of Ring Topology
1. Transmitting network is not affected by high traffic or by adding more nodes, as
only the nodes having tokens can transmit data.
2. Cheap to install and expand
Disadvantages of Ring Topology
1. Troubleshooting is difficult in ring topology.
2. Adding or deleting the computers disturbs the network activity.
3. Failure of one computer disturbs the whole network.
STAR Topology
In this type of topology all the computers are connected to a single hub through a
cable. This hub is the central node and all others nodes are connected to the
central node.
Features of Star Topology
1. Every node has its own dedicated connection to the hub.
2. Hub acts as a repeater for data flow.
3. Can be used with twisted pair, Optical Fibre or coaxial cable.
Advantages of Star Topology
1. Fast performance with few nodes and low network traffic.
2. Hub can be upgraded easily.
3. Easy to troubleshoot.
4. Easy to setup and modify.
5. Only that node is affected which has failed, rest of the nodes can work smoot
Disadvantages of Star Topology
1. Cost of installation is high.
2. Expensive to use.
3. If the hub fails then the whole network is stopped because all the nodes depend
on the hub.
4. Performance is based on the hub that is it depends on its capacity

MESH Topology
It is a point-to-point connection to other nodes or devices. All the network nodes
are connected to each other. Mesh has; “ n(n-2)/2’ physical channels to
link n’ devices.
There are two techniques to transmit data over the Mesh topology, they are :
1. Routing
2. Flooding
Routing
In routing, the nodes have a routing logic, as per the network requirements. Like
routing logic to direct the data to reach the destination using the shortest distance.
Or, routing logic which has information about the broken links, and it avoids those
node etc. We can even have routing logic, to re-configure the failed nodes.
Flooding
In flooding, the same data is transmitted to all the network nodes, hence no routing
logic is required. The network is robust, and the its very unlikely to lose the data.
But it leads to unwanted load over the network.
Types of Mesh Topology
1. Partial Mesh Topology : In this topology some of the systems are connected in
the same fashion as mesh topology but some devices are only connected to two
or three devices.
2. Full Mesh Topology : Each and every nodes or devices are connected to each
other.
Features of Mesh Topology
1. Fully connected.
2. Robust.
3. Not flexible.
Advantages of Mesh Topology
1. Each connection can carry its own data load.
2. It is robust.
3. Fault is diagnosed easily.
4. Provides security and privacy.
Disadvantages of Mesh Topology
1. Installation and configuration is difficult.
2. Cabling cost is more.
3. Bulk wiring is required.

TREE Topology
It has a root node and all other nodes are connected to it forming a hierarchy. It is
also called hierarchical topology. It should at least have three levels to the
hierarchy.

Features of Tree Topology

1. Ideal if workstations are located in groups.
2. Used in Wide Area Network.
Advantages of Tree Topology
1. Extension of bus and star topologies.
2. Expansion of nodes is possible and easy.
3. Easily managed and maintained.
4. Error detection is easily done.
Disadvantages of Tree Topology
1. Heavily cabled.
2. Costly.
3. If more nodes are added maintenance is difficult.
4. Central hub fails, network fails.

HYBRID Topology
It is two different types of topologies which is a mixture of two or more topologies.
For example if in an office in one department ring topology is used and in another
star topology is used, connecting these topologies will result in Hybrid Topology
(ring topology and star topology).

Features of Hybrid Topology

1. It is a combination of two or topologies
2. Inherits the advantages and disadvantages of the topologies included
Advantages of Hybrid Topology
1. Reliable as Error detecting and trouble shooting is easy.
2. Effective.
3. Scalable as size can be increased easily.
4. Flexible.
Disadvantages of Hybrid Topology
1. Complex in design.
2. Costly.

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