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Computer Networks

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20 views

Computer Networks

.sjsjsk

Uploaded by

Ssekitene derrick
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 7

COMPUTER NETWORKS

A computer network is a set of interconnected computers and other


devices that can communicate and share resources with each other.
These interconnected devices can be physically wired together using
cables or wirelessly connected through radio waves or other
communication technologies. The primary purpose of a computer
network is to enable the sharing of information, resources, and services
among the connected devices.

Computer networks can vary in size and complexity, ranging from small
local networks within a single home or office to vast global networks like
the internet that connect billions of devices worldwide. They can also be
categorized based on their geographical scope:

Local Area Network (LAN): A LAN is a network that covers a relatively


small area, such as a single building, office, or campus. LANs are
commonly used to connect computers, printers, and other devices within
a home or business.

Wide Area Network (WAN): A WAN covers a larger geographical area


and typically connects LANs in different locations, often over long
distances. The internet is an example of a global WAN.

Computer networks can serve various purposes, including:

Sharing files and resources: Users on a network can share files,


documents, printers, and other hardware resources.

Internet access: Networks often provide access to the internet, allowing


users to browse websites, send emails, and access online services.

Communication: Networks enable real-time communication through


services like email, instant messaging, and video conferencing.

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Centralized data storage: Networks can facilitate centralized data
storage and backup, making it easier to manage and protect data.

Collaborative work: Networks support collaborative work environments


where multiple users can collaborate on projects and documents
simultaneously.

To facilitate communication and data exchange within a network, various


networking protocols and technologies are used, including Ethernet, Wi-
Fi, TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol), and many
others. Network devices such as routers, switches, and hubs play
essential roles in directing data traffic within a network.

Computer networks offer numerous advantages, but they also


come with their own set of disadvantages.

Advantages:

Resource Sharing:

Advantage: Computer networks allow for the sharing of hardware


resources such as printers, scanners, and storage devices, reducing costs
and improving efficiency.

Example: Multiple users in an office can share a single printer, reducing


the need for multiple devices.

Data Sharing:

Advantage: Networks enable easy sharing of data and files between


connected devices, facilitating collaboration and information exchange.

Example: Team members can access and collaborate on the same


document in real-time.

Remote Access:

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Advantage: Users can access network resources and data remotely,
enabling flexible work arrangements and remote management.

Example: Employees can access work-related files from home or while


traveling.

Centralized Management:

Advantage: Network administrators can manage and control resources,


security, and configurations centrally, simplifying maintenance.

Example: Network administrators can update software or security


settings across all connected devices from a central location.

Cost Efficiency:

Advantage: Sharing resources and infrastructure reduces costs


compared to individual, standalone systems.

Example: It's more cost-effective to connect computers in an office to a


shared network than to purchase separate internet connections for each.

Scalability:

Advantage: Networks can easily scale to accommodate additional


devices and users as an organization grows.

Example: A company can add new employees and computers to the


network without significant disruption.

Disadvantages:

Security Risks:

Disadvantage: Networks are vulnerable to security threats like hacking,


malware, and data breaches, requiring robust security measures.

Example: A network breach can lead to the exposure of sensitive data or


unauthorized access to resources.

Complexity:

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Disadvantage: Setting up and managing networks can be complex,
requiring specialized knowledge and expertise.

Example: Configuring routers and firewalls correctly can be challenging


for inexperienced users.

Downtime:

Disadvantage: Network outages or failures can disrupt operations,


leading to downtime and productivity losses.

Example: A hardware failure in a critical network component can result


in service interruptions.

Maintenance Overhead:

Disadvantage: Networks require ongoing maintenance, updates, and


troubleshooting, which can be time-consuming and costly.

Example: Regular software updates and security patches are necessary


to maintain network integrity.

Compatibility Issues:

Disadvantage: Different devices and software may not always be


compatible with each other, leading to integration challenges.

Example: Incompatibility between older and newer devices can hinder


network functionality.

Privacy Concerns:

Disadvantage: The sharing of data and resources on a network can raise


privacy concerns if not properly managed.

Example: Unauthorized access to personal data on a shared network can


result in privacy breaches.

Network type:

A client/server network

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This model is widely used in various networked applications and services
to distribute tasks, manage resources, and facilitate communication.

Client:

A client is a computer or device that requests services, resources, or data


from another computer or server. Clients are typically end-user devices
such as desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, or tablets.

Clients rely on servers to provide them with specific services, such as file
storage, web hosting, email, or database access.

Client devices use software applications (e.g., web browsers, email


clients, file transfer programs) to communicate with servers and access
the services they offer.

In a client/server network, multiple client devices can simultaneously


request services from one or more servers.

Server:

A server is a powerful computer or device designed to provide services,


resources, or data to multiple clients.

Servers are optimized for performance, reliability, and high availability to


ensure uninterrupted service delivery.

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Common types of servers include web servers (for hosting websites), file
servers (for storing and sharing files), email servers (for handling email
communication), and database servers (for managing databases).

Servers run specialized server software to respond to client requests and


provide the requested services or data.

In a client/server network, servers are responsible for processing client


requests, managing data, and ensuring data integrity and security.

Key characteristics and advantages of client/server networks:

Centralized Control: Client/server networks offer centralized control,


making it easier to manage and secure resources. Server administrators
can enforce security policies, perform backups, and monitor network
activity.

Scalability: These networks are scalable, meaning you can add more
clients or servers as needed to accommodate growth. This scalability
supports organizations of various sizes.

Efficiency: Servers are optimized for specific tasks, allowing them to


provide services efficiently. Clients don't need to perform resource-
intensive tasks locally, reducing the load on client devices.

Resource Sharing: Client devices can share resources hosted on


servers, such as files, printers, and databases, improving collaboration
and resource utilization.

Security: Server-based security measures, such as access controls and


authentication, help protect data and resources from unauthorized
access or breaches.

Reliability: Servers are designed for high availability and reliability,


minimizing downtime and ensuring continuous access to critical services.

Data Integrity: Centralized data storage on servers helps maintain data


integrity and consistency, reducing the risk of data corruption or loss.

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