0% found this document useful (0 votes)
12 views6 pages

Networking

Computer networking connects multiple devices to share resources and exchange data, forming the foundation of digital communication. It offers advantages such as resource sharing, enhanced communication, centralized data management, and increased efficiency. Various types of networks exist, including PAN, LAN, MAN, and WAN, each with distinct components and architectures.

Uploaded by

AKR
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
0% found this document useful (0 votes)
12 views6 pages

Networking

Computer networking connects multiple devices to share resources and exchange data, forming the foundation of digital communication. It offers advantages such as resource sharing, enhanced communication, centralized data management, and increased efficiency. Various types of networks exist, including PAN, LAN, MAN, and WAN, each with distinct components and architectures.

Uploaded by

AKR
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 6

What is Computer Networking?

Computer networking involves connecting two or more computing devices to


share resources and exchange data. This interconnected system enables
seamless communication and collaboration, forming the backbone of our
digital world. Networks can range from small home setups to vast global
systems like the Internet.

It’s not just about computers — networks also connect smartphones,


printers, smart TVs, and other digital devices, making seamless
communication and data sharing possible.
Advantages of Networking
Resource Sharing: Easily share hardware like printers and software
applications across multiple devices, reducing costs and increasing
efficiency.

Enhanced Communication: Enables quick messaging, video conferencing,


and global collaboration.

Centralized Data: Central storage makes data backup, access, and


management easier and safer.

Increased Efficiency: Streamlines workflows and boosts productivity in


both homes and organizations.
Types of Networks
PAN (Personal Area Network): Connects devices like Bluetooth
headphones and smartwatches within a personal space.

LAN (Local Area Network): Covers small areas like homes or offices with
high-speed data sharing.

MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): Connects multiple LANs across a city


or campus.

WAN (Wide Area Network): Spans countries or continents — the Internet is


a classic example.
Network Components
NIC (Network Interface Card): Allows a computer to connect to a network.

Cables: Physical media (e.g., Ethernet or fiber optics) for data transfer.

Switches: Forward data to specific devices on a LAN.

Routers: Connect different networks, like home to the Internet.

Hubs: Broadcast data to all devices; now mostly outdated.


Network Architecture
Peer-to-Peer (P2P): All devices share resources equally without a central
server. Simple and used in small setups.

Client-Server: Dedicated servers provide services to client devices. Offers


centralized control, better security, and scalability.
Network Topologies
Star Topology: All devices connect to a central switch or hub. A failure at
the center brings down the network.

Ring Topology: Devices form a loop; data travels in one direction. A single
break disrupts the whole network.

Bus Topology: All devices connect to one cable. Easy to set up, but one
cable break affects the entire network.

Mesh Topology: Each device connects to every other. Offers high


reliability, but setup is complex and costly.

You might also like