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CMP Networks

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Vinayak Prabhu
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7 views1 page

CMP Networks

Uploaded by

Vinayak Prabhu
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Computer networks are the backbone of modern communication and technology, connecting devices and enabling the

sharing of information, resources, and services. At its core, a computer network is a system of interconnected devices, such
as computers, servers, routers, and switches, that communicate with one another using established protocols. These
networks can range from simple setups, like a home Wi-Fi network, to vast and complex infrastructures, such as the internet.
Types of Networks
Networks can be categorized based on their scale and purpose:
1.Local Area Network (LAN): A LAN is a small network, often confined to a single building or campus, used to connect devices
like computers and printers. It's commonly seen in homes, schools, and offices.
2.Wide Area Network (WAN): Unlike LANs, WANs cover a larger geographic area. The internet is the largest example of a
WAN, connecting millions of smaller networks worldwide.
3.Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): A MAN typically covers a city or a large campus. It’s larger than a LAN but smaller than
a WAN.
4.Personal Area Network (PAN): PANs are focused on a very short range, connecting personal devices like smartphones,
laptops, and wearables.
How Networks Work
Networks rely on hardware and software components to function. Devices are connected through physical mediums like
cables or wirelessly using radio waves. The communication is governed by protocols—rules that dictate how data is
formatted, transmitted, and received. For instance, the TCP/IP protocol suite underpins most of today’s networks, ensuring
reliable data transfer.
Key hardware components include:
•Routers: Direct data between networks.
•Switches: Connect devices within a single network and manage data flow.
•Network Interface Cards (NICs): Allow devices to connect to the network.
Importance of Networks
The primary advantage of computer networks is the ability to share resources. Whether it’s accessing shared files, using

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