Computer network

A communication system provides the transfer or sharing of data and information between computers installed at different locations through connectivity is called computer network.

In a computer network, a large number of computers are interconnected with each other, through one or more transmission paths. The type and structure of a computer network depends upon different parameter, according to the needs of users. Networking of a computer allows direct access to any other computer, anywhere and anytime, and one can transmit the information in any part of the world.

Types of computer network

The network may be of a small group of computers, or a large number of computers connected with communication link at different locations. Depending upon the operational area of the network, the networking may be classified as discussed below-

1. Local Area Network (LAN) – A local area network is a small group of networks that interconnected together and located inside a single building within the building of same organization or institution or within a limited area. All the terminals are connected with a main computer, which is widely called as server. The server stores all sorts of data, programs, files, and different software, which provide them to all workstations. LAN system can have more than one server and supports a range of about 10km.
2. Wide Area Network (WAN) – This type of network is used to connect a wider geographical area including different cities or even different countries. These communication links are established through telephone lines or microwave links via satellite. Wide Area Network has made it possible to improve the working of business circles and other organizations. This tyoe of network has the capability of handling large database but involves higher costs.
3. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) – This type of network is used to connect different sites in the city and its nearby areas. Sites in these cities important offices, big organizations, business houses, government offices, head offices of big companies, stock exchanges, and many more. Depending upon the location of metropolitan sites, the network may be of LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network) type. Such networks are of great help to business houses in ascertaining their products sales at any moment. The information exchange regarding establishments of different cities, latest trend in share business can be readily and instantaneously known.