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    COMPUTER NETWORK

                      A computer network is a collection of computers and their peripheral devices (the network’s
                      components)  connected by  communication  links (wired or wireless) through which data  is
                      transferred in the form of signals. In other words, a network is defined as a group of devices that
                      are linked together to share information, data and resources.

                      Note that a computer which is not connected to any network is known as a standalone computer
                      and a computer connected to a network is known as a node or workstation.

                                NEED OF COMPUTER NETWORKING

                      Networking is a way of getting all the devices to communicate with each other and use the same
                      data  files  and resources through a physical  pathway  called  the  transmission  medium.  This
                      connection  between  devices  can be  either  wired  or wireless. Network  serves the  following
                      important purposes:

                         It allows  information  or files to  be shared
                        among other computers in the network.

                         It allows  computers  in the network to
                        share hardware like printers, scanners, fax
                        machines, storage devices, etc.

                         It allows sharing of application software over
                        the network.
                         It  allows rapid  communication  such  as

                        e-mail, messaging, etc.
                         It allows us to store information in one centralised location.

                         It is a cost-effective method.

                                COMPONENTS OF A COMMUNICATION SYSTEM

                      Before we discuss the components of a communication system, let us first understand the
                      process of communication between two persons. When two persons communicate with each
                      other, one speaks and the other listens. The person who is speaking is the sender and the person
                      who is listening is the receiver of the information. The voice originating from the sender reaches
                      the receiver through the air.

                      Therefore, air is the communication channel. A communication channel is the medium that helps
                      carry information from one place to another.

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