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There are different kinds of computer networks that work in different ways. Networks may be
very small and simple or they may be complex as a global network like the Internet. There may
be wired or wireless connection between computers on the network.
NEED FOR COMPUTER NETWORK
Computers and other devices connected on a network help in:
Resource Sharing: It helps the users to share files and hardware devices such as printers,
scanners, etc.
Communication: It helps us to communicate with others through e-mail, video conference,
instant messaging, etc.
ADVANTAGES OF COMPUTER NETWORK
The advantages of computer network are:
The information can be easily shared by people.
It reduces the cost of hardware.
Store information in one centralised location.
Reliability implies backing up of information. If a system crashes, then the information is
accessible on another workstation for future use.
Reduction in installation cost.
User authentication process to secure the data.
People will have access to all the information they need to get and share through e-mails and
instant messaging which saves time and money in passing information.
COMPONENTS OF A COMMUNICATION SYSTEM
There are mainly five components of a communication system which are as follows:
Sender: A sender is a device (usually a computer) that wants to send information to other
computer connected to the network.
Receiver: A receiver is a device that receives data from another device on the network.
Transmission Medium: A transmission medium is a communication channel through which
information is transferred from one computer to another on a network.
Message: A message is the information or data that needs to be transferred from one device
to another.
Protocol: A protocol is set of standard rules used for communication.
NETWORK TERMINOLOGIES
There are several terms related to computer network. Let us discuss some of them.
Server
A server is also called host computer. It controls the access to the hardware and software on the
network. It provides a centralised storage area for the programs, data and information.
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