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The computers on the network can communicate with each other as well as work independently.
                  Each computer in a network is called a node. The computers in the network maybe linked through
                  a cable, hub, switch, NIC (Network Interface Card), modem or router.

                   i +   NEED FOR COMPUTER NETWORK

                  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 (cables).
                  This connection between devices can be either wired or wireless. Network serves the following

                  important purposes:
                  •  It allows information or files to be shared with other computers in the network.
                  •  It allows computers in the network to share hardware like printers, scanners, fax machines,
                     hard disks, 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.
                   i +   ADVANTAGES OF COMPUTER NETWORK


                  The advantages of computer network are:
                  •  The information can be easily shared with others.
                  •  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-mail and
                     instant messaging which saves time and money in passing information.

                   i +   COMPONENTS OF DATA COMMUNICATION

                  Data communication is the process of transmitting digital or analog data between two or more
                  devices. There are mainly five components of data communication, which are as follows:

                  •  Sender: A sender is a computer that wants to send information to other computer connected
                     to the network.
                  •   Receiver: A receiver is a computer which is expecting the data from another computer 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 which needs to be transferred from one
                     computer to another.

                  •  Protocol: A protocol is a set of standard rules used for communication.



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