Page 10 - trackpad v5.1 class 8 flipbook
P. 10
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."
8 Pro (V5.1)-VIII

