Page 10 - trackpad v5.1 class 8 flipbook
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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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