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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 A NETWORK
There are mainly five components of a network, 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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