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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 that is not connected to any network is known as a stand-alone 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 (cables).
                  This connection between devices can be either wired or wireless. The network serves the following

                  important purposes:
                  1.   It allows information or files to be shared
                      with other computers in the network.

                  2.    It allows computers  in the network to
                      share hardware like printers, scanners, fax
                      machines, hard disks, etc.

                  3.   It allows  sharing of application  software
                      over the network.

                  4.    It allows rapid  communication  such as
                      e-mail, messaging, etc.

                  5.   It allows us to store information in one centralised location.
                  6.   It is a cost-effective method.




                            COMPONENTS OF A NETWORK


                  Before we discuss the components of a network, 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. "Communication  channel is  the  medium  that
                  helps carry information from one place to another." Now, let's learn about the components of a
                  computer network.



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