Imagine you want to send a letter to a friend. With no postal services, no post office or no address, it’s all chaos, isn’t it? How would be the current World without Computer/Internet? Whether you’re sending memes, joining a Zoom meeting, or watching a movie, you’re also relying on a heavy back-to-back meeting. Welcome to the world of encounters
In this article, we will explain what a computer network is. Why is it important? What types have you heard of (i.e. LAN, WAN, MAN), and how do these networks control your digital life?
Table of Contents
What is a computer network?
Strictly speaking, a computer network is a cluster of computers. Two or more computers (or devices) are connected to share information, resources, or the Internet.
Think of it as a conversation between your computers on the Internet, like your phone talking to your router. A printer runs on a computer Or a smart TV streams apps from Netflix servers.
Why it’s good to have a Networks.
If there is no network:
- There will be no more Internet.
- You can’t send emails, share files or work remotely.
- The office will not have integrated printers or servers.
- Your phone won’t be based on the cloud.
- From small buildings to large global enterprises — the network is the backbone.
Objects in a network
Before we delve into those forms, here are some of the most common features of social networking sites:
Equipment: Computers, phones, servers, routers, switches, and so on.
Communication devices: wired (e.g. Ethernet cable) or wireless (e.g. Wi-Fi);
Protocol: TCP/IP and OSI are the example of Standards for communication, the language of the Internet.
Networking software: Communications over a network, which is handled by the system and Software is called ad Networking software.
Types of Networks: From Local to Global
LAN (Local Area Network)
What it is: A small personal network. It is usually found in homes, offices, or schools.
Example: Your home Wi-Fi connects your phone, computer, and smart TV.
Interesting fact: LANs are very fast and inexpensive because they take up short distances.
WAN (Wide Area Network)
What it is: A large organization that spans cities, states, and even countries.
Example: The Internet is a large WAN.
How to use it: Connect multiple LANs using telephone poles, satellite dishes, or submarine cables.
MAN (Metropolitan Area Group)
What it is: A network around a large city or university.
Example: A university with several connected buildings or public Wi-Fi in the city.
We have also explained the advantages and disadvantages of all the three ie., LAN VS MAN VS WAN.
Wired vs wireless networks
You’ve probably heard that term before. But what is the difference?
Wired networks use wires (such as Ethernet) to connect. It is generally quick and safe
Wireless networks use radio signals such as Wi-Fi or cellular data. That’s simple, but it can be misleading.
Most modern systems use a mixture of the two systems.
OSI Model — Simple Truth.
Behind every network communication are 7 invisible parts that work together. This component is called the OSI model. Each layer deals with an aspect of the work. From physical debt to operations
Here are some relevant comparisons:
To send a letter means to write a letter. Put it in an envelope Put your letter in the post, sort it, carry it, send it and finally, read it. The OSI model is like sending a letter. There, each component stores an individual function.
All network devices
Here’s a short version:
- Router: Connects your computer to the internet.
- Switch: Connects devices in a LAN and transmits data securely.
- Modem: Translates signals for telephone or cable communication.
- Access Point: Enables access to a wireless network.
Real-world networking software
Remote service: Cloud services like Google Drive or Microsoft Teams are available over the network.
Smart Home: Devices communicate with each other over a Wi-Fi or Zigbee network.
Games: Multiplayer games rely on social networking that requires little time to keep you connected.
Transparency: Patient data is shared between hospitals. Using a secure network .
What about security?
Each network can be targeted. Hackers, malware and data leaks are real risks.
That’s why we use:
- Firewall to block malicious traffic
- Encryption to protect data during transition
- Configure a secure VPN site through a public network .
The future of the network
As we enter the age of AI, 5G, and the Internet of Things (IoT), networks are thriving. We are talking about these things.
Edge computing: Bringing data processing closer to the source
SDN (Software Defined Network): A network that can be programmed and managed remotely.
Quantum Networks: Yes, They Are and Can Change Everything .
Final recommendations
The computer network may be invisible, but the computer network dominates every aspect of our lives. Understanding how a computer network works is no longer just a task for computer users. But knowledge is important in this interconnected world. Whether you install a router in your home or want to become a network engineer, it all starts here.
So the next time you click “cast” or watch your favorite show, remember that there’s a whole network working behind the scenes to make it happen.