Computer Network

Computer Network

A computer network is interconnection of various computer systems located at

different places. In computer network two or more computers are linked together

with a medium and data communication devices for the purpose of

communication data and sharing resources. The computer that provides

resources to other computers on a network is known as server. In the network

the individual computers, which access shared network resources, are known as

nodes.

Types of Networks

Local-Area Networks (LANs)

The computers are geographically close together (that is, in the same building).

Wide-Area Networks (WANs)

The computers are farther apart and are connected by telephone lines or

radio waves. The following characteristics are also used to

categorize different types of networks.

• Topology

The geometric arrangement of a computer system. Common topologies include bus, star, and ring.

• Protocol

The protocol defines a common set of rules and signals that computers on the network use to communicate. One of the most popular protocols for LANs is called Ethernet. Another popular LAN   protocol for PCs is the IBM token-ring network.

• Architecture

Networks can be broadly classified as using either peer-to-peer or client/server architecture. Computers on a network are sometimes called nodes. Computers and devices that allocate resources for a network are called servers.

• Local Area Network (LAN)

LAN is a computer network that spans a relatively small area. Most LANs are confined to a single building or group of buildings. However, one LAN can be connected to other LANS over any distance via telephone lines and radio waves. A system of LANs connected in this way is called a wide-area network (WAN).