Computer networks

Definition

Computer networks are systems that interconnect multiple computing devices, allowing them to communicate and share resources. This interconnectedness enables data transfer, resource sharing, and communication between devices such as computers, servers, and mobile devices, facilitating efficient information exchange and collaboration across various platforms and locations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Computer networks can be classified into several types, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and metropolitan area networks (MANs), each serving different geographical areas and purposes.
2. The performance of a computer network is significantly influenced by bandwidth and latency, which determine the speed and efficiency of data transmission.
3. Networking protocols, such as TCP/IP, govern how data packets are transmitted over the internet, ensuring reliable communication between devices.
4. Wireless networks utilize radio waves to connect devices without physical cables, making them more flexible and convenient for mobile computing.
5. Network security measures, like firewalls and encryption, are essential to protect data integrity and confidentiality as it travels across computer networks.

Review Questions

• How do different types of computer networks serve various communication needs?
  • Different types of computer networks, like local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs), cater to specific communication needs based on their scale and purpose. LANs are ideal for connecting devices within a limited area, such as a home or office, enabling fast data transfer. In contrast, WANs span larger distances, connecting multiple LANs across cities or countries, which allows for broader communication but may involve higher latency.
• Analyze the impact of bandwidth and latency on the overall performance of a computer network.
  • Bandwidth refers to the maximum amount of data that can be transmitted over a network in a given time, while latency measures the delay in data transmission. High bandwidth combined with low latency ensures optimal network performance, enabling quick data transfers and smooth communication. If either bandwidth is limited or latency is high, it can lead to slow response times and hinder user experience, especially in applications requiring real-time interactions.
• Evaluate the importance of networking protocols in ensuring effective communication within computer networks.
  • Networking protocols are crucial for facilitating effective communication within computer networks as they establish the rules for data transmission and reception. Protocols like TCP/IP ensure that data packets are correctly formatted, addressed, transmitted, routed, and received without errors. By standardizing communication methods among diverse devices and systems, these protocols enable interoperability and reliability in networking environments, making them foundational to modern digital communications.

Related terms

Bandwidth: The maximum rate of data transfer across a network path, usually measured in bits per second (bps).

Latency: The delay before a transfer of data begins following an instruction for its transfer, often measured in milliseconds.

Protocol: A set of rules or standards that dictate how data is transmitted and received over a network.