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unit-1-introduction-of-computer-networks12

Computer networks connect multiple devices to facilitate resource sharing, communication, and data access. They offer advantages such as file sharing, better connectivity, and cost savings, while also presenting challenges like security risks and dependence on centralized systems. Applications of computer networks span various sectors, including marketing, finance, manufacturing, and telecommunications.

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5 views

unit-1-introduction-of-computer-networks12

Computer networks connect multiple devices to facilitate resource sharing, communication, and data access. They offer advantages such as file sharing, better connectivity, and cost savings, while also presenting challenges like security risks and dependence on centralized systems. Applications of computer networks span various sectors, including marketing, finance, manufacturing, and telecommunications.

Uploaded by

mrnirajbro
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Unit 1

Introduction of computer network

o Computer Network is a group of computers connected with each


other through wires, optical fibers or optical links so that various
devices can interact with each other through a network.
o The aim of the computer network is the sharing of resources
among various devices.
o In the case of computer network technology, there are several
types of networks that vary from simple to complex level.

Features of computer networks


Communication speed

Network provides us to communicate over the network in a fast and


efficient manner. For example, we can do video conferencing, email
messaging, etc. over the internet. Therefore, the computer network is a
great way to share our knowledge and ideas.

File sharing

File sharing is one of the major advantage of the computer network.


Computer network provides us to share the files with each other.

Back up and Roll back is easy

Since the files are stored in the main server which is centrally located.
Therefore, it is easy to take the back up from the main server.
Software and Hardware sharing

We can install the applications on the main server, therefore, the user
can access the applications centrally. So, we do not need to install the
software on every machine. Similarly, hardware can also be shared.

Security

Network allows the security by ensuring that the user has the right to
access the certain files and applications.

Scalability

Scalability means that we can add the new components on the network.
Network must be scalable so that we can extend the network by adding
new devices. But, it decreases the speed of the connection and data of
the transmission speed also decreases, this increases the chances of
error occurring. This problem can be overcome by using the routing or
switching devices.

Reliability

Computer network can use the alternative source for the data
communication in case of any hardware failure.

Advantages of Computer Networks

File sharing
The major advantage of a computer network is that is allows file
sharing and remote file access. A person sitting at one workstation
that is connected to a network can easily see files present on another
workstation, provided he is authorized to do so.

Resource sharing
All computers in the network can share resources such as printers, fax
machines, modems, and scanners.

Better connectivity and communications


It allows users to connect and communicate with each other easily.
Various communication applications included e-mail and groupware are
used. Through e-mail, members of a network can send message and
ensure safe delivery of data to other members, even in their absence.

Internet access
Computer networks provide internet service over the entire network.
Every single computer attached to the network can experience the
high speed internet.

Entertainment
Many games and other means of entertainment are easily available on
the internet. Furthermore, Local Area Networks (LANs) offers and
facilitates other ways of enjoyments, such as many players are
connected through LAN and play a particular game with each other
from remote location.

Inexpensive system
Shared resources mean reduction in hardware costs. Shared files mean
reduction in memory requirement, which indirectly means reduction in
file storage expenses. A particular software can be installed only once
on the server and made available across all connected computers at
once. This saves the expense of buying and installing the same
software as many times for as many users.

Flexible access
A user can log on to a computer anywhere on the network and access
his files. This offers flexibility to the user as to where he should be
during the course of his routine.

Instant and multiple access


Computer networks are multiply processed .many of users can access
the same information at the same time. Immediate commands such as
printing commands can be made with the help of computer networks.

Disadvantages of Computer Networks

Lack of data security and privacy


Because there would be a huge number of people who would be using a
computer network to get and share some of their files and resources, a
certain user’s security would be always at risk. There might even be
illegal activities that would occur, which you need to be careful about
and aware of.

Presence of computer viruses and malwares


If even one computer on a network gets affected by a virus, there is a
possible threat for the other systems getting affected too. Viruses
can spread on a network easily, because of the interconnectivity of
workstations. Moreover, multiple systems with common resources are
the perfect breeding ground for viruses that multiply.
Lack of Independence
Since most networks have a centralized server and dependent clients,
the client users lack any freedom whatsoever. Centralized decision
making can sometimes hinder how a client user wants to use his own
computer.

Lack of Robustness
As previously stated, if a computer network’s main server breaks down,
the entire system would become useless. Also, if it has a bridging
device or a central linking server that fails, the entire network would
also come to a standstill.

Need an efficient handler


For a computer network to work efficiently and optimally, it requires
high technical skills and know-how of its operations and administration.
A person just having basic skills cannot do this job. Take note that the
responsibility to handle such a system is high, as allotting permissions
and passwords can be daunting. Similarly, network configuration and
connection is very tedious and cannot be done by an average technician
who does not have advanced knowledge.
Applications & Uses of Networks

Marketing and sales


Computer networks are used extensively in both marketing and sales
organizations. Marketing professionals use them to collect, exchange,
and analyze data relating to customer needs and product development
cycles. Sales applications include teleshopping, which uses order entry
computers or telephones connected to an order-processing network,
and on-line reservation services for hotels, airlines, and so on.

Financial services
Today's financial services are totally dependent on computer networks.
Applications include credit history searches, foreign exchange and
investment services, and electronic funds transfer (EFT), which allows
a user, to transfer money without going into a bank (an automated
teller machine is a kind of electronic funds transfer; automatic
paycheck deposit is another).

Manufacturing
Computer networks are used today in, many aspects of manufacturing,
including the manufacturing process itself. Two applications that use
networks to provide essential services are computer-assisted design
(CAD) and computer-assisted manufacturing (CAM), both of which
allow multiple users to work on a project simultaneously.

Electronic messaging
Probably the most widely used network application is electronic mail (e-
mail).

Directory services
Directory services allow lists of files to be stored in a central location
to speed worldwide search operations.

Information services
Network information services include bulletin boards and data banks. A
World Wide Web site offering the technical specifications for a new
product is an information service.

Electronic data interchange (EDI)


EDI allows business information (including documents such as purchase
orders and invoices) to be transferred without using paper.

Teleconferencing

Teleconferencing allows conferences to occur without the participants


being in the same place. Applications include simple text conferencing
(where participants communicate through their keyboards and
computer monitors).

Cellular telephone
Today's cellular networks make it possible to maintain wireless phone
connections even while traveling over large distances.

Cable television
Future services provided by cable television networks may include video
on request, as well as the same information, financial, and
communications services currently provided by the telephone
companies and computer networks.

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