Application of Computer Network

What is a Computer Network?

A computer network is a group of linked computers and other gadgets that can communicate and share resources. Let's see some examples of computer networks like computer servers, routers, switches and many other hardware elements gadgets. With the help of the computer network, people can exchange or share information or data with the help of devices, and these devices also allow us to collaborate efficiently and effectively.

There are a variety of sizes and levels of complexity in computer networks, and they can be wired or wireless. There is a large global network that helps to connect computers and systems from around the world that can be formed from small, local networks that are contained within a single home or office.

Application of Computer Network

There are a variety of fields in computer networks that are used in industries. Some of them are as follows:

1. Internet and World Wide Web

In computer networks, we have a global internet, also known as the World Wide Web, that offers us various features like access to websites, online services and retrieval of information. With the help of the World Wide Web, we can browse, and we can do search, and access web pages and multimedia content.

2. Communication

With the help of computer networks, communication is also easy because we can do email, instant messaging, voice and video calls and video conferencing, which helps us to communicate with each other effectively. People can use these features in their businesses and organizations to stay connected with each other.

3. File Sharing and Data Transfer

Data transfer and file sharing are made possible by networks that connect different devices. This covers file sharing within a business setting, file sharing between personal devices, and downloading/uploading of content from the internet.

4. Online gaming

Multiplayer online games use computer networks to link players from all over the world, enabling online competitions and real-time gaming experiences.

5. Remote Access and Control

Networks enable users to access and control systems and devices from a distance. This is helpful when accessing home automation systems, managing servers, and providing remote IT support.

6. Social media

With the help of a computer network, we can use social media sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to help people set up their profiles, and we can connect with others and share content on social media.

7. Cloud Computing

The provision of on-demand access to computing resources and services hosted in distant data centres relies on networks. Some example of cloud computing is software as a service (SaaS), platform as a service (PaaS) and infrastructure as service (IaaS).

8. Online Banking and E-Commerce

Online banking and e-commerce platforms, where customers conduct financial transactions and make online purchases, require secure computer networks.

9. Enterprise Networks

In Computer networks, we have some networks that are only used in businesses and organizations so they can store data and share files and resources like printers, scanners, etc.

10. Healthcare

With the help of computer networks in the health industry, we can share patient records and store the records in the form of data that is easy and secure compared to the file method. Networks are also necessary for telemedicine and remote patient monitoring.

11. Education

Schools use networks to access online courses, virtual classrooms, and other online learning materials. Campuses of colleges and universities frequently have extensive computer networks.

12. Transportation and Logistics

The transportation sector uses Computer Networks to manage and track shipments, plan the best routes, and coordinate logistics activities.

13. Internet of Things (IoT) and Smart Homes

Through the Internet of Things (IoT), smart homes use networks to connect to and manage a variety of devices, including thermostats, security cameras, and smart appliances.

14. Scientific Research

To share data, work together on projects, and access high-performance computing resources for data analysis and scientific simulations, researchers use networks.

15. Government and Defense

With the help of computer networks, we can communicate, share data, and advance national defence. Government agencies and the military rely on secure networks.

These are just a few instances of the many areas of our lives where computer networks are used. Computer networks are fundamental to facilitating communication, teamwork, and the effective exchange of knowledge and resources globally.

Types of Computer Networks

There are different kinds of computer networks, each created to fulfil a particular function and a specific connectivity requirement. Typical computer network types are listed below:

• Local Area Network (LAN): LANs are networks that are typically limited to a small geographic area, like a single office, home, or building. They link computers, printers, and servers to make resource sharing and communication possible within a constrained space. Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi are frequently used in LANs for connectivity.
• Wide Area Network (WAN): WANs connect LANs across multiple cities, regions, or even entire countries. They typically cover a larger geographic area. An international example of a WAN is the internet. For long-distance communication, WANs employ a variety of technologies, including satellite links, fibre optics, and leased lines.
• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): A MAN is a network that spans a city or sizable campus and is in between a LAN and WAN in terms of size. It is made to provide high-speed data transfer between various LANs within a metropolitan area.
• Personal Area Network (PAN): The smallest type of network, a PAN, typically links personal devices like laptops, tablets, and smartphones that are used in a person's workspace. For PANs, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are frequently employed.
• Campus Area Network (CAN): A CAN is comparable to a MAN but covers an academic or commercial campus or an industrial park. To enable centralized control and communication, it links numerous LANs within a specified geographic area.
• Cloud Network: Cloud networks connect to the internet to access the services and resources of cloud computing that are housed in distant data centres. Software, storage, and processing power are all available to users as needed.
• IoT (Internet of Things) networks link various smart objects, sensors, and devices to share and collect data. Applications like home automation, smart cities, and industrial IoT depend on these networks.

These are some of the most prevalent categories of computer networks, each with unique traits and functions catered to particular requirements and contexts. Various elements, including size, scope, use, geographic coverage, and necessary features, influence the choice of network type.

Limitation of Computer Network

Although computer networks have many benefits, they also have drawbacks and difficulties that users and organizations should take into account. Here are a few typical computer network drawbacks:

• Security issues: Malware, viruses, hacking, and data breaches are all-too-common security threats. Strong security measures are needed for networks to protect data and systems.
• Complexity: Setting up, running, and maintaining a computer network can be complicated. It can take a lot of work to manage larger networks effectively.
• Cost: Building and running a network can be costly. Hardware, software, maintenance, and security precautions are all costs.
• Reliability Issues: Network interruptions or downtime can be caused by hardware malfunctions, software bugs, or outside variables like power outages or natural disasters. High network availability demands redundant systems and backup plans.
• Performance bottlenecks: When dealing with large amounts of data or heavy network traffic, networks may experience performance problems. Network optimization may be needed to address these bottlenecks.
• Compatibility: Maintaining compatibility between different hardware, operating systems, and software programs on a network can be difficult. Functionality problems may result from interoperability issues.
• Limitations on Bandwidth: On shared or crowded networks, the bandwidth available can affect how quickly and responsively data transfers occur.
• Privacy Concerns: The risk of interception when sending sensitive or private information over networks raises privacy concerns. To solve this problem, encryption and secure communication protocols are used.
• Management and maintenance: Monitoring, troubleshooting, and updates to hardware and software components are all part of the ongoing network administration and maintenance tasks.
• Scalability Challenges: Growing a network to accommodate expansion can be difficult and requires careful planning in order to maintain security and performance.
• Legacy Systems: Older or legacy systems might not work with contemporary network technologies, which makes integration and maintenance difficult.
• Limited range (in Wireless Networks): The signal strength of wireless networks can be impacted by interference and obstacles, and their range is also limited.

Computer networks continue to be essential tools for sharing resources, collaborating, and communicating despite these drawbacks in today's interconnected world. To address these limitations and maximize the advantages of networks while minimizing their disadvantages, careful planning, investment, and ongoing management are necessary.