First, let’s answer the question: what is computer network? There are two (or more) computers connected by a cable to exchange various data. Today it is a common thing, but a few decades ago, it seemed like a big achievement.
Computer networks came about because of the need to exchange data quickly. Before they existed, users had to copy information on disks or print it out. Furthermore, if changes were made to a document, merging it with its original version was impossible. Fortunately, the problem has been solved, and today’s users actively utilize computer networking.
Why is it Important to Understand Computer Networking in 2023?
If you’re in business, the importance of computer networking seems obvious. It affects everything from applications to backup and recovery tools, from how your team members communicate to where essential data is stored.
The right networking solution allows your business to grow. By sharing all the information, your team will increase productivity and efficiency, not to mention the other benefits to the business like cost-effectiveness and data security.
Computer Networking Concepts To Master
Not every PC and laptop owner feels comfortable when it comes to types of computer network solutions or related components. However, if you are going to use this solution for your business, you should master at least the basic concepts.
Network Topology
The word comes from the Greek language, and it means “place”. In the computer world, it literally means the physical layout of all components of computer network systems, from routers to cables. In modern usage, topology also refers to network architecture like Ethernet.
There are several basic network topologies, including Bus Topology and Hybrid Topology. Which one to choose when designing a network? This depends on the architecture, management and cost of the network.
Local/Wide Area Network
If you’re seeking examples of computer network systems, LAN and WAN are some of them. Both networks include a group of devices ranging from printers to smartphones and tablets that are linked together and can send/receive information from each other. However, there is a fundamental difference between the two.
A Local Area Network (also referred to as a LAN) includes devices connected within a single location. The Wide Area Network (WAN), meanwhile, connects LANs in multiple locations, as well as to individual devices connected remotely. It may be available to the public or limited to a company/organization.
Network Equipment
Users typically face top computer networking challenges because of improperly picked equipment. This section includes many components. For convenience, we can distinguish among them:
- Core components interconnect other components.
- Hybrid components can be found in the connection points of the various networks.
- Hardware components are in the core.
The Network Switch is one of the main ones in the hardware section. Its task is to maintain communication between all connected devices. But it is also worth remembering the role of Router and Switch. Working on the network layer, the task of the router is to find the shortest path for a packet. Meanwhile, the switch is responsible for connecting various devices within one network.
Pay Special Attention to DNS
In simple words, DNS is a global database system. Its peculiarity is that IP addresses are related to easy-to-remember names. It is critical for computers exchanging data to have unique identifiers such as IP addresses. Trying to identify a particular network component, it is hard for a user to remember something like 102.63.14.511. That’s why you have a DNS solution that assigns a specific name to an IP address.
Network Security
We must also pay attention to security when considering basic computer networking concepts. As the name suggests, network security is responsible for protecting the entire infrastructure and components against possible unauthorized access, theft, misuse, etc.
The main purpose of computer networks is to enable the rapid exchange of information and the efficient use of various resources. Although understanding them seems complicated for some people, in practice, knowing the basics is enough to start using them. Above, we have talked about the concepts you should start with today.