Worldwide System Of Computer Network
Introduction To Computer Network
The concept of Network is not new. In simple terms it means an interconnected set of some
objects. For decades we are familiar with the Radio, Television, railway, Highway, Bank and
other types of networks. In recent years, the network that is making significant impact in our
day-to-day life is the Computer network. By computer network we mean an interconnected set
of autonomous computers. The term autonomous implies that the computers can function
independent of others. However, these computers can exchange information with each other
through the communication network system. Computer networks have emerged as a result of the
convergence of two technologies of this century- Computer and Communication as shown in
Fig. 1.1. The consequence of this revolutionary merger is the emergence of an integrated system
that transmit all types of data and information. There is no fundamental difference between data
communications and data processing and there are no fundamental differences among data, voice
and video communication
1. Definition:
A computer network is a set of connected computers. Computers on a network are called
nodes. The connection between computers can be done via cabling, most commonly the
Ethernet cable, or wirelessly through radio waves. Connected computers can share
resources, like access to the Internet, printers, file servers, and others. A network is a
multipurpose connection, which allows a single computer to do more.
A computer network, or data network, is a digital telecommunications network which
allows nodes to share resources. In computer networks, computing devices exchange data
with each other using connections (data links) between nodes. These data links are
Established over cable media such as wires or optic cables, or wireless media such as
WiFi.
Network computer devices that originate, route and terminate the data are called network
nodes. Nodes can include hosts such as personal computers, phones, servers as well as
networking hardware. Two such devices can be said to be networked together when one
device is able to exchange information with the other device, whether or not they have a direct connection to each other. In most cases, application-specific communications
protocols are layered (i.e. carried as payload) over other more general communications
protocols. This formidable collection of information technology requires skilled network
management to keep it all running reliably.
Computer networks support an enormous number of applications and services such as access to the World Wide Web, digital video, digital audio, shared use of application and
storage servers, printers, and fax machines, and use of email and instant messaging
applications as well as many others. Computer networks differ in the transmission
medium used to carry their signals, communications protocols to organize network
traffic, the network's size, topology, traffic control mechanism and organizational intent.
The best-known computer network is the Internet.
Advantages of Computer Networking
1. It enhances communication and availability of information.
Networking, especially with full access to the web, allows ways of communication
that would simply be impossible before it was developed. Instant messaging can now allow users to talk in real time and send files to other people wherever they are in the world, which is a huge boon for businesses. Also, it allows access to a vast amount of useful information, including traditional reference materials and timely facts, such as news and current events.
2. It allows for more convenient resource sharing.
This benefit is very important, particularly for larger companies that really need to
produce huge numbers of resources to be shared to all the people. Since the technology involves computer-based work, it is assured that the resources they wanted to get across would be completely shared by connecting to a computer network which their
audience is also using.
3. It makes file sharing easier.
Computer networking allows easier accessibility for people to share their files, which
greatly helps them with saving more time and effort, since they could do file sharing
more accordingly and effectively.
This technology is known to be very flexible, as it gives users the opportunity to
explore everything about essential things, such as software without affecting their
functionality. Plus, people will have the accessibility to all information they need to
get and share.
5. It is an inexpensive system.
Installing networking software on your device would not cost too much, as you are assured that it lasts and can effectively share information to your peers. Also, there is no need to change the software regularly, as mostly it is not required to do so.
6. It increases cost efficiency.
With computer networking, you can use a lot of software products available on the
market which can just be stored or installed in your system or server, and can then be
used by various workstations.
7. It boosts storage capacity.
Since you are going to share information, files and resources to other people, you have
to ensure all data and content are properly stored in the system. With this networking
technology, you can do all of this without any hassle, while having all the space you
need for storage.
Disadvantages of Computer Networking
1. It lacks independence.
Computer networking involves a process that is operated using computers, so people
will be relying more of computer work, instead of exerting an effort for their tasks at
hand. Aside from this, they will be dependent on the main file server, which means
that, if it breaks down, the system would become useless, making users idle.
2. It poses security difficulties.
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.
3. It lacks 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. To deal with these problems, huge networks should have a powerful computer to serve as file server to make setting up and maintaining the network easier.
4. It allows for more presence of computer viruses and malware.
There would be instances that stored files are corrupt due to computer viruses. Thus,
network administrators should conduct regular check-ups on the system, and the
stored files at the same time.
5. Its light policing usage promotes negative acts.
It has been observed that providing users with internet connectivity has fostered
undesirable behavior among them. Considering that the web is a minefield of
distractions—online games, humor sites and even porn sites—workers could be
tempted during their work hours. The huge network of machines could also encourage
them to engage in illicit practices, such as instant messaging and file sharing, instead
of working on work-related matters. While many organizations draw up certain
policies on this, they have proven difficult to enforce and even engendered resentment
from employees.
6. It requires 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.
7. It requires an expensive set-up.
Though computer networks are said to be an inexpensive system when it is already
running, its initial set up cost can still be high depending on the number of computers
to be connected. Expensive devices, such as routers, switches, hubs, etc., can add up
to the cost. Aside from these, it would also need network interface cards (NICs) for
workstations in case they are not built in.
Applications
In a short period of time computer networks have become an indispensable part of
business, industry, entertainment as well as a common-man's life. These applications
have changed tremendously from time and the motivation for building these networks
are all essentially economic and technological.
Initially, computer network was developed for defense purpose, to have a secure
communication network that can even withstand a nuclear attack. After a decade or so,
companies, in various fields, started using computer networks for keeping track of
inventories, monitor productivity, communication between their different branches
offices located at different locations. For example, Railways started using computer
networks by connecting their nationwide reservation counters to provide the facility of
reservation and enquiry from anywhere across the country.
And now after almost two decades, computer networks have entered a new dimension;
they are now an integral part of the society and people. In 1990s, computer network
started delivering services to private individuals at home. These services and motivation
for using them are quite different. Some of the services are access to remote information,
person-person communication, and interactive entertainment. So, some of the
applications of computer networks that we can see around us today are as follows:
Marketing and sales: Computer networks are used extensively in both marketing and
sales organizations. Marketing professionals use them to collect, exchange, and analyze
data related to customer needs and product development cycles. Sales application
includes teleshopping, which uses order-entry computers or telephones connected to order processing network, and online-reservation services for hotels, airlines and so on.
Financial services: Today's financial services are totally depended on computer
networks. Application includes credit history searches, foreign exchange and investment
services, and electronic fund transfer, which allow user to transfer money without going
into a bank (an automated teller machine is an example of electronic fund transfer,
automatic pay-check is another).
Manufacturing: Computer networks are used in many aspects of manufacturing
including manufacturing process itself. Two of them that use network to provide essential services are computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-assisted manufacturing (CAM), both of which allow multiple users to work on a project simultaneously.
Directory services: Directory services allow list of files to be stored in central location
to speed worldwide search operations.
Information services: A Network information service includes bulletin boards and data
banks. A World Wide Web site offering technical specification 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.
Electronic mail: probably it's the most widely used computer network application.
Teleconferencing: Teleconferencing allows conference to occur without the participants
being in the same place. Applications include simple text conferencing (where
participants communicate through their normal keyboards and monitor) and video
conferencing where participants can even see as well as talk to other fellow participants.
Different types of equipment's are used for video conferencing depending on what quality of the motion you want to capture (whether you want just to see the face of other fellow participants or do you want to see the exact facial expression).
Voice over IP: Computer networks are also used to provide voice communication. This kind of voice communication is pretty cheap as compared to the normal telephonic conversation.
Video on demand: Future services provided by the cable television networks may include video on request where a person can request for a particular movie or any clip at any time he wish to see.
Summary:
The main area of applications can be broadly classified into following
categories:
• Scientific and Technical Computing
• Client Server Model, Distributed Processing
• Parallel Processing, Communication Media .
Introduction
In today's digital age, the phrase "worldwide system of computer networks" is synonymous with the Internet, a revolutionary force that has transformed the way we live, work, and communicate. This article delves into the fascinating world of the Internet, tracing its historical roots, explaining its inner workings, and highlighting its profound impact on global society.
The Birth of the Internet
The story of the internet begins in the late 1960s with the development of ARPANET, a U.S. Department of Defense project aimed at creating a decentralized communication network. ARPANET laid the foundation for the modern internet, with its first successful message transmission on October 29, 1969. Over the next few decades, this fledgling network expanded, connecting research institutions and universities.
How the Internet Works
At its core, the internet is a vast network of interconnected computers and devices that communicate using a common set of rules and protocols. The most fundamental protocol is TCP/IP, which governs data transmission and routing. Internet Service Providers (ISPs) play a crucial role by connecting users to the internet and routing their data across the network.
Global Reach and Expansion
The internet's growth has been nothing short of astonishing. What started as a small network in the United States has evolved into a global phenomenon. Today, billions of people around the world are connected to the internet. According to recent statistics, more than half of the world's population now has access to the internet, bridging geographical and cultural divides.
The Internet's Impact on Society
The internet has had a profound impact on virtually every aspect of society. It has revolutionized communication, enabling real-time interactions across continents. It has transformed education, making information and resources more accessible than ever before. In the business world, e-commerce has flourished, changing the way we shop and conduct transactions. Furthermore, social media has reshaped how we connect with others and share our lives.
Challenges and Future Trends
While the internet has brought numerous benefits, it also faces significant challenges. Cybersecurity threats are ever-present, requiring constant vigilance to protect sensitive data. Net neutrality debates continue, raising questions about equal access and fair treatment of data. As we move forward, the internet will continue to evolve with emerging technologies such as 5G, IoT (Internet of Things), and AI playing pivotal roles.
Conclusion
The worldwide system of computer networks, the Internet, has evolved from a humble experiment to a global phenomenon that defines our modern world. Its transformative power continues to shape how we connect, communicate, and conduct business. As we navigate the challenges and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead, it's clear that the internet's impact will only grow stronger, reinforcing its status as an indispensable part of our lives.
In a world that is increasingly interconnected, the worldwide system of computer networks remains one of humanity's most remarkable achievements
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