What is a Computer Network?
A computer network, or often merely a network, is a set of computers and devices interconnected by communication channels that facilitate communication between users and allow users to share resources. Networks can be grouped according to a wide variety of features. A computer network enables the sharing of resources and information between interconnected devices. This article will provide a general overview of some of the models and types, and give an overview of the essential components of a network.
A computer network allows computers to communicate with many other computers and to share resources and information. The “Advanced Research Projects Agency Network” (ARPANET) was designed for use by the US Department of Defense, under the financial support of the Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA | ARPA). It was the world’s first active computer network. The network’s promotion began in 1969, based on plans that started in the 1960s.
Classification of Computer networks
The following methods are commonly used for network classification.
Connection Method
networking cables
One of the main techniques used for network classification is the software and software technology used by these computers to interconnect. For example, optical fiber, wireless LAN, Home PNA, power line communication.
Ethernet uses physical wiring to connect devices. The most commonly used equipment is hubs, switches, bridges, routers.
Wireless LAN wirelessly connects devices. These devices use radio or infrared radiation.
ITU – T G.hn technology creates faster LAN from existing home wiring (coaxial lines, power cables).
Wire Technology
Twisted Pair Wire
computer networking
This is the most widely used media in the field of telecommunications. These are common telephone lines, which combine the two insulated copper wires to transmit voice and data. It is aimed at minimizing the cross-talk between the cables and the electromagnetic field. Transmission speeds range from 2 million to 100 million bits per second.
Coaxial cable
These are widely used in wireless telecommunication systems, office buildings, and LAN systems. These wires are made of copper and aluminum and insulated with insulating media. A conductive layer then encloses it. The purpose of layering thus is to minimize interference and distortion. Transmission speeds range from 200 million to 500 million bits per second.
Fiber optics
These cables are made of thin glass filaments covered with a thin layer of protection. This allows the light to transmit to a shallow distance and high bandwidth. The characteristic feature is that these nuclear fibers are not distorted by electromagnetic radiation. Transmission speed is as high as one trillion bits per second. That is, the optical fiber can be up to 100 times faster than coaxial wires and 1000 times faster for sieve wires.
Wireless technology
Terrestrial microwave
The transmitter and receiver support the ground. This device is very similar to satellite disks. Geographical microwaves use a low Giga frequency range to transmit between work stations approximately 30 miles apart. These microwave contractors are usually installed on buildings and hillsides.
Communication satellites
sattelite technology
Communication satellites are used as a radio transmitting media and are not reflected by the Earth’s atmosphere. These satellites are orbiting an average of 22,000 miles above the equator, and these earth orbit systems are capable of receiving and responding to voice data and audio.
Cellular and PCS systems
It uses several radio communication technologies and is divided into geographical areas. Each area has a low-power transmitter or radio-frequency contact device that responds to calls from one area to another.