Computer networks permit sharing and central management of applications, resources and information across many devices in a secure and scalable way. Computer networks are an integral part of our society today and offer many benefits, such as improved collaboration and communication as well as reduced costs, enhanced safety, and increased access to data and resources.
Networks are made up of two primary elements, links and nodes. Nodes are networked devices like printers, computers, and file servers. They are able to communicate with each other with each other using a set of rules known as the communication protocol. Links connect these nodes with optical https://boardroomco.net/ or wired connections. A laptop that connects to a local network via Wi-Fi can be described as a node and is a link. Network switches and routers serve as traffic police, directing data traffic to their intended destination efficiently.
A wide-area network (WAN) uses bridges and gateways to connect a variety of local area networks. A WAN is different from a local area network (LAN), is connected to global communication networks as well as the Internet. Students in Florida, for example can join teleconferences on their computers with colleagues in Tokyo thanks to a connected WAN.
Computer networks aid in streamlining processes and foster a more active and collaborative work environment. For example employees can save files to servers that are regularly backed-up on a regular basis, instead of emailing documents back and forth, which can result in lost files. Users can also access the standard versions of customer or employee manuals via the network, which ensures consistency and accuracy.