Network and Communication

Networks and communication involve connecting different systems and devices to share data and information. This setup includes hardware like computers, routers, switches, and modems, as well as software protocols that manage how data flows between these devices.

Protocols such as TCP/IP and HTTP are essential for communication between devices. They set the rules for how data is exchanged, ensuring a common connection.

Advancements in technology have led to the creation of complex communication networks, like the Internet. The Internet has transformed how we communicate and access information. It has made it easier for people to connect, work more efficiently, and find information and resources quickly.

What is A Network?

A network is a set of devices connected by communication links. A network is simply two or more computers that are linked together. A node can be a computer, printer, or any other device capable of sending and receiving data generated by other nodes on the network.

Networks can be classified into several types including Local Area Networks, Wide Area Networks, Metropolitan Area Networks, and wireless networks such as Wi-Fi and cellular networks.

Network Criteria

A network must meet the following network criteria:

• Performance – It is measured by transit time and response time also depends on users, medium, hardware, and software.
• Reliability – reliability is measured by the frequency of failure.
• Security – Security protects data from unauthorized access.

Risks of Network Computing

The security of a computer network is challenged every day by:

• Equipment malfunctions
• System failures
• Computer hackers
• Virus attacks

Note: Equipment failures and system failures may caused natural disasters such as floods, storms, or fires, and electrical disturbances.

Categories of Networks

It is categorized into three types: LAN, MAN, WAN. Into which categories of network falls is determined by its size, its ownership, the distance it covers, and its physical architecture.

LAN(Local Area Network)

Local Area Network is generally privately owned that links the devices in a single office, building, or campus. Its size is limited to a few kilometres. It is designed to allow resources to be shared between personal computers or workstations. In general a given LAN will use only one type of transmission medium. The most common LAN topologies are bus, ring, and star.

Uses of LAN

A Local Area Network(LAN) has many uses, including:

• Resource Sharing: A Local Area Network allows devices such as computers, printers, and storage devices, to share resources and access them from any device that is connected to the network.
• Data Exchange: A Local Area Network provides a high-speed communication channel for the exchange of data between different devices on the network.
• Internet Access: A Local Area Network provide internet access to all devices that is connected to the same network.
• Gaming: A Local Area Network allows multiple users to play multiplayer games over the network.
• File Sharing: A Local Area Network enables the sharing of files and documents between multiple devices on the same network.
• Backup and Recovery: A Local Area network can provide backup and recovery services for data stored on network devices.
• Centralized Management: A LAN allows centralized management of network resources, making it easier to monitor and manage the network.
• Enhanced Productivity: A LAN can improve productivity by allowing multiple users to access and share resources, collaborate on projects, and exchange information more efficiently.

MAN(Metropolitan Area Network)

It is designed to extend over an entire city. A company can use MAN to connect the LANs in all its offices throughout a city. Maybe wholly owned and operated by a private company or it may be service provided by a public company (local telephone company).

Uses of MAN

MAN refers to Metropolitan Area Network, it is a type of network that connects users with computer resources in a geographic region larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN. Some common uses of a MAN are:

• Data and resource sharing among different locations in a city or metropolitan area.
• It is used to connect different LAN in a city or metropolitan area.
• It is used to delivering broadband services such as internet access, telephony and video conferencing.
• Providing centralized data processing and storage facilities.
• Supporting real-time data and video applications.
• It is used to connect remote offices to the main corporate network.

WAN(Wide Area Network)

Wide Area Network provides long-distance transmission of data over a country, a continent, or even the world wide. It is used to connects all the company's computers and devices, allowing them to share information and resources internally.

Uses of WAN

• It is used to connect remote locations, such as branch offices and telecommuters, to the main office or headquarters.
• It is used to sharing the resources such as printers and servers among multiple locations.
• It is used to facilitating, communication and collaboration between employees, customers and partners of the company.
• It is used to providing remote access to business applications and data..
• It is used to delivering internet access, VPN (Virtual Private Network) services and other managed network services.
• Enabling the transfer of large data files and multimedia content.

Uses of  Network and Communication

Network and communication systems play a crucial role in many areas of modern life, and they have a wide range of uses, including:

• Data transmission: The transfer of data, such as files, images, and video, between computers and other devices.
• Remote access: Enabling employees to access company resources, such as applications and data, from remote locations.
• E-commerce: Facilitating online transactions and commerce, such as online shopping and banking.
• Telecommuting: Allowing employees to work from home or other remote locations using network and communication systems.
• Teleconferencing: Enabling real-time audio and video communication between individuals or groups in different locations.
• Resource sharing: Sharing resources such as printers, scanners, and storage devices among multiple computers and users.
• Online gaming: Enabling multiplayer gaming experiences and connecting players from around the world.
• Cloud computing: Providing access to shared computing resources and applications over the internet.
• Social networking: Connecting people through social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter.
• IoT (Internet of Things): Connecting and communicating with smart devices and other IoT-enabled products.

These are just a few examples of the many uses of network and communication systems in today's digital world.

Issues of Network and Communication

There are several issues that can arise in a network and communication environment, which can negatively impact the performance and reliability of these systems. Some common issues are:

• Network congestion: Overloading of the network due to high traffic volume, leading to slow performance and dropped packets.
• Security threats: Viruses, malware, hacking and other security breaches can compromise network and data security.
• Interference: Interference from other devices and signals can negatively impact network performance, causing dropped packets and slow speeds.
• Latency: Delays in data transmission due to long distances or congested network links.
• Compatibility issues: Different devices and software platforms may not be compatible with each other, leading to connectivity problems.
• Configuration errors: Incorrect configuration of network devices and software can result in connectivity issues and reduced performance.
• Outdated hardware and software: Outdated network components can cause compatibility issues, reduce performance and increase security risks.
• Scalability issues: The network may not be able to handle increasing demand, leading to performance degradation and network downtime.
• Reliability and availability: Network outages, hardware failures, and other reliability and availability issues can impact the functioning of the network.

Advantages

• Information Sharing - Authorized users can use computers on the network to access and share data. Use in group projects for share data among all the team members.
• Hardware Sharing - Devices that are connected to the network can be shared between multiple users. For example one printer that is connected to the network are shared between multiple users.
• Software Sharing - If many users want to use a single paid software then Instead of purchasing and installing that software on each computer , it can be installed on the server. And all the users can able to use that software from that location.
• Collaborative Environment - It provide common environment for all the users where all .

Disadvantages

• Security Risks: Networks can be effected by cyber-attacks, unauthorized access, and data leakage.
• Cost: Maintaining a network can be expensive. Because hardware (like routers, switches, and cables) and software (like security and management tools) that is used in network communication are vary expensive.
• Performance Issues: Network performance can be affected by high traffic, and slow data transfer speeds.
• Privacy : With increased data sharing over networks, there are heigh chance to protect data . Users personal information may be stolen by someone if any protection algorithm is not applied.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is required to ensure network reliability and performance. This includes software updates, hardware replacements, which can be time-consuming and costly.

Conclusion

In summary, networking and communication are dynamic for connecting computers using methods like infrared signals, radio waves, and satellites. Protocols have been developed to standardize message formats and exchanges, ensuring systems communicate reliably and efficiently. These advancements have transformed data exchange and management, improving connectivity, efficiency, and global access to information.