What Is Computer Networking and How Does It Work?

 

computer networks

Computer networking can be a confusing topic to some, but it’s actually quite simple once you get the hang of it. Computer networks allow different computers and devices to communicate with each other, so today we’re going to answer the question, what is computer networking? 

We’ll also go over how computer networking works, as well as several examples of its everyday use and applications. By the end of this article you should have a solid understanding of what computer networking is and how it works, so read on!

What is Computer Networking:

Computer networks are a series of interconnected computing devices that share resources with one another. These shared resources can be anything from files to printers to the internet connection. 

Networking allows these devices to communicate with each other and have access to these shared resources. The network provides the connections, software and hardware that allow this communication to take place. So how does computer networking work?

How Does Computer Networking Work?

Networking allows computers to communicate with each other. Networks are made up of individual computers, called nodes, those are connected through a series of connections. 

These connections form a network and allow nodes to exchange data and share resources. There are four common types of networks: peer-to-peer, client/server, the Internet and intranets. 

Peer-to-peer networks have the most direct communication between nodes; they're great for sharing files or playing games with friends.

The Different Types of Networks:

There are two main categories of networks: LANs and WANs. A LAN is a local area network that connects computers and devices on one's private premises, such as an office building or a home. 

Computers on a LAN can share resources like printers and data files. The entire network typically runs off one high-speed Internet connection. A WAN is a wide area network that covers much larger distances than a LAN. 

For example, all offices in one company might be connected via a WAN. Connections between buildings may use telephone lines or fiber optic cables.

The Benefits of Computer Networking:

Networking your computers allows you to share files, printers, and other resources. It also provides a mechanism for sharing Internet connections, so that when one networked machine goes online, the others can access the Internet too. 

When you set up a home or office network you'll need to make some decisions: how many PCs will be on your network? Which operating systems will they be running? Will they have Ethernet cards (the most common type of network interface card)? What type of data cabling do you want to use in your building? Do all of the machines need to be on at once? 

The Different Protocols Used in Computer Networking:

There are many different protocols that are used in computer networking, with each being designed for a different type of network.

• TCP/IP: This protocol was initially developed by DARPA in the 1970s and has been improved over the years to become one of the most popular protocols in use today. 

It is mainly used on public networks like those found on college campuses or at libraries, but it can also be used on private networks such as those created by businesses.

The Future of Computer Networking:

Networking has changed a lot over the years and continues to change. Networking can be any type of communication with one or more computers, including Internet connections, data transfers and file sharing. 

The first basic network was developed in 1962 by J.C.R. Licklider, who predicted that computers would someday be connected around the world to create what we now know as the internet. 

Computers were simply wired together for a shared connection, but eventually separate dedicated networks were built between different companies and institutions. 

Today, networking refers to an entire industry that has grown up around the internet, specializing in services such as high-speed communications lines between offices and equipment sales. 

How computer networking works is mostly determined by the protocols (rules) used on each individual network.

Conclusion:

It's time for you to learn about how computer networks work. What are they, and why do we need them? Well, a network is a group of computers that share data with each other - think of them as being like friends. Computers can talk to one another just like people can talk to each other, and they will all share the same information.