Computer Network Basics

Computer Network Basics is an article on computer network, data communications network and is a collection of connecting computer hardware and software. A Computer Network is designed to send and receive electrical signals, electromagnetic waves or other means to transport of data in order to share information, resources and provide services.

Computer Network Basics : Components

As in any process of communication requires a sender, a message and a receiver, a Computer Network also has three basic components. The main purpose for the creation of a computer network is to the share resources and information in distance, ensuring the reliability and availability of information, increase the speed of data transmission and reduce the overall cost of these actions. An example is the Internet, which is a large network of millions of computers located in different parts of the world basically interconnected to share information and resources.

The structure and mode of operation of existing typical computer network can be defined in several standards, the most important and widespread model TCP / IP based model and OSI Model. The latter, each network structure is divided into seven layers with specific functions but in TCP / IP layers they are four in number. There are many layer protocols, which are also governed by their respective standards.
To form a computer network, the required elements are hardware, software and protocols. The physical elements are classified into two groups : end-user devices (hosts) and network devices. The end-user devices including computers, printers, scanners and other elements that provide services directly to the user and the second are those which connects to end-user devices, allowing intercommunication.

The purpose of a computer network is to interconnect the hardware components of a network and therefore mainly the individual computers, also called hosts make services on the network. In all cases, the network card can be considered the primary element, whether it is part of a computer, a switch, a printer or be it the technology.

Computer Network Basics : Software

Network Operating System : allows the interconnection of computers in order to access services and resources. As a computer can not work without an operating system, a computer network can not function without a network operating system. In most cases the network operating system is part of the operating system of servers and clients.

Application software : ultimately, all the elements are used for the user of each computer can use its specific programs and files. This software can be as wide as needed and may include integrated packages, specialized systems, email system etc. The right software in the network operating system is chosen for a function and the necessary protocols allow the servers to create the services that are needed.

Computer Network Basics : Hardware

To create the link between computers and transmission media; i.e. cable network or physical media for wired and infrared or radio frequencies for wireless networks), it is necessary to do an intervention by using a network card, with which they can send and receive data packets to and from other computers in Computer Network, using a protocol for communication and converting the data into a format that can be transmitted. Note that each network card is assigned a unique identifier by its manufacturer, known as MAC address (Media Access Control), which consists of 48 bits (6 bytes ). This identifier allows directing the data traffic of the network from sender to receiver proper.

Computer Network Basics : Conclusion

We wrote a very basic article on Computer Network. Interested users can search with the used terminology within this website for detailed article on each topic.