Network and its Needs

What is a NETWORK?

A set of devices (commonly known as nodes) which is connected by a communication link is known as a network. A node is generally a device (such as computer, printer etc.) which can send and receive data generated by other nodes on the network.

A network must be able to meet certain important characteristics such as performance, reliability and security.

 

Need For Networking

• To share computer files: Networks provide a very effective way to share files with different users. Like in order to share a common file with different departments of an organization, we can place the file on the network so that it can be used by all the departments.
• To share computer peripheral: Network enables us to share certain computer devices with one another which may be very costly/expensive. E.g.-Laser printer etc.
• To enable communication: Networks allow unlike computers to communication with each other. A computer with different operating systems can easily interact with each other through networks.
• To improve communication speed and accuracy: Networks help us to speedily send messages from one place to another.
• To reduce cost of transfer: Computer is usually considered as a cheaper way to transfer data. So with the help of networking we can reduce the cost of transfer.