A computer network is a group of computer systems and other computing hardware devices that are linked together through communication channels to facilitate communication and resource-sharing among a wide range of users. Networks are commonly categorized based on their characteristics.
Application of Networks
- Facilitate communication via email, video conferencing, instant messaging, etc.
- Enable multiple users to share a single hardware device like a printer or scanner
- Enable file sharing across the network
- Allow for the sharing of software or operating programs on remote systems
- Make information easier to access and maintain among network users
There are many types of networks, including:
- Local Area Networks (LAN)
- Personal Area Networks (PAN)
- Home Area Networks (HAN)
- Wide Area Networks (WAN)
- Campus Networks
- Metropolitan Area Networks (MAN)
- Enterprise Private Networks
- Internetworks
- Backbone Networks (BBN)
- Global Area Networks (GAN)
- The Internet
