Computer network
Computer Network
A Computer Network (pronounced: kuhm-pyoo-ter net-wurk) is a set of interconnected computing devices that are linked together to facilitate communication and data exchange. The term originates from the English words "computer", referring to a device that computes, and "network", which refers to a complex interconnected system.
Definition
A Computer Network is defined as a collection of interconnected computers and other hardware devices that share resources and information. This includes, but is not limited to, data files, hardware devices like printers, and software applications. The computers in a network can be connected through cables, telephone lines, radio waves, satellites, or infrared light beams.
Types of Computer Networks
There are several types of Computer Networks, each with its own characteristics and uses. These include:
- Local Area Network (LAN)
- Wide Area Network (WAN)
- Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
- Personal Area Network (PAN)
- Virtual Private Network (VPN)
Components of a Computer Network
A Computer Network is composed of several key components, including:
- Nodes: These are the individual devices, such as computers, printers, and servers, that are connected within the network.
- Network Interface Card (NIC): This is a hardware component that allows a device to connect to a network.
- Hub, Switch, and Router: These are devices that connect the nodes in a network and manage data traffic.
- Transmission Media: This refers to the physical or wireless means through which data is transferred within the network.
Related Terms
- Internet: A global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities.
- Intranet: A private network accessible only by an organization's staff.
- Ethernet: A system for connecting a number of computer systems to form a local area network.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Computer network
- Wikipedia's article - Computer network
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski