Internet and E-mail

Computer Networks

There is a simple concept behind using computers for communication. It is "Computer Networking". The combination of term computers and, when you establish a link between them it is known as a computer Network. There is much use in networking computers rather than learning them stand alone.

Advantages in Network

Mainly computer networking has enabled to share resources between computers. When certain computer programs needed for common use are placed in one computer, everyone through networking can use the same programs. Thus, resources need not to be stored in each and every computer, unnecessarily by using the idea of computer networking. The idea of networking is useful as the technology of communication between the computers. As a result technologies like E-mail, Fax messaging, Videophone were invented to this world. Communication through computer networks is much faster and economical.

Disadvantages in Networks

There are problems too which occur due to networked computers. For example, computer viruses can malfunction the operations of software and hardware in a computer. If a computer virus enter into one computer it can spread onto the other computers of the network as well. Here some computers can start to malfunction. Though there are some problems, the effect of advantages of networking is usefully felt therefore man while solving the problems continued in networking computers.

Network Topology

There are many patterns computers can be interconnected to make computer networks. According to the pattern, where many computers can be linked, the advantages of such networks too differ. As per the pattern the way computers in a network exchange information contributes to the technological importance of that network making changes. For example, in some networks two computers can exchange information directly, but in other networks two computers cannot exchange information without going through a third computer.

There are many patterns computers can be connected to a network. These patterns are called Network topology. They are,1. Star Network

                2. Bus Network

                3. Ring Network

The above representation is based on the physical outlook of the networks.

Star Network

Here, all communications are done through a central computer. This computer can be a Host computer or File Server. Here if the central computer ceases to work the network will breakdown. As per present techniques used the communication is done through a device called a Hub. Through the hub any two computers can communicate. As services are provided to many clients in this network, it is called a Client Server System.

Bus Network

Here, each computer can independently work from one another, and therefore it is called Bus Network. Any computer can act as a client or server. Without the control of a third computer, here any two computers can exchange information. This is the main functionality of this network. As such computer resources can be decentralized and equal opportunities can be given to each computer. For this type of activity the Bus Network is most suitable.

Ring Network

Here each computer is connected to two another computers. As such a central computer or File Server is not found in this network. All information communicated flows through all computers; therefore this is not an efficient computer system.

Hierarchical Network

Here many computers are connected to the central Host computer. Again computers and other devices are connected to computers having direct connection with the Host Computer. This is called a hierarchical network, because this network spreads as the broacher of a tree. Here, the computer in the central position is most likely a Mainframe computer. Computer found in the bottom lines are Mini or Microcomputers. These networks are suitable for centralized organizations. As many different computers are found, this network is also known as a Hybrid Network.