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The Basics of Computer Networking
A network is a group of things that are connected together. In a computer network, the things that are connected are computers, of course. A computer network can be as small as two computers but there is no maximum size, and many networks have hundreds or thousands of computers.
There are three main reasons for connecting computers in a network:
Share information
Share resources
Centralized control
Usually, the connections between computers in a network are made using physical wires or cables however, some connections are wireless, using radio waves or infrared signals the generic term node or host refers to any device on a network. Data transfer rate is speed with which data is moved from one place on a network to another since data transfer rate is a key issue in computer networks.
Some Common terms to all Networks are:
Clients
Server
Workstation
Network interface card (NIC)
Network operating system (NOS)
Host
Node
Shared resource
Topology
Connectivity device
Protocol
Addressing
Transmission media
Basic Network Hardware
Transceivers, Repeaters, Hubs etc
Type of Hubs
Passive hub, Active hub, Switch, Bridge,
Router, Gateway etc
5 important factors to consider while selecting a Backbone Network :
Throughput,
Network cost,
Type of application,
Ease of network management,
Compatibility with current and future technologies
Thus, Computer network management is a purely technical function. In a world where connectivity is the key, expertise in networking can take you places.
The Career Opportunities in Computer Networking are
Network Administration
Network Technicians
Service Technicians
Network Programmers and Analysts
Network Managers
Network Security