WHAT
IS A COMPUTER NETWORK?
The computer system that connects
two or more computers is called a computer network.
When a computer network is built,
the resources of the computers can be commonly used. In building such a
computer network, various communication devices and techniques are used to
connect computers and other devices.
ADVANTAGES
OF COMPUTER NETWORK
Speed
Sharing and transferring files within networks is very rapid,
depending on the type of network. This will save time while maintaining the
integrity of files. It is
very easy to communicate through a network. People can communicate efficiently
using a network with a group of people. They can enjoy the benefit of emails,
instant messaging, telephony, video conferencing, chat rooms, etc.
Costs
The high cost for computers programmes and devices can be
easily reduced when a computer network is built. The reason for this high cost
is that the computer software has to be bought separately for each computer
when the computers are used separately. In computer network, purchasing the
relevant version of computer software, which are designed for computer
networks, and installing it only in one central computer from where it can be
accessed by the other computers in the network can reduce cost. There is no
need spend any money if we use Free and Open source software (FOSS).
Security
Sensitive files and programs on a network can be password
protected. Then the authorized users can only access those files. This is
another important advantage of networking when there are concerns about
security issues. Also each and every user has their own set of privileges to
prevent them accessing restricted files and programs.
This is one of the major advantages of networking computers.
People can find and share information and data because of networking. This is
beneficial for large organizations to maintain their data in an organized
manner and facilitate access for desired people.
Sharing
of Resources
Users can share software within the network easily.
Networkable versions of software are available at considerable savings compared
to individually licensed version of the same software. Therefore large
companies can reduce the cost of buying software by networking their computers.
Another important
advantage of networking is the ability to share hardware. For an example, a
printer can be shared among the users in a network so that there’s no need to
have individual printers for each and every computer in the company. This will
significantly reduce the cost of purchasing hardware.
DISADVANTAGES
OF COMPUTER NETWORKS
Networks (e.g. Star), breakdown of
the main computer can adversely affect the process of the entire computer
system.
*Communication of Date and information
can be disturbed due to the errors of the network system.
* There is a possibility to lose
resources due to the errors of the network system.
*Outsiders may access the network
and rob data and information there.
*The efficiency of the system may go
down due to bottlenecks in the network.
* Sometimes the user may not be able
to access the required resources easily (E.g.: a shared printer being used by
many at the same time).
* Controlling the network is not an
easy task. It demands special computer software and specially trained officers.
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