What is a Computer Network? Definition, Structure, and More

Definition

A computer network consists of several electronic devices connected to each other to exchange and also share information and resources. We could say, therefore, that they are communication systems in which different devices act as transmitter and receiver alternately.

The Internet is an example of a computer network : millions of devices interconnected with each other to communicate and also share resources.

The following elements intervene in a communication system: sender, receiver, message, channel, code and context. In a computer network we have the devices , the means of connection , the structure and also the mode of operation of the networks and the information and shared resources.

Devices Connected to a Computer Network

The devices involved in a networked computer system are divided into:

Network Devices

those that manage access to information and also communication. For example: the router, the modem, an access point, a bridge,the switches, etc.

End-User Devices

those that connect to the network to access information or resources. For example: a computer, a tablet, a mobile phone, a notebook, a smart TV, a printer, a game console, etc.

Means of Connecting Networks

To communicate, the devices are related to each other through connection means. These media can be classified as follows :

Guided Connection Means (consisting of cables)

• Coaxial cable.
• Twisted pair cable (UTP / STP).
• Optical fiber.

Unguided or Wireless Means of Connection

• Radio waves: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
• Infrared waves.
• Microwave oven.

Structure and Operation of Networks

The operation and also structure of computer networks are defined in different standards. The most widespread standard is the TCP / IP model , which is based on the theoretical OSI model.

The structure of a network can be client-server , where the connected devices perform the following functions:

• Server : that offers information or resources.
• Client: that consumes information or resources from one or more servers.

Information and Network Shares

The devices of a computer network can exchange information of all kinds :

• Texts.
• Hypertexts.
• Image.
• Videos.
• Music.
• Others

On the other hand, it is as well conceivable to share resources of different kinds :

• Video or audio streaming services .
• Using a printer.
• Storage space.
• Processing time.
• Applicatons.

Types of Computer Networks

There are different types of computer networks depending on their size or range :

PAN (Personal Area Network)

formed by the devices of a single person. Its range is a few meters.

WPAN (Wireless Personal Area Network)

wireless connection PAN network.

LAN (Local Area Network)

local range, like a building or an airplane, for example. It does not include connections for public use.

WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network)

wireless LAN. They are the most used.

CAN (Campus Area Network)

a high-speed device network that connects local networks in a limited geographic area, such as a university campus, for example. It does not use public connections.

MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)

high-speed network (broadband) that provides coverage to a large but limited geographic area.

WAN (Wide Area Network)

covers a enormous area using satellites, interoceanic cables, fiber optics, etc. Use public media.

VLAN

logical or virtual LAN. It is installed over a physical network with the purpose of increasing performance and security.

Computer Networks Course: Tokyo has the Ideal one for You!

If you want to dedicate yourself to the technology sector, Tokyo has its Cisco Networking Specialist course for you. CCNA Routing & also Switching. This course prepares you to be an expert in installing computer networks .

Know what what is the Cisco CCNA Routing & also Switching Certification? It is a certification that accredits knowledge about installation, configuration, operation and also troubleshooting in data networks based on router and switcher equipment.

There are several CCNA certification job opportunitiesWith this accreditation you will be able to access companies of all kinds such as a network administrator or technician . Thanks to the digital revolution, this specialization is in high demand .

Installation OF Computer Networks: The Agenda And Objectives

The Cisco Network Specialist Tokyo course. CCNA Routing & also Switching offers you a comprehensive, quality training program totally focused on the labor reality of the technology sector. This program is made up of the ensuing didactic modules for example :

• Introduction to networks.
• Routing and Switching Fundamentals.
• Scalable networks.
• Interconnection of networks, and also
• Complementary material: language training.

These modules are designed for you to achieve the following training objectives :

• you learn to configure devices such as routers and switches.
• That you know how to implement and configure redundant and also scalable networks .
• If you are able to run wireless solutions .
• That you can manage WAN networks .