What is Computer Networking?

Computer networking is when two or more computing devices/nodes exchange, share or transmit data over a common network, either through a wired or wireless connection. In order to send data across each other, these devices use a set of rules known as communication protocols. These protocols determine the way in which these devices communicate, its physical layout and how it manages or regulates traffic over the connection. Computer networks are responsible for all areas of business, entertainment & education, including online research, shopping, video & audio sharing, live-streaming, the internet & social media networks. Without computer networking, all these systems wouldn’t exist.

Computer networking falls under two general structures: 

• Client-server architecture: where the server device hosts, distributes and operates the majority of the resources and services for the clients. The clients’ devices, however, cannot perform the same duties as the host, and can only communicate with each other.

• Peer-to-peer architecture: where the devices have the exact same privileges and act as equal with the same duties. Each device within the network can act as both the client & server, and share the same resources together.

Benefits of computer networking include: 

• The ability to store massive capacities of data & information

• Reliable security & procedures protected through user authorisation

• Allows users to conveniently communicate & distribute resources and files

Computer networking comprises four commonly & widely used network types, these include: 

• Local Area Network (LAN): connects devices over a short distance that are all within one physical location, commonly used to share files, data & resources. These are used by relatively small to medium sized organisations e.g., schools, hospitals, and offices.

• Wide Area Network (WAN): connects multiple LANs across wide & long distances, from several geographical areas. These are commonly used for large organisations to connect their numerous sites, employees, suppliers & information centres. The Internet itself is a WAN that connects billions of users worldwide.

• Service-Provider Network: provides connections to several users & organisations through operational WANs, by delivering cellular and Internet services & connectivity to their users e.g., Optus & Telstra.

• Enterprise Network: uses both LANs & WANs in order to function and fulfil day-to-day challenging & important business conditions and requirements e.g., Dell, HP, Cisco.

Reliable Computers makes it easy for you to configure and operate on a wireless network within the confines of your office facilities.  Check out how we can transform / your existing wired network or implement a brand new wireless connection: