The Importance of Computer Networks in Business
Computer networks connect computers and other devices to share information, resources and services. They can be built on wired or wireless connections and can be configured in a variety of network topologies. Networks are today essential to the business. They allow us to communicate more effectively, collaborate with colleagues and perform more efficiently. They also help with data security and accessibility.
Computer networking is a broad field that covers the creation and maintenance of communication networks. It is a combination of electrical engineering, and telecommunications.
The most well-known computer network is the Internet which allows millions of people to connect to and use the same resources at the same time. The network employs a packet-switching model to guide data through an almost infinite number of paths and connections. Each packet contains control information as well as user data. The control information contains the source and destination network address, error detection codes, and sequencing information. The data part of a packet includes the payload.
In a typical network, a central server stores data and manages access by users to crucial resources like printers photocopiers, and other files. The server is protected by firewalls and multifactor authentication systems to ensure that only authorized users have access to it. Keeping all the information centralized on servers also makes it easier for administrators to perform regular data backups and enforce strict network security policies. Additionally, it lets employees to access corporate applications and services no matter their location, for instance video-calling software and document-sharing software.
