What Is Computer Network?

The term “computer network” is used for interconnected systems. They are used to share information, programs, and resources. A computer network can be divided into several different types. These types are LAN, WAN, and Storage Area Network. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to know more about them before making your next purchase.

LAN

A local area network (LAN) interconnects computers in a local area. This area may be a home, office building, university campus, or lab. On the other hand, a vast area network spans a larger geographic area, usually through leased telecommunications circuits.

A LAN can support both client and server computing systems. Client computers connect to a central computer that stores are operating systems and other resources. The LAN allows data to be transferred to and from other connected nodes. Data transfer rates can range from one byte to ten gigabytes per second. The number of computers connected to a LAN will determine the size of the network. Different LANs have different topologies and different transmission media.

WAN

With data increasing at breakneck speeds, WAN setups must also keep up with these exponential changes. The proliferation of cloud applications is straining the current networks, requiring network operators to optimize their setups to accommodate multiple solutions simultaneously. This requires adjusting the network architecture to allocate bandwidth volumes correctly and maintain performance thresholds.

For example, a bank’s branch offices or ATMs are often connected through a WAN. Some of these branches may be located in different U.S. states or abroad, so the WAN connects them securely. Employees are also connected using a WAN. WAN technology can also be used for the world’s largest computer network, the internet.

SAN

A SAN uses a network of storage devices to share information. These devices are often connected through Fibre Channel, a high-speed networking technology. More extensive data centers have almost exclusively implemented this network technology because of the need for high-bandwidth storage solutions. These facilities are usually equipped with full-time staff members dedicated to managing storage.

A SAN allows users to share storage among several computers. It also facilitates data sharing and backup. Its components include switches, controllers, disks, and tape drives. It is typically made up of two nodes (servers): the host server and storage devices. Storage devices are connected to a SAN by a fabric of cables or switches.

Storage Area Network (SAN)

A SAN is a computer network that allows multiple hosts to share storage and data. It provides built-in redundancy and allows for faster data transfers. SAN technology can reduce the number of storage devices in an organization and lower the cost of ownership. This type of computer network is similar to a local area network (LAN).

SANs are typically implemented with Fibre Channel technology. This technology is used in network storage because it can support extremely high data rates. SAN devices communicate with each other through a particular type of switch called a Fibre Channel switch. The switch serves as a connectivity point between devices in a network and enables them to use their full bandwidth.

Server-Client model

A client-server network is a computer network that has two sets of computer software. One set is used for communicating with the computer system, and the other is used to store and retrieve data. In this type of network, the server is generally more powerful than the client because it handles many requests simultaneously. In this type of network, the type of computer system that the client uses does not matter.

The client-server model of computer networking is an increasingly common model for computer networks. It uses server hardware devices and client software to distribute the workload. These systems can be used on a local network or over the internet. Examples of client-server systems include email, network printers, and the World Wide Web.

Scalability

Scalability is an essential characteristic of computer networks. It allows for the expansion or reduction of computing capacity as the number of users increases or decreases. This property is desirable for many applications, including websites, processes, and business models. Scalable computer networks may begin with a single node, but more nodes may be added as the need for more processing power increases. This type of scalability is often sold to high-growth companies, who will need the capability to expand as their business grows.

Many factors go into scalability, but one of the most important factors is the ability of a computer network to scale as needed. When a computer network is scalable, it can scale to meet the growing needs of its users while maintaining the quality of service. For example, a search engine must scale as the number of users and objects it indexes increases.

Types

There are several different types of computer networks. Local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs) exist. LANs are used to connect computers in a single building. WANs use wireless infrastructure or optical fiber connections to link devices together. WANs are a great way to connect computers across a large geographical area.

LANs are the most common type of computer network. They are used for sharing files and business documents among computers within an organization. A significant component of a LAN network is the Layer2 Ethernet Switch.