Computer Networks

View Assign Share Link Report

Computer Networks

This lesson aligns with NGSS PS4.C

Introduction

A computer network is a system that connects two or more networks of computers or other devices to allow the transfer and sharing of information. The extensive use of electromagnetic waves in the process of such connectivity is significant. You will learn more about what computer networks are and how it works in developing connection in this digital world.

What Are Computer Networks?

Computer networks transfer and share data to two or more computing devices. Computing devices are electronic machines designed to receive, store, analyze, process and publish data or other information. So it could be a mobile phone or any server connected with the help of wires like optic fiber or even wirelessly.

Data sharing is facilitated via a communication protocol. Protocol means the way the data is formatted and processed. The communication protocol can be TCP/IP, Simple mail transfer protocol, or Hypertext protocol.

These networks come in a variety, from single-building local area networks (LANs) to wide area networks (WANs) for large areas or entire continents.

What are Computer Network Structures?

Computer networks have different structures, but two common types are:

1. Client-server network:

This structure connects computers (clients) to a central server. Clients request services or resources from servers, and servers process these requests. This type of networking is used in businesses and services such as Internet websites.

2. Peer-to-peer network:

In this type of network, all computers are connected without a central server. Each computer can be a client and server and share resources directly. Peer-to-peer networking is used for file sharing in small local networks.

Role Of Electromagnetic Waves in Computer Networking

Electromagnetic waves have a significant impact on computer networks in various ways.

1. Wireless network:

Electromagnetic waves, particularly radio waves and microwaves, form the foundation of wireless transmission. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular networks, and satellite transmissions all depend on these radio waves. Wireless networks give you better flexibility when attaching devices to the web.

2. Transmission of data:

Electromagnetic waves enable high-speed data transmission through optical fiber cables. Fiber optic transmissions help light transmit data at high speeds over long spans. This technology shapes the backbone of many long-distance high-speed Internet relations.

3. Electromagnetic Interference (EMI):

Electromagnetic waves are manipulated for communication, but they can result in interference. EMI can interfere with network signals and cause data transmission errors. Network equipment and cabling must be shielded to minimize the effects of external electromagnetic interference.

4. Electromagnetic spectrum allocation:

Government organizations allocate parts of the electromagnetic spectrum to different communication technologies. This assignment affects the availability and configuration of different types of wireless networks, such as Wi-Fi and cellular networks.

5. Data Security:

To protect wireless networks, it is important to understand how electromagnetic waves propagate. Encryption and frequency hopping are used to protect data from interception.

6. Spectral efficiency:

Efficient use of the electromagnetic spectrum is essential for network operators. Techniques such as multiplexing and modulation help to maximize the use of the available spectrum for data transmission.

Computer Network and Challenges

Computer networks face several challenges, including:

1. Cybersecurity:

Defending networks from cyber attacks, data breaches, and unauthorized entry is a lasting challenge. Network security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption are essential.

2. Scalability:

Network traffic growths, the network must be competent to scale to adjust more appliances and users. This needs efficient network design and management.

3. Reliability:

Network failure can lead to significant losses. Ensuring high availability through redundancy and fault tolerance is a key issue.

4. Bandwidth Management:

The increasing demand for data-intensive applications such as streaming and cloud services requires efficient bandwidth management. Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms help prioritize traffic.

5. Interoperability:

Networks often consist of different devices and technologies. It is difficult to ensure that these components work seamlessly together, especially in complex environments.

6. Network architecture:

Choosing the right network architecture for the organization's needs can be difficult. Decisions such as whether to use a centralized or decentralized approach can significantly impact.

7. Mobility:

With the advent of mobile devices, networks must support roaming and seamless connectivity as users move between different access points.

8. Emerging Technologies:

The rapid evolution of network technologies such as 5G, Internet of Things and edge computing creates challenges in terms of integrity and security.

9. Network Management:

Effective monitoring, configuration and troubleshooting of your network is very important. Network management tools and practices are constantly evolving.

10. Regulatory Compliance:

Networks must comply with various regulations related to data privacy, cyber security and telecommunications. These regulations are complex and subject to change.

Summary

Fundamentally, computer networks depend on data transmission, which is created likely by the propagation of electromagnetic waves.
These waves perform as the basis for wired and wireless transmission technologies, switching the way we connect and share data in the digital period.
Understanding and using these waves has made possible the development of diverse and innovative network technologies.

Related Worksheets: