Computer Awareness Part 5-Computer Networks-Types & Functions

A computer network can be defined as a set of computers sharing resources located on or provided by network nodes. The computers communicate with each other by using common communication protocols over digital interconnections. These interconnections consist of telecommunication network technologies, based on physically wired, optical, and wireless radio-frequency methods that may be arranged in many types of network topologies.

The nodes of a computer network may include:

• Personal computers
• Servers
• Networking hardware
• Other specialised or general-purpose hosts

You may also like to read, Computer Awareness Part 3-History of computers for All Bank Exams

These nodes are recognized by hostnames and network addresses. Hostnames serve as memorable labels for the nodes, rarely changed after initial assignment. Network addresses serve for locating and identifying the nodes by communication protocols such as the Internet Protocol.

The Computer Knowledge or Awareness section of the major Bank exams frequently invite questions on Computer Networking forms. Hence, it is a crucial topic to prepare.

In this article, we will discuss in detail about the different types of Computer networks, their definition and functions along with the different types of node devices.

What are the types of Computer Networking?

Networking can be classified into three types:

1. Types of Computer Networks
2. Topology
3. Interpreters
4. Types of Computer Networks

There are five main types of Computer Networks:

1. LAN (Local Area Network)  

It includes cables, access points, switches, routers, and other components that help devices to connect to internal servers, web servers, and other LANs through wide area networks. It is inexpensive and uses Ethernet or Token-ring technology. In it, two or more personal computers can be connected through wires or cables acting as nodes. Transfer of data is fast. In general, there are two types of LANs: client/server LANs and peer-to-peer LANs.

2. PAN (Personal Area Network)

It is the smallest computer network. In it, devices may be connected through Bluetooth or other infra-red enabled devices. It has a connectivity range of upto 10 metre and can cover an area of upto 30 feet. It is a computer network for interconnecting electronic devices within an individual person’s workspace.

3. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)

It is a network that can be connected within a city, like a cable TV Connection. It has a higher range and can be in the form of Ethernet, ATM, Token-ring and FDDI. This type of network can be used to connect citizens with the various Organisations.

4. WAN (Wide Area Network)

WAN is a computer network spanning regions, countries, or even the world. Telephonic lines are also connected through WAN and it is mostly used by Government Organisations to manage data and information. The Internet may be considered the biggest WAN in the world.

5. VPN (Virtual Private Network)

A virtual private network (VPN) network is constructed by using public wires to connect to a private network. Applications running across a VPN may benefit from the functionality, security, and management of the private network. It provides access to resources inaccessible on the public network and is typically used for telecommuting workers.

There are a number of systems which enable you to create networks using the Internet as a medium for transporting data

These systems use encryptions and other security mechanisms to ensure only authorized users can access

Network Topologies

Given below are the eight types of Network Topologies:

Network Device

Discussed below are a few important network devices from the exam point of view:

Conclusion

All the information given above will help you prepare yourself in properly understanding Computer Networks to solve questions for the Computer Knowledge section in the Bank exams. To perfect this topic, you can also take Mock Tests to check your progress and more.

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