The Benefits of Computer Networks

Computer networks allow the sharing and centralized management of information, resources and applications across a variety of devices in a scalable, secure fashion. Computer networks are an integral component of modern society and offer many benefits, including improved communication and collaboration as well as lower costs, enhanced safety, and increased access to information and resources.

Nodes and links are the two primary components of a network. Nodes are network devices, such as printers, computers and file servers that communicate with one another using the set of standard rules called communication protocols. Links connect these nodes with each other via wired, optical or wireless connections. A laptop that is connected to a network in the local area using Wi-Fi is a node and links. Network switches and routers act as traffic police, directing data traffic to their intended destination efficiently.

A wide-area network (WAN) uses www.boardroomco.net gateways and bridges to connect various local area networks. Like a LAN however, a WAN is connected to the Internet and other global networks of communications. Students in Florida, for example, can teleconference on their workstations with peers in Tokyo because of the network called a WAN.

Computer networks simplify work processes and encourage collaboration and engagement in the workplace. For instance, employees can save files to the server, which is regularly backed-up on a regular basis, instead of sending documents back and forth, which can result in lost files. They can also access the standard versions of employee or customer manuals on the network. This ensures consistency and accuracy.