Computers and other devices are part of a computer network that allows them to communicate and share data effectively. Every productivity tool, including entertainment, depends on computer networks that run in the background. Want to know more about computer networking? Read on to find out the essential components of a computer network and how they work.
What is computer networking?
Typically, computer networking connects computers and devices to share data and resources. Devices and computers on a network use standardised protocols to communicate and exchange data. The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model defines these protocols.
Computer networking: How does it work?
Computer networking functions with the help of a system that includes links and nodes. These form the central architecture of a computer network. A link is a wireless or a physical connection that creates communication within a specific network. Whereas, a node represents a router or a computer that belongs to the network.
Nodes such as switches, hubs, and modems are called DCE (data communication equipment). And, DTE (data terminal equipment) represents the nodes such as terminals, printers, and computers.
Regardless of the different types of equipment and nodes that work on a network, they communicate through a standardised protocol called the OSI model. For the network to work efficiently, protocols are important. Protocols allow different types of devices to connect quickly and easily.
DHCP, TCP/IP, and HTTP are some of the popular protocols you will find around. The OSI model has seven different layers. Each layer can use any one of these kinds of protocols.
Let’s understand how computers and devices on a network work together. Suppose you want to connect your laptop to a school or workplace network to use a printer. The printer and your laptop on the network represent DTE. If you use a Wi-Fi connection to establish communication between the laptop and printer, the Wi-Fi signal represents the link.
Moreover, the different types of network hubs and switches that manage communication between the printer and laptop on the network represent DCE. The standardized protocol defined by the OSI model is the language these devices on the network use to communicate with each other.
Computer networks: How they function
Typically, computer networks function in different ways. However, they all work together to facilitate data sharing and secure communication between devices.
In an office setup, different people use a computer network to access and work with the same data. The computer network allows employees to access and share the same data by collaborating with each other.
The use of a computer network changes with requirements. Suppose you want to share the network resources, other than accessing files. In that case, you can use the computer network to share printers and internet access.
Moreover, a computer network can combine these functions to meet the needs of users and the construction of the network.
Computer networks: Key components
Every computer network relies on key components to enable data sharing and communication between connected devices. Here are the components that form a computer network.
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Network devices or nodes
As said earlier, network devices or nodes are the devices that are connected to a computer network directly. For example, computers and printers. Whenever you connect a computer to a school or office network, the computer network identifies the computer as a network device.
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Router
A router functions as a DCE node. It establishes a connection between the switches on a computer network. A router helps to connect devices on separate networks or create a large network. For instance, a router helps create a connection between your computer network and the internet.
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Switch
A switch functions as a DCE node, too. A switch is responsible for carrying out communications among network devices. Communications within a network break into smaller segments called packets. A switch directs these packets to their desired destinations.
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Servers
Servers are specialized computers that run applications or store data. Devices on a network, such as computers or laptops, can access a server to share data. However, not every computer network needs a server. A P2P (peer-to-peer) or small computer network does not require a server.
Network topology: What is it?
A network topology decides how the devices on a network should be arranged. Consider a network topology as a blueprint needed to construct and lay out a computer network. Depending on the specific requirements of a computer network, different topologies will offer different properties.
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Ring topology
In this type of topology, every device on the network will connect with two different devices. This kind of linking appears like a ring shape. As such, data flows in both directions within the ring. But if a node fails to respond, the communication cannot pass through that node. This results in a failed network.
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Bus topology
With this topology, each node on a network will connect to a unique data cable known as the bus. It carries the data, and all the nodes will receive the same signal. In case a node fails, the flow of information does not stop.
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Star topology
In this type of topology, every node connects to a central device or server. The best part of a star topology is that every node can receive and send requests independently and efficiently. Star topology allows the information to flow through individual network connections efficiently.
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Mesh topology
A mesh topology establishes multiple connections between multiple devices. It ensures various data paths between nodes. Because the mesh topology is decentralized, it means that a single device failure cannot impact the whole network. Besides, the mesh topology can find effective routes for information and data rather than depending on a single path.
Computer network and its types
Computer networking is a complex, vast field that uses several types of networks. However, most computer networks have four categories.
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LAN (local area network)
A LAN or local area network comes with geographic restrictions. It means that the network covers a single area such as a building or an office. Almost every business uses a LAN for communication between devices within the office.
Also, network engineers can use a LAN to test the efficiency of a large network.
A LAN can work well with a small network. But they are equally effective when connected to a large network like the internet. With this feature, users can share an internet connection across the network.
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WAN (wide area network)
A WAN or wide area network is perfect for large organizations that use an enterprise computer network. WN can cover an extensive geographical area. It can connect resources and networks across countries, states, and towns. WANs can transfer data at lightning speeds over distances without compromising security.
In general, a WAN can connect small LANs. But it can connect to any network virtually across distances.
The recent version of WAN is called software-defined WAN (SD-WAN). It replaces hardware components commonly used in WAN for complete optimization. The software enables network resource virtualization, allowing for real-time optimizations. Besides, network engineers can use SD-WAN to build efficient, fast networks that could be managed from a specific location.
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Cloud networks
It is another type of network that works wonders for enterprises. They are different from WAN or LAN. Public or private cloud servers host cloud networks.
There is no need to manage network resources on-site. Instead, dedicated cloud servers manage them. Third-party cloud computing service providers manage network maintenance and other operations. It allows businesses and users to prioritize network performance without worrying about infrastructure upkeep.
An important aspect of cloud networking is its flexibility to scale network resources as per requirement.
In a cloud network, software automation instantly allocates extra server capacity when the demand is high. In case of LAN, if a new server is required, the process of installation can take several days or weeks. Businesses can adapt to the changing demands when using a cloud network.
A cloud network integrates into hybrid networks. As such, it allows a WAN or LAN to manage some resources in the cloud while maintaining certain functions locally.
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Service provider network
Most WANs use service provider networks, delivering core transmission functions and supporting high-bandwidth applications. Some examples include data carriers, internet service providers, and big telecom companies.
Service provider computer networks offer both wireless and wired computer networks. Furthermore, they can provide internet access to small applications, ideal for a small business or home use.
Computer network architecture and its types
Although computer network architecture has variations, there are only two categories.
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Client-server architecture
The network computer nodes in this type of computer network architecture act as clients or servers.
Servers handle centralized tasks and store data. Moreover, a server can store files that multiple clients can share and access easily. A DNS server is another kind of server that directs website requests to the correct web address.
Additionally, a server can run software and applications efficiently. A good example can be a mail server that you find in enterprises. It runs a particular mail server program that allows client computers to access the mail through that server.
An important part of a client-server architecture is that every client request moves through a server. That way, the clients do not have to share data or interact with each other directly.
If a server stores a document, two employees can work on that document and can access it. However, the employees do not have to share the same file with each other.
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Peer-to-peer architecture
In a P2P (peer-to-peer) network, the nodes act as both clients and servers. And, they share equal privileges.
In this type of computer network, clients can share data and resources without the need for a server. Apart from that, the clients can share the memory and processing power resources in a peer-to-peer network.
A P2P network is decentralized because there is no central server that handles traffic and receives requests between clients.
There are several file-sharing networks that use a peer-to-peer architecture. The best part is that the network eliminates the need for central file storage. Also, the network dynamically adjusts itself based on demand and user count.
Segregated computing power and content delivery are common examples of a peer-to-peer network architecture.
Threats in computer network security and how to resolve them
A computer network must provide fast, efficient connections to enable users to share data and resources effectively. Regardless of that, cybersecurity should be the topmost priority when it comes to protecting network and data resources. Computer networks need innovative defense measures to counter common attack methods, including small individual threats and computer network operations.
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Firewalls
Firewalls keep track of the traffic that travels in and out of a network. A firewall has a predetermined set of instructions. As a result, the firewall can decide whether to block the traffic or allow it.
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Access control
The set of tools and policies that allow or restrict access to a computer network is called access control. Access control protocols quarantine specific devices, data, or users depending on several risk parameters.
Standard access control begins with login credentials and easy passwords. However, advanced access control includes zero-trust and endpoint device management architecture techniques.
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Wireless security
A computer network that uses wireless connections to communicate requires specialized encryption. This is because the signal is open for anyone to interfere.
Besides, a wireless computer network needs to encrypt data because it flows in both directions. Strong encryption is a necessity to manage network security while preventing exploitation of the network by hackers.
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Network segmentation
When it comes to dividing different parts of a computer network using software, network segmentation comes into play. Because of this, each segment has its own access controls and security. The feature also allows network and security engineers to meet the requirements based on specific risk levels and other important factors.
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Intrusion prevention systems
IPSs or intrusion prevention systems constantly monitor network activities to look for unapproved attempts to gain access to network resources. The tools used for IPS could be either hardware-based or software-based.
Whenever an IPS finds an unauthorized attempt, it blocks the attempt. Moreover, it records the details about the intervention. Cybersecurity tools use this information to improve risk assessments and threat detection accuracy.
FAQs
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What purpose does computer networking serve?
The main goal of computer networking is to facilitate data and resource sharing among devices. A computer network allows users to share computing resources and data locally or over long distances.
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Who is a notable figure in computer networking?
When it comes to understanding the history of computer networking, Ray Noorda is a prominent figure. As Novell’s CEO in the early 1980s, Ray Noorda led the company to widespread adoption with its software for file sharing and networking. Several technologies developed by Novell and Noorda are still in use even today.
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How can I set up a computer network the right way?
To get started, you need to decide which architecture you want: peer-to-peer or server-client. Next, you should connect a minimum of two nodes wirelessly or through cabling. After that, configure every node carefully so that they can share resources. You can also configure the node to allow internet access.
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How does an Ethernet card work within a computer network?
A computer needs an Ethernet card to connect to a network using an Ethernet cable. Although manufacturers build these cards into the computer’s mainboard, you can install an additional Ethernet card to an existing computer. An Ethernet card comes with its own MAC (media access control) address.
The IP address of a device determines the MAC address via the ARP (address resolution protocol). Routers and devices connected to a network use the information to send data to the correct destination.
Modern networks now rely on Wi-Fi rather than physical connections and Ethernet cards. Still, Ethernet cards provide a fast, reliable network connection that benefits desktop applications.
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What is VPN’s role in computer networking?
To connect privately to a large network like the internet, you need a VPN. It securely creates a point-to-point connection between a VPN server and your device. A VPN masks your IP address and encrypts transmitted data. A VPN and a proxy server work almost the same. However, a proxy server only changes the IP address and does not include additional features that VPN offers.
