Computer network
NAS Recovery - Computer network
A computer network refers to a group of computers and related devices connected to each other for enabling communication and sharing information. A computer network may be classified on various criteria. The most common classification is based on the scale of networking, connection method and network architecture.
Scales of networking
Depending on the scale and functionality, computer networks are classified into Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), Metropolitan Area Network (MAN), Personal Area Network (PAN), Virtual Private Network (VPN), Campus Area Network (CAN), and Storage Area Network (SAN). A LAN is used to connect computers within an organization, while a WAN may be used to connect physically separate parts of an organization and may include third-party connections as well.
Connection Methods
A computer network uses various hardware and software technology to interconnect the individual devices in the network. They are Optical fiber, Ethernet, Wireless LAN, HomePNA, Power line communication or G.hn.
In Ethernet connection method, the network uses physical wiring to connect devices such as hubs, switches, routers, etc. In Wireless LAN, the devices are connected wirelessly. They use either radio waves or infrared signals as a transmission medium. ITU-T G.hn is a coaxial cable (home wiring and power lines) used to create a high-speed LAN.
Network Architecture
According to the functional relationships which exist among the elements of the network, a computer network may have Active Networking, Client-server and Peer-to-peer architecture.
Internet as Computer Network
Internet is a specific internetwork, with worldwide interconnection of public and private networks. Internet works on the basis of networking technologies of the Internet Protocol (IP) suite. Internet is the backbone of World Wide Web (WWW).
