Computer networks allow the sharing and centralized management of resources, information and applications across a variety of devices in an scalable, secure fashion. Computer networks are a vital part of our modern society and provide many benefits, including better collaboration and communication and also lower costs, enhanced safety and access to data and resources.
Links and nodes are the two major elements of the network. Nodes are network devices such as printers, computers and file servers that can communicate with one another using an established set of rules known as communication protocols. Links connect these nodes via wired or optical connections. A laptop that connects to local networks via Wi-Fi is both a node (DTE) and linked (DCE). Network switches and routers act as traffic police, directing data packets to their intended destination efficiently.
A wide area network (WAN) is a network of greater scale that utilizes bridges and gateways for interconnecting multiple LANs. In contrast to a LAN it is connected to the Internet and other global communications networks. Students in Florida, for example can use teleconferencing on their computers with colleagues in Tokyo because of a network called a WAN.
Computer networks simplify workflows and encourage collaboration and engagement in the workplace. Employees can Bonuses save documents to a server that is regularly backed-up, instead of sending documents back-and-forth and resulting in losing files. They can also access standard versions of employee or manuals for customers via the network. This ensures consistency and accuracy.