Computer networks connect computers and other devices to share resources, information, and services. They can be built on wired or wireless connections and can be configured in various network topologies. Networks are essential for business today, and help us communicate, collaborate and work more efficiently. They also help with access to data and security.
Computer networking is a broad field that includes the conception, architecture, creation and maintenance of communication networks. It is a combination of electrical engineering.
The most famous computer network is the Internet which allows millions of people to connect and access the same resources at the same time. The network employs a switching model to direct data traffic through an almost endless number of possible connections and routes. Each packet includes control information and user data. The control information contains source and destination network addresses as well as error detection codes and sequencing information. The payload is contained in the data part of a byte.
In a typical network a central server stores data and manages access by users to critical resources like printers photocopiers, and files. The server is secured by firewalls and multifactor authentication systems to ensure that only authorized users can access it. The fact that all information is centralized on servers also allows administrators to carry out regular backups of their data and enforce strict security measures for the network. In addition, it enables employees to access corporate applications and services regardless of their whereabouts, such as video-calling software and document-sharing software.