What is a computer network? Definition, types and uses

When two or more computing devices connect to each other, we are in the presence of a computer network. Understanding what this type of structure is and how it works is essential for those who are starting out in the world of computing and telecommunications. In this post we will address the basic concepts related to computer networks, their classification and main uses.

Truth be told, we all need to have some understanding of how a computer network works. In most homes there are two or more computing devices connected to each other by various means. Knowing how these interconnections work allows you to take full advantage of all the potential of our computers and other computer equipment.

What is a computer network? Concept

A computer network is nothing more than a set of electronic devices connected to each other to share information and resourcesIn addition to computers (laptops and desktops), the network can also include other devices such as mobile phones, tablets, printers, routers, etc. This is why it is also known as a computer network.

In this digital age, computer networks have become essential structures for the execution of multiple tasks in different fields. They are present almost everywhere, from our homes to educational and business environments. In fact, we can say that the Internet is, on a large scale, a network of computers and servers interconnected throughout the entire planet.

Elements of a computer network

To better understand the concept of a computer network, it is useful to identify the main ones. elements that make up this type of structuresThe word network already makes us think of a set of elements connected to each other. What makes this interconnection possible? The presence of the following main components:

• computing devices: Any device capable of connecting to the network (computers, mobile phones, printers, tablets, smart watches, augmented reality glasses, etc.).
• Transmission and connection media: That is, the channel through which data, resources or services are sent. They can be physical media (Ethernet cable, fiber optic, coaxial, etc.), or wireless signals (Bluetooth, Wifi, satellite, microwave, etc.).
• Interconnection devices: Equipment that connects network devices and ensures efficient data transmission, such as routers, switches and hubs.
• Communication protocols: These encompass the set of rules that determine how data is sent and received. It is like the language that devices speak to understand each other. A couple of examples are the Internet Protocol (IP) and the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP).

Another way to classify the components of a computer network is in nodes and links. Nodes include computing devices (computers, mobiles, etc.) and interconnection devices (routers, switches, etc.). Links would be the transmission and connection media, both physical and wireless. Thus, nodes follow and use the protocols communication to send and receive electronic data through links.

Computer networks and their architecture

In order to function properly and fulfill a certain objective, the elements of a computer network must be organized. This is known as architecture: the overall design that establishes how devices are connected, how information is transmitted, and how the entire network is managedThe architecture of a computer network will depend largely on its purpose, size and number of elements.

Basically, there are two types of architecture for a computer network: server-client and person-person (per-to-per). In the first, an element acts as a central server, offering resources, data or services to the rest of the elements. A simple example of a server-client network They are computers and smartphones connected to a router via network cable and Wi-Fi.

On the other hand, there is the person-to-person architecture, or P2P, which connects two or more computers without any one acting as a central server. All computers have the same hierarchy and access to each other's data and resources. A well-known large-scale example is the BitTorrent, which allows downloading of file fragments from multiple sources at once.

What is topology in computer networks?

Another concept related to the elements of a computer network is the topology, that is, the physical or logical arrangement of these elements within the network. It is important to correctly choose the location of routers, switches and computers, as well as the number and type of connections to be used. This has a direct impact on the speed, efficiency, stability and scalability of the network.

Some most used network topologies

• Star topology: All devices connect to a central node, such as a switch. It is easy to install and manage, so it is used very frequently.
• Bus topology: Devices are connected to a common cable. This is the easiest to implement, but the least reliable.
• Ring topology: Data travels bidirectionally from one device to another.
• Mesh topology: Every device is connected to every other device, creating a robust and complex network.

Types of computer networks

The most common way to classify computer networks is depending on its scope or geographical extensionThe most commonly used are the following:

• Personal Area Network (PAN)Personal area networks are the smallest, connecting devices close to a person, such as a mobile phone, a computer and a headset.
• Local Area Network (LAN): These are the most common, and connect several devices in a small area, such as a home or office.
• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): They cover a larger area than a LAN, such as a city. For example, a network that connects several offices spread across a city.
• Wide Area Network (MAN): These are the largest networks, connecting devices over long distances, such as mobile phone networks or the Internet.

What are the uses of a computer network?

On a small and large scale, computer networks have transformed the way we communicate, work and live. Thanks to these computer structures, we have access to more information than ever before. In addition, they facilitate the execution of countless tasks, which is why they are used in the following ways:

• Communicating people and groups with each other, which promotes teamwork, decision-making and time savings.
• Share resources, such as data, storage space or printers, which reduces costs.
• Remote access: Different users can access and work with the same data and documents, from anywhere.
• Store and control data and resources in a central location with access only to authorized personnel.