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Network Overview |
Perhaps one of the most vital infrastructures in today’s business world, is how organizations process their information. Organizations are increasing their dependence on computers to transform raw data into useful information. This, in turn, has made computer network systems immensely popular to compete effectively in today's ever-changing business environment. What is a network? A computer network is nothing more than two or more computers connected together in order to share information. It's a simple but very powerful concept. Networked computers (also called nodes, clients, workstations, and servers) perform three key functions; they share files, resources (printers, disks, etc.), and programs. A networked computer that provides resources is called a server. The computer accessing those resources is called a workstation or client. Servers are usually the most powerful computers on the network because other computers share their resources. A computer may be a server or a workstation but rarely both. Effective networking A network infrastructure is like a jig saw puzzle in that you put the pieces together for a picture perfect. A network infrastructure is a complex entity, comprising of hardware, software, connectivity equipment and components from many sources, which enables organizations to share all resources on their Local Area Network. Effective networking is the interconnection of servers, workstations, peripherals and other devices and what's important is that all these devices communicate with each other and speak the same language or protocol. Bringing those components together to form a single infrastructure requires a considerable technical knowledge and capability. Network Implementation If computers are connected to the network in close proximity to one another, as in the same building or group of buildings, the network is called a local area network (LAN). If the computers are connected over a large metropolitan area it is called a metropolitan area network (MAN). If the network extends over a large geographic area, it is called a wide area network (WAN). WANs are typically connected using long-range telecommunication links and may connect other LANs or MANs together. LANs are increasingly being divided into workgroups connected via common backbones to form VLANs (virtual LAN). Because VLANs are based on logical instead of physical connections, they are extremely flexible. VLAN provide solutions to improve inherent LAN performance problems. VLAN technology is cost effective and it's an efficient way to segment a LAN. New upcoming technology is Wireless local area network (WLAN). Wireless technology has dramatically increased mobility and productivity in the work place by providing users with flexible tools that are both efficient and effective, also allows users to constantly be connected to the network, no matter where they are. Virtual private networks (VPN) offers an inexpensive secured and encrypted method for connecting business partners, branch offices and remote employees to central offices and to each other and share information and resources across an organization locally, regionally or globally and enabling ideas to be exchanged between people all over the world via the Internet. 
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