A computer network is a system that connects two or more computers together so they can share data, resources, and information with each other.
Example:
- Your mobile connected to Wi-Fi → It is part of a network.
- Computers in an office LAN sharing a printer → This is a network.
Purpose -
Why do we use computer networks?
- Share data (files, documents, images)
- Share hardware (printers, scanners)
- Share software (applications)
- Communication (email, chat, video calls)
- Access internet
Types of Computer Networks:
- LAN (Local Area Network) – small area
Example: Home, office, school.
- MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) – city-level
Example: Cable TV network in a city.
- WAN (Wide Area Network) – large area, worldwide
Example: The Internet.
Components of a Network:
- Computers / Devices
- Router
- Switch
- Cables / Wi-Fi
- Network Interface Card (NIC)
