What are the components of a computer network? Computer networks are currently essential for companies, regardless of the size of the company.
At the computer level, data networks and their components have changed the way of doing business, and the usual performance in offices. Although when talking about components of a computer network, the subject may seem intimidating, it is easier to understand than it seems at first glance.
Components of a computer network.
The computer network has a series of hardware and software components that make its mission possible.
These devices could establish a connection using a cable and even use a wireless method so that information transmission is possible. As is normal, the configuration of the components of a computer network requires some hardware and software components for its installation and operation.
On this occasion, we want to show the components of a computer network at the hardware and software level necessary to carry out the proper configuration of a computer network.
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Components of a computer network: The Hardware.
What is called hardware are those visible and therefore tangible components. They are those components that are connected to the network with or without cable. In the components of a computer network, the most used at the hardware level are those shown below.
– The network interface card.
It is one of the components of a computer network that must be installed on all devices, since that will allow said devices to connect to the network.
The network interface card is similar in shape to what we know as a circuit board. The card includes a unique MAC address that is installed in the computer. Its function is to send and receive data as well as control the flow of data through the network.
The most commonly used name for the interface card is LAN. It is also known as a network adapter. In any case, it is one of the essential components for the operation of a computer network.
– Servers.
They are basically computers with high-level configurations. They are not common computers, since in this case they are intended to store shared files, resources, programs and the network operating system.
Servers are often referred to as host computers. This denomination is due to the fact that they facilitate access to network resources for those users who are connected to it.
As part of the components of a computer network, the server is oriented to different uses, the most common being database servers, file servers and web servers.
– The companions.
Although its name is somewhat curious, it actually refers to the same computer network devices that share similar rights and similar functions.
To understand it better, two computers can be the same. However, a PC and a server, although both are computers, are not really the same, since they do not share similar operations.
– Customers.
Clients refers to another important component of a computer network.
We are talking about the devices that make use of the network and its resources. Talking about clients refers to network users.
– The connection of devices.
A fundamental piece that is part of the components of a computer network is the connection of devices. This connection acts as middleware between the network and PCs.
The most common device connection is hubs. A hub is just a central connection from which devices on a network system connect. Also in the concentrators the connection of all computing devices is made.
Mind you, hubs are a bit outdated these days as more up-to-date technologies are available in the form of routers and switches.
On the other hand, switches also fall into the category of connecting devices. They are a controller where you connect various devices such as printers, computers and various hardware devices. Through the switches it is also possible to exchange resources and the free flow of information.
Finally there are the routers. It is the most economical method, since it allows efficient information sharing. It also connects a large number of devices with an Internet connection.
– The means of transmission.
Finally, with respect to hardware, there are the transmission media. It is a link that transmits information. Information passes between those devices that are within a network.
Transmission media that can be classified into two types. First, there are the guided media. A clear example of a transmission medium of this type is coaxial cable, fiber optics or electronic lines. There is also the other category of unguided media. In this sense, the most common are radio transmission, infrared transmission or even light transmission.
Components of a computer network: Software.
Of course, software is also essential for the operation of a computer network. Without the software, all hardware components would be meaningless. The components of a computer network at the software level are as follows.
1. The network operating system.
The operating system facilitates the connection of various devices we connect in a network.
With the network operating system you can share files, maintain or create databases and provide access to various hardware devices such as fax machines, printers etc. The most common operating systems are Windows, Unix and Linux.
2. Protocols.
Protocols are a set of defined guidelines and rules that devices connected to a computer network must follow. It is a set of protocols that are related and designed for a network.
In addition to the protocol suite and operating system, there are also other components of a computer network within the category of software, such as ARP and RARP.
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