Difference between revisions of "Computer network"
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A '''computer network''' or '''data network''' is a telecommunications network which allows computers to exchange [[data]]. | A '''computer network''' or '''data network''' is a telecommunications network which allows computers to exchange [[data]]. | ||
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| + | == Description == | ||
In computer networks, networked computing devices pass data to each other along data connections (network links). | In computer networks, networked computing devices pass data to each other along data connections (network links). | ||
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The best-known computer network is the [[Internet]]. | The best-known computer network is the [[Internet]]. | ||
| − | Network computer devices that originate, route and terminate the data are called network [[Node|nodes]]. | + | Network computer devices that originate, route and terminate the data are called network [[Node (computer science)|nodes]]. |
Nodes can include hosts such as personal [[Computer|computers]], phones, and [[Server (computing)|servers]], as well as networking hardware. | Nodes can include hosts such as personal [[Computer|computers]], phones, and [[Server (computing)|servers]], as well as networking hardware. | ||
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* [[Internet]] | * [[Internet]] | ||
| + | * [[Node (computer science)]] | ||
* [[Remote computer]] | * [[Remote computer]] | ||
Revision as of 06:34, 4 February 2016
A computer network or data network is a telecommunications network which allows computers to exchange data.
Description
In computer networks, networked computing devices pass data to each other along data connections (network links).
Data is transferred in the form of packets.
The connections between nodes are established using either cable media or wireless media.
The best-known computer network is the Internet.
Network computer devices that originate, route and terminate the data are called network nodes.
Nodes can include hosts such as personal computers, phones, and servers, as well as networking hardware.
Two such devices are said to be "networked together" when one device is able to exchange information with the other device, whether or not they have a direct connection to each other.
Computer networks differ in the transmission media used to carry their signals, the communications protocols to organize network traffic, the network's size, topology and organizational intent.
In most cases, communications protocols are layered on (i.e. work using) other more specific or more general communications protocols, except for the physical layer that directly deals with the transmission media.
Computer networks support applications such as access to the World Wide Web, shared use of application and storage servers, printers, and fax machines, and use of email and instant messaging applications.
See also
External links
- Computer network @ Wikipedia
