Uses of Computer Network (Fully Explained)
A computer network offers numerous benefits for both organizations and individual users.
Resource Sharing
The primary function of a computer network is resource sharing. It enables the sharing of programs, peripherals, and data across all computers on the network, regardless of their physical locations. Consequently, a user located far away can access resources or view data just as easily as a local user would.
Another aspect of resource sharing is load sharing. When a task needs to be completed, it can be distributed among multiple computers in the network by breaking it down into smaller parts, which helps to minimize time and reduce the workload on any single computer.
Simultaneous Access
A computer network allows multiple users to create and modify programs and data simultaneously. For instance, a company's quarterly sales report may need to be accessed and updated by several managers. This information can be stored on a network server, which acts as a central computer equipped with substantial storage and resources that all users can utilize.
When the server holds files for users to access, it is typically referred to as a file server. We can keep a single copy of a data file on the server, making it available to every employee in the organization, as illustrated in the figure. Furthermore, if one user modifies the file, other users will notice the changes when they access it.
High Reliability due to Alternative Sources of Records
Reliability is a key advantage that is driving the popularity of networks among organizations. By utilizing systems, essential data can be stored in multiple locations. If one computer fails or crashes, the data can be retrieved from other computers within the network. This ensures that the data remains secure within the network.
Cost Reduction
The subsequent stage of the computer network involves minimizing expenses. Sharing resources inherently lowers costs, allowing for savings. Additionally, the prices of smaller computers are considerably lower than those of mainframes. While mainframes can be approximately ten times more expensive than microcomputers, the cost-to-performance ratio is significantly more favorable for small or microcomputers compared to large or mainframe systems.
Provide Communication Medium
A computer network serves as a vibrant communication platform connecting widely diverse individuals. It enables two or more people, even if they are miles apart, to collaborate on the same project by dividing tasks through the network.
Uses of Computer Network for People
Computer networks offer the following services to individuals:
Access to Remote Information
Accessing remote information manifests in various ways.
For example,
- Home shopping, paying telephone bills, e-banking, online stock trading, etc.
- You can tap into an information system like the World Wide Web, which encompasses data on crafts, business, cooking, government, health, history, recreation, science, sports, and more.
- Newspapers are now available online, allowing you to read news tailored to your interests.
Person-to-Person Communication
Person-to-person communication includes the following:
- Electronic mail (e-mail)
Electronic mail (email) is a way to send digital messages over the internet. It is among the most commonly used services online, enabling users to send and receive messages that may contain text, images, audio, and video.
- Teleconferencing and Video Conferencing
A teleconference is a virtual meeting where participants from different locations engage in discussions by sending typed messages. Everyone involved can view each message shared during the teleconference.
If clients possess the necessary hardware and software, they can see and converse with each other face-to-face online, rather than just exchanging text messages. This method is referred to as videoconferencing.
- Worldwide Newsgroups
Worldwide newsgroups allow one person to share information while other subscribers can read and respond to it.
- Interactive Entertainment
Interactive entertainment encompasses the following:
Video on Demand
It is possible to select any film and have it shown on your screen.
Game Playing
You can partake in multiplayer real-time simulation games. You can also engage in live TV shows such as quizzes, contests, discussions, and more.
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