The Role of Computer Networks in Modern World

Technology has become one of the most important tools today in our daily life. Every year important teams of engineers and technicians work in the development of new technologies and ways to make our lives and jobs easier. It’s completely correct to say that technology is not the same than 15 plus years ago. Today in our daily life we have the top of the best systems and components that make every device efficient and smarter. For example, PC and smartphones today combine new technology and materials, new software as well what makes possible send or receive information faster and easier. But, with all technology around and new data to share the need to make networks more efficient has become a challenge through the years. I think Networks today in our daily life are essential for office and big companies. Networks keep the balance and flow of information not only in buildings and enterprises because have become necessary in any place where we have multiple devices connected sharing and managing information.

A Network is a connection between different devices that share information and work in real time in harmony with software and hardware technology. Especially networks are used to connect this devices and computers to the internet. We can have also scanners and printers connected to the same area and network. There is a variety type of networks that are classified depending on the use and characteristics. In this paper, I want to discuss some of the most important characteristics and ways that make possible the connection in a network. First of all, there are different network arrangements what is called topology and when it comes to topology we have different types of topologies physical or logical. An example of physical is Bus topology, Ring topology, and Star topology. Also, we can find different types of networks like Peer to Peer Network and Client Server Network. Another important point to discuss is the that depending on the size and amount of information managed the networks are divided into categories, for example, LAN (Local Area Network), MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) last WAN (Wide Area Network). Each one of these categories responds to different demand, taking the example of a small company that has at least 20 computers connected and multiple printers and scanners. Every workstation can manage and share information. Data can be stored in a server and have less risk of losing this information making simple and secure if we need a backup. Continuing with this example another advantage of having a network is that all the data can be transferred easy and fast avoiding using external devices to move the information like a USB. Also, every workstation can have the benefit of using the same printer and scanners than others. Efficiency in networks for some companies also depends on the connection. Two basic methods of connecting a network can be wired or wireless connection. Others like Optical Fiber are very efficient because instead of copper wires uses glass or plastic that transfer light. Optical Fiber is faster than other networks connected for example with coaxial cables. Even a hundred times faster than twisted pair cables.

In another hand, we can connect a network using a wireless LAN. A wireless area network connects different devices together but without wires using infrared or radio waves to transfer the information we want. Today wireless connection is really popular because the installation is simple and since we don’t need wires connected directly to the devices we want we can move or relocate the desired device. Wireless networks may have advantages over wired networks, for example, the convenience of connecting from any location and the cost because reduce the use of wires and if you need to expand it can use the same equipment versus wires that may require new installations plus hardware. In order to have a successful network is necessary a basic hardware, for example, popular devices like Repeaters, Hubs and Bridges are essential to transfer data without corrupting or fail.

In conclusion, networks are more complex than we think. Today we have new technologies that make our networks more efficient and secure for example wireless connection what is gaining more popularity every day. Big companies, small offices, and homes can enjoy the benefits of networks and all the different advantages that software and hardware give us when we want to send an email, print a paper or search for information. Networks today respond to the demand of clients and make possible share data over the country. The innovation we have today is really astonishing and will continue developing in order to satisfy the demand of clients and users.