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Networking | Science & Technology for UPSC CSE PDF Download

Computer networking means communication between a group of two or more computer systems linked together. Networks are built with amalgamation of computer hardware and computer software.
The most commonly discussed categories of computer networks include the following:

  • Local Area Network (LAN)
  • Wide Area Network (WAN)
  • Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
  • Storage Area Network (SAN)
  • System Area Network (SAN0)
  • Server Area Network (SAN)
  • Small Area Network (SAN)
  • Personal Area Network (PAN)
  • Desk Area Network (DAN)
  • Controller Area Network (CAN)
  • Cluster Area Network (CAN)
  • LANs and WANs were the original flavors of network design.

Internet is the technology that is used to connect different computer systems (located in different geographic location). Networking technology has revolutionized the world and created a new arena for the overall development of every nation.

Advantages of NetworkingAdvantages of Networking

Let us now discuss the advantages of networking. The advantages are described below −

Facility of Technical Support
Because of having computer networking, a person sitting in the United States of America provides technical support to a person sitting in a remote part of India.

Easy Sharing of Data
With the help of networking, it is very simple to share all formats of digital data from one computer system to another (irrespective of their geographic location).

Easy Sharing of Hardware Resource
With the help of networking, it has now become very simple to share the expensive resources including storage space, processor, fax, etc.

Easy Sharing Software
Through the networking system, it is easy to share and install the software from one computer system to another computer system.

Easy to Decentralize Data Processing
Through the networking system, it is very simple to decentralize the data processing system. It ultimately helps to control, secure, and manage the important data.

Easy to Communicate
With the help of networking, the communication system has now become highly efficient, frugal, and fast. The different modes of communication are text chatting, video chatting, emails, etc.

Types of Network
In this section, we will discuss the different types of network. The types are described below −

  • Local Area Network (LAN)
  • Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
  • Wide Area Network (WAN)

Local Area Network
Local Area Network or simply LAN is the technique of interconnecting a few computers located in a given premise. It is normally used for a single business office or a residential apartment.
The major purpose of such interconnectivity is to establish a communication system in order to make the work easier.
However, in such connectivity, some other devices can also be attached such as laser printers, fax machine, etc.

Metropolitan Area Network
Metropolitan Area Network or simply MAN is a system of network that normally covers a large metropolitan area (city part).
It provides high speed Internet services throughout the area covered within the network.

Wide Area Network
Wide Area Network or simply WAN is a system of network that covers a large geographical area across the world.
The services of WAN are provided by public (government) agencies as well as private agencies.
The network also provides the facility to access databases located remotely.
The WAN system is highly beneficial for MNCs and other big corporate companies (offering online services).

The document Networking | Science & Technology for UPSC CSE is a part of the UPSC Course Science & Technology for UPSC CSE.
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FAQs on Networking - Science & Technology for UPSC CSE

1. What is networking?
Ans. Networking refers to the practice of connecting computers and other devices to share resources and information. It enables communication and data transfer between devices, allowing them to work together and access shared resources such as printers, files, and internet connections.
2. What are the benefits of networking?
Ans. Networking offers several benefits, including: - Resource sharing: Computers and devices connected in a network can share resources like printers, scanners, and storage devices. - Data sharing: Users can easily share files and information across the network, improving collaboration and productivity. - Internet access: Networking allows devices to connect to the internet, providing access to vast amounts of information and online services. - Centralized management: Networks make it easier to manage and maintain devices, software, and security settings from a central location. - Cost savings: Sharing resources and internet access reduces the need for individual devices, resulting in cost savings for businesses.
3. What are the different types of networks?
Ans. There are various types of networks, including: - Local Area Network (LAN): LANs connect devices within a limited area, such as a home, office, or building. They typically use Ethernet cables or wireless connections. - Wide Area Network (WAN): WANs connect devices across large distances, often spanning multiple cities or countries. The internet is an example of a WAN. - Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): MANs cover larger areas than LANs but smaller areas than WANs, usually within a city or metropolitan area. - Wireless Network: Wireless networks use radio waves to connect devices without the need for physical cables. Wi-Fi is a common example of a wireless network. - Virtual Private Network (VPN): VPNs create secure connections over public networks, allowing users to access private networks remotely.
4. What is an IP address and how does it work in networking?
Ans. An IP address (Internet Protocol address) is a unique numerical label assigned to each device connected to a network. It serves as an identifier for devices to communicate with each other over the internet or within a network. IP addresses consist of four sets of numbers separated by periods, such as 192.168.0.1. In networking, when a device sends data to another device, it includes the destination device's IP address. Routers and other network devices use this IP address to route the data to the correct destination. IP addresses can be dynamic (assigned temporarily) or static (assigned permanently), depending on the network configuration.
5. How can I secure my network from unauthorized access?
Ans. To secure your network from unauthorized access, you can take the following measures: - Use strong passwords: Set strong and unique passwords for your network devices, such as routers and Wi-Fi access points. - Enable encryption: Use encryption protocols like WPA2 to secure your wireless network. This prevents unauthorized users from intercepting and accessing your data. - Enable network firewalls: Configure firewalls on your network devices to filter incoming and outgoing network traffic, blocking unauthorized access attempts. - Update firmware and software: Regularly update the firmware of your network devices and keep your operating systems and software up to date to patch security vulnerabilities. - Use virtual private networks (VPNs): When accessing your network remotely, use VPNs to encrypt and secure your connection, preventing eavesdropping and unauthorized access.
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