What is a network?

A network exists when two or more computers are connected to each other. A network enables users to share data, files, software, and resources such as a printer. A network can have any of the following components:

There are two types of networks: an intranet and the Internet. An intranet is an internal network or local area network (LAN), that is connected to other networks through a gateway. The Internet is a collection of intranets.

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Workstations

A workstation is a computer that is connected to a network. A network can have two to several thousand workstations. Each workstation on the network can use different operating systems. For example, one workstation can use Windows 95 as its operating system, another can use Windows NT, and the third can use Corel LINUX.

Print servers

A print server is a computer that enables users on a network to share printers. A network can have more than one print server to meet the needs of its users. Depending on the requirements of the network, a computer can be used only as a print server, or it can also be used as a workstation, or as another server at the same time.

File servers

A file server is a computer that enables users on a network to share files. It provides disk space for users to store and access files over the network.

Database server

A database server is a computer that enables users on a network to store and access data. A network can have more than one database server. Users can request specific data rather than an entire file.

Network operating system

A network operating system (NOS) is the software that enables the workstations on the network to interact within the network. The software can be built into the operating system or can exist in conjunction with the operating system. For example, Corel LINUX is an operating system that has networking capabilities.

Gateway

A gateway is a computer or a device, such as a router, on the network that lets two or more networks communicate. Each network can be configured differently and have different network operating systems. For example, it is possible for a network that uses Corel LINUX as its operating system to communicate with a network that uses Windows NT.

Hub

A hub is a device that physically connects a computer to a network. Hubs are sometimes referred to as Multistation Access Units (MAUs).

Remote access server

A remote access server lets networks from all over the world access a local network via a telephone line. The remote access server can support two or more connections. Bandwidth is the amount of data that can be sent through a network connection, measured in bits per second (bps). High bandwidth allows for fast transmission of data.