Computer networking
Computer networking refers to the practice of connecting two or more computing devices together for the purpose of sharing resources, data, and information. Networking enables devices to communicate with each other and share resources such as printers, files, and internet access.
There are several types of computer networks, including:
1. Local Area Network (LAN): A LAN is a network that connects computers within a limited area, such as an office, school, or building.
2. Wide Area Network (WAN): A WAN is a network that connects computers over a large geographical area, such as a city, country, or the entire world.
3. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): A MAN is a network that connects computers within a metropolitan area, such as a city or town.
4. Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN): A WLAN is a type of LAN that uses wireless technology to connect devices together, such as Wi-Fi.
5. Storage Area Network (SAN): A SAN is a specialized network that provides access to data storage devices, such as disk arrays and tape libraries.
Networking protocols, such as TCP/IP, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi, are used to establish and manage communication between devices on a network. Network security is also an important aspect of computer networking, and includes measures such as firewalls, encryption, and authentication to protect data and prevent unauthorized access.