What is a Computer Network?

A computer network is a system in which multiple computers are connected to each other to share information and resources.

Characteristics of a computer network

• Share Resources from one computer to another
• Create files and store them in one computer, access those files from the other computer(s) connected over the network
• Connect a printer, scanner, or a fax machine to one computer within the network and let other computers of the network use the machines available over network.

Following is the list of hardware's required to setup a computer network.

• Network Cables
• Distributors
• Routers
• Internal Network Cards
• External Network Cards

Network Cables

Network cables are used to connect computers. The most commonly used cable is Category 5 cable RJ-45.

Distributors

A computer can be connected to another one via a serial port but if we need to connect many computers to produce a network, this serial connection will not work. The solution is to use a central body to which other computers, printers, scanners etc. can be connected and then this body will manage or distribute network traffic.

Router

A router is a type of device which acts as the central point among computers and other devices that are part of a network. A router is equipped with holes called ports and computers and other devices are connected to a router using network cables. Now-a-days router comes in wireless modes using which computers can be connected without any physical cable.

Network Card

Network card is a necessary component of a computer without which a computer cannot be connected over a network. It is also known as network adapter or Network Interface Card (NIC). Most branded computers have network card pre-installed. Network cards are of two types : Internal and External Network Cards.

Internal Network Cards

Motherboard has a slot for internal network card where it is to be inserted. Internal network cards are of two types in which first type uses Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) connection while the second type uses Industry Standard Architecture (ISA). Network cables are required to provide network access.

External Network Cards

External network cards come in two flavours : Wireless and USB based. Wireless network card need to be inserted into the motherboard but no network cable is required to connect to network

 Universal Serial Bus (USB)

USB card are easy to use and connect via USB port. Computers automatically detect USB card and can install the drivers required to support the USB network card automatically.