Features of Computer Network

A computer network is essentially a connection of two or more devices utilizing a channel in order to exchange information. A computer network allows you to quickly send and receive data to and from a computing device.
There are some very important features of Computer Networks, and we will go over them one by one in detail:

Features of Computer Network

1. Scalability:

Scalability refers to the ability to add new network components. The network must be scalable in order for us to expand it by adding more devices. However, it reduces the speed of the connection and the data transfer speed, which raises the possibilities of an error happening. A solution to this issue is using routing or switching devices.

For example, if a network currently has 100 devices, ease of scalability would mean that we can add another 100 devices or more as and when required by not having to modify the existing network too much.

2. Software and Hardware Sharing/Compatibility:

We may put the apps on the main server, allowing the user to access the applications from a single location. As a result, we do not need to install the program on each system. Hardware sharing happens in a similar manner.

A computer network should not require all computers in a computer network to utilise the same software and hardware; rather, it should allow for improved portability between diverse software and hardware configurations.

3. Data and File Sharing:

One of the reasons we use a computer network is to transfer data between different systems that are linked together via a transmission medium.

This technique distributes private data, information, and files among numerous systems linked by guided (cables) or unguided (waves) transmission means.

4. Performance:

The response time of a computer network determines its performance. The time taken for sending and receiving data from one node (a computer in a computer network is sometimes referred to as a node) to another should be as short as possible.

5. Backup:

A central server must be established for the computer network, and this server must maintain a backup of all data exchanged across the network. And, in the event of a network outage, this central server aids in speedier recovery.

Thus, retrieving a backup of lost data is simple and easy.

6. Security:

Security is one of the most important aspects of computer networks. As a result, a computer network should be secure so that data transmitted over the network is protected from unwanted access.

Furthermore, the data supplied by the sending node should arrive exactly as it is at the receiving node, which implies there should be no data loss during transmission.

Unauthorized users or hackers should not be able to access the data exchanged on the network.

7. Reliability:

Computer networks are dependable because they enable other methods for data and file exchange across computers in the event of hardware failure or connection issues.

If a network failure occurs, data recovery should be as quick as possible.

8. Communication Speed:

Networks give a quick and easy means for a group of individuals to communicate with one another. Some of the benefits of networks include email messaging, IP telephony, video conferencing, and so on.

9. Fault Tolerance:

Fault Tolerance refers to the capacity to continue operating despite faults and to ensure zero loss of services.

Assume your PC is linked to a wireless router, and this router connects to two additional routers, which in turn connect to the web server.

Now, if you browse for a link or a website, but your wireless router loses its connection with one of the routers, then the wireless router will establish a new connection with the other router and submit the request to the web server.

10. Quality of Service (QoS):

Quality of Service is the capacity to set priorities and control data flow in order to prevent data loss, delay, and other issues.

Summary

This article discusses the various features and advantages of Computer Networks, and the way in which they contribute to the ever-changing requirements of today’s world. Speed of information exchange is of the utmost importance today, along with many other important factors like scalability, performance, backup, security, reliability etc.