Page 8 - Computer Class 08

8 Enable file sharing across the network.

8 Allow for the sharing of software or operating programs on remote systems.
8 Make information easier to access and maintain among network users.

Characteristics of a Computer Network

8 Share resources from one computer to another.

8 Create files and store them in one computer, access those files from the other
computer(s) connected over the network.

8 Connect a printer, scanner or a fax machine to one computer within the network and let
other computers of the network use the machine available over the network.

Advantages of Computer Networking

The advantages of computer networking are:
1. Information can quickly and easily be shared by people.

2. It helps in getting updated with the events around the world.
3. Sending or receiving letters through email becomes very easy.

4. It helps in sharing resources like printers, data etc. and saves money.
5. It helps in sharing a single connection among many computers.

6. Interaction among the people around the world through chatting and video
conferencing become easy.

7. Multi-player games can be played by multiple users at different computers.
Disadvantages of Computer Networking

Although there are several advantages in networking, there are some disadvantages also.
1. A fault in the network can cause user to lose the data.
2. The larger the network, more difficult it becomes to manage.

3. High setup and maintainene cost is required in a network.

4. It is very difficult to make the system secure from hackers and virus attack. Efficient
handlers are required.
5. The user becomes dependent upon them, if any problem arises in network many users
cannot do their work.

Components of Computer Networking

Different types of hardware devices are required to create a network.

Let’s discuss a few devices that play a crucial role in a computer network:
NIC (Network Interface Card) : To join a network, a computer must have a NIC. It joins the

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