Computer networks connect computers and other devices to share resources, information and services. They can be based on wired or wireless connections and are able to be configured in a variety of network topologies. Networks are a must for businesses today, and help us communicate with each other, collaborate and work efficiently. They also assist with access to data and security.

Computer networking is a broad field that includes the creation and maintenance of communication networks. It is a blend of computer science and electrical https://boardroomco.net/why-is-firefox-so-slow-and-how-to-deal-with-it/ engineering.

The most famous computer network is the Internet, which enables billions of people to connect and utilize the same resources simultaneously. The network uses a packet-switching model to channel data traffic through a nearly infinite number of paths and connections. Each packet contains both information about control and data from the user. The control information includes the source and destination network address along with error detection codes and sequencing information. The data portion of a packet contains the payload.

In a typical business network, there is a central server that stores information and controls access to vital resources such as photocopiers, printers and files. The server is secured by firewalls and multifactor authentication systems to ensure that only authorized users of the network can access it. Keeping all the information centralized on servers also allows administrators to conduct regular backups of their data and enforce strict network security policies. It also allows employees to access corporate services and apps regardless of where they are located including video-calling and document-sharing software.