Need for Networking in Computer:
Let us start our present discussion with a question, what is networking, and why is it required?
In simple terms, we can define computer networking as two or more computers are connected with each other either by copper wire, telephone lines, fiber optics, or through any other suitable medium to exchange information and to share the resources available to the computers.
Let us discuss it more elaborately.
Suppose in a computer, there are some important files stored on the hard disk. The user of that computer can definitely use that set of files, but if the same set of files is required by another user working on another computer, that will not be available directly. To access the same set of files, the other user will need to copy those files from the source computer through a single or more than one floppy disk. But the other user and any other users can access it simultaneously and easily if all the computers in the group are connected to each other using a suitable network.
The idea that we have discussed above is technically known as resource sharing, i.e., the available resources stored in one computer connected to the network can be available, to all the computers connected to the network. This facility is especially desirable where the resource computer is placed either at a geographically distant area or/and the resource is available in a computer, which is placed in a very hazardous environment from where manual data collection is almost impossible. Consider the work area of research on oceanography. In this system, data may be collected from the depths of the sea. But physically no human being can stay there to collect data. In that case, if a network is present between those computers, one of which is located at the depth of the sea, data can be accessed easily and efficiently.
Other examples are collecting data from other planets, from the core of the earth, from other remote places, and so on.
He may mention that in research laboratories, administrative and financial institutions, banks, weather forecasting, and other important areas, computer networking is used as an essential system for sharing office resources and other important files.
The other feature of networking is its improved reliability. For example, suppose a computer is not working where a valuable set of data is stored. If the machine is a standalone type, i.e., if there is no networking present and is an independent type, that set of data can never be utilized until and unless the machine is turned into working condition. But, if there is a networking present between a group of computers, through other computers, that set of data may probably be accessed. So, we can say that the networking mode of operation is more reliable than the stand-alone mode.
The next advantage of networking is that it is economical. The cost of a group of standalone computers will be much higher than a server (i.e., the main computer) and a set of terminals (not a full-fledged computer).
The last point of advantage of networking is, that it provides better communication between users. For example, let us consider that a multinational company has got its offices throughout the globe. If it issues any order to all of its offices using the normal postal system, it would need much time for the same. But if a network is present between all the offices of the company, all the global offices can receive the same notice instantly.
So, these are the major advantages of networking. But it has got some disadvantages also.
The major disadvantage is the data security problem. If there is a set of highly confidential data available in the network, then if proper security arrangement is not present, any unauthorized person can access it. Distorting of data may also be possible in this way. This may create a dangerous problem if the military or other related organizations are related to it.
So, to summarize the advantages and disadvantages of networking, we may point out the same as:
Advantages of Networking:
- Resource sharing and remote accessing of data.
- Improved reliability.
- Economical.
- A better and more efficient communication medium.
Disadvantages of Networking:
- Data security problem.
As the advantages outnumber the disadvantages, normally, networking is used in most situations. There are different kinds of security measures like password authentication encrypting/decrypting, digital signatures, and many others, which are used according to the necessity to overcome those limitations.
