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You must know that a network consists of more than one commuter that is linked in order to share resources. It is advantageous in that you can exchange files; allow electronic communications, even printers and CD-ROMs). There are three basic types of network that are normally used:

1. Local Area Network (LAN)
2. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
3. Wide Area Network

Local Area Network is confined to a small area and is generally limited to a geographical area about a mile apart to other computers. The configuration of LAN consists of software that controls the network and also the software that is shared by other computers that are attached to the network. It consists of a file server, a workstation and cables.

Metropolitan Area Network covers larger geographic areas and covers cities. They are used by local libraries and Government agencies to connect to citizens and private industries.

Wide Area Network connects larger geographic areas all over the world. It works with transoceanic cables or satellite uplinks.

ADVANTAGES

Speed is one of the advantages. Sharing and transferring files are very fast and saves a lot of time. It does not allow any fraud connections and is very safe. Another advantage is the cost. If the copies are made individually licensing each copy becomes very expensive.

If Networkable versions are used it saves cost. The upgrading of the program becomes easier in shared programs instead of upgrading individual work stations. Security is another factor. You must know that sensitive files on a network are password protected. They are termed as ‘copy inhibit’. This does not allow illegal copying. Another advantage is the Centralized Software Management. This can be loaded on just one computer which is the file server and time and energy in installing updates and tracking them on individual computers can be eliminated. Other advantages are Resource Sharing, Electronic Mail use, flexible access and Group Work computing.

Looking through all the advantages what does a technological person think? Yes, he feels nice that communication which the most important part of today’s knowledge based work has developed very fast and is also helpful not only for science and technology but also for the common man who can connect himself to different people and places.

It is because of this fast paced communication network that globalization has become easy. The modern world has come closer to each other and each country is not an island by itself. Even continents have come closer because of the advent of information technology. Due to this economy have also improved and different types of businesses have come into being.

Another major advantage of this is that many new jobs have got created in the technical field and has provided opportunities for the new generation to earn more and have a better standard of living.

The present generations including young adults who are still in the field of education are also aware of file sharing and storage of major knowledge that they acquire. Even families have now learnt to have different modems if each member has a computer and they get interconnected using a network with just one modem and printer. Networking has resolved the problem of purchasing expensive soft wares available in the market. Software can be stored in one system or server and it can be used by different work stations.