A computer network connects multiple computers together to allow them to communicate and share resources. The basic building blocks of a network include computers equipped with network ports, cables to connect the computers, and a network switch for them to plug into. Larger networks may include additional components like routers or repeaters. Computer networks provide benefits such as hardware and data sharing between connected devices, enhanced real-time communication, collaborative work environments, access to shared programs stored on servers, and increased storage capacity from network-attached devices. However, networks also pose security threats from hacking or data theft, single point of failures if the main server crashes, and potential virus or malware spread throughout the connected systems. Proper technical skills are required to administer large computer networks

1. Computer
Network
Introduction

2. What is a computer
network?
• A network is a group of
computers (or a group of
smaller networks) that are
connected to each other by
various means, so that they
may communicate with
each other. The internet is
the largest network in the
world.

3. Network building blocks
All networks, large or small, require specialized network hardware to make them
work. For small networks, the hardware may consist of nothing more than a collection of
computers that are equipped with network ports, a cable for each computer, and a
network switch that all the computers plug in to via the cable. Larger networks probably
have additional components, such as routers or repeaters.
Server
Client
Computer
Cable Network Switch

4. Computer Network’s benefits.
1. Hardware resource sharing
Networks are able to share one resource, such as a
printer, for numerous computers. This allows many individual
computers to access a single network resource. This saves
money and space for the organization
2. Data sharing
Once networks were setup, people found that the
next best thing was the ability to easily share documents. The
type of server that stores files is called a file server. Data can
be in the form of text, images, numbers or characters

5. Computer Network’s
benefits.
3. Enhance communication
People in distant place can communicate
in real time. Gone of the days of snail mail,
where your message can take days before it
reaches the receiver. With email and chat ,
communication can be done in a flash.
4. Work better
Many organizations use networks for
many purposes such as making schedule for
colleagues, pick up days for meetings (when
everybody will be able to attend) and provide
useful online connections for network-linked
employees. Employees can communicate on a
network with other employees through email.

6. Computer Network’s benefits.
5. Shared Programs
Server or Network based programs are
programs that are loaded onto an online server or
network as opposed to directly onto the individual
computers. This program can therefor be accessed
by any computer possessing the correct amount
of bandwidth and system specifications. In short it
uses the server as an application server.
6. It boost storage capacity
Increasing storage capacity - you can
access files and multimedia, such as images and
music, which you store remotely on other
machines or network-attached storage devices.

7. Computer Network’s
disadvantages.
1. Security threat
With the large number of people that connects to
the network, there is a high possibility that an illegal activity
may occur such as; data piracy, hacking, illegal sharing of
resources etc.
2. Lack of Robustness
If the main server of the network will breakdown ,
the entire system would be useless. People can’t connect and
access network resource if the system will be down.
3. Virus and Malwares
Virus and malwares were shared in the network. Those
network with weak security is an easy target for malwares and
virus that will spread in your network to hack information , or
just to bring down the system.

8. Computer Network’s
disadvantages.
4. Undesirable behavior
It has been observed that providing users with internet connectivity has fostered
undesirable behavior among them. Considering that the web is a minefield of
distractions—online games, humor sites and even porn sites—workers could be
tempted during their work hours. The huge network of machines could also encourage
them to engage in illicit practices, such as instant messaging and file sharing, instead of
working on work-related matters. While many organizations draw up certain policies
on this, they have proven difficult to enforce and even engendered resentment from
employees.
5. Requires highly technical skills
For a computer network to work efficiently and optimally, it requires high technical
skills and know-how of its operations and administration. A person just having basic
skills cannot do this job. Take note that the responsibility to handle such a system is
high, as allotting permissions and passwords can be daunting. Similarly, network
configuration and connection is very tedious and cannot be done by an average
technician who does not have advanced knowledge.

9. Conclusion
Computer network offers a lot from
increase productivity in the
workplace, instant communication
and recreation in any form etc., but
let us bear in mind that there are
people who used it negatively to gain
something or to disrupt production.

10. Assignment
Direction:
Submit a document containing a picture of You utilizing computer
network and its advantage. Include a 2-paragraph discussion depicting
the impact of network to your life. Submit your work to my email
amoso@mlgcl.edu.ph on April 21, 2022