Meta Desc: What is a network? Check the complete definition and function below!

Have you ever heard of a network? Networking is a concept that is quite broad and encompasses many aspects of everyday life. Not only in terms of technology but also in terms of the biological world. However, what makes networks different is the application and the type of resource devices used. 

What is a network? 

A network is a collection of devices that are directly connected within various data. If we look at the term, this network comes from the word “network” in English, which means a network of relationships or work. This network will later consist of many types of devices, including tablets, smartphones, and many others.

Not only that, but the network also includes several criteria, such as fiber optics, radio waves, as well as cables, and other media. Anything that is interconnected in a place is called a network, as long as its origin is still within its scope. The use of the word “network” itself must also be adjusted according to the context and intent.

For the needs of the field of technology and information, this term corresponds to the needs of a computer network, which means a unit that is interconnected for information and resources. This also refers to social networks or relationships between individuals or groups of people. Then in biology, the term “tissue” refers to a group of cells that perform a function.

What is the meaning of the Internet network?

If focused on the internet network, then the meaning will be quite different. The Internet is a global network that can connect many computer devices, usually ranging from hundreds to millions, all over the world. With this network, devices can directly share a large amount of data and information.

You no longer need to look at a computer that is far away; you can directly view it from the available network. Usually, an internet network consists of several important components, starting from communication protocols such as Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP).

Then, there is something called physical infrastructure, which includes several small details such as satellites, switches, copper cables, and fiber optics. In addition, some servers assist in the process of storage and information provision. There are also client devices such as smartphones and computers.

What Are the Functions of a Network?

Networks have many benefits for the needs of modern life today. For a complete explanation, you can check everything as follows!

1. Supporting Good Data Management Needs

The first function you get from having a network is that it can facilitate all needs, starting from data distribution, recovery, and and backup, to data management. Thus, the stored data can be directly located on the central server, and its processing can be easier for those who have access to it.

2. Improvement of Security Aspects

This network system can help you implement all the important details, from resource protection to the data within it. Some of the provided components include authentication, encryption, and a good firewall to protect data from potential leaks.

3. Supporting Collaboration Needs

The third function is that this network helps you to collaborate with your team and work on tasks even if you are far apart, so there is no need to meet in person, especially if time is tight. This network is capable of providing engaging collaboration needs with special tools within it.

Some tools that can be used are Microsoft Teams, Google Docs, or other types of collaboration that are equally good because they are established in real time. This collaboration will make the product or work results more optimal and efficient.

4. Supporting Easier Access to Information

The existence of a network makes the need for information access easier from anywhere and anytime. The internet helps us access more resources to support work and learning needs from anywhere without limits. In this way, you can maximize your time and place to be more optimal.

5. Supporting Efficient Communication

The network helps you communicate faster and more efficiently with the members involved in it. The platforms used are also varied, ranging from video calls and instant messaging to emails; everything is possible. You certainly know that almost all fields currently prioritize the need for more practical communication.

6. Available for Many Resources

The next function of the network is to assist with many resource needs, including internet connections, power storage, and printers for the hardware included within it. The existence of a network helps you to be more cost-effective and efficient in maintenance.

Various Types of Networks

What are the different types of networks? Networks themselves are categorized into several criteria and types within them, ranging from technology, topology, and many others. For more details, don’t forget to check the complete explanation as follows!

  • Extranet: The purpose of this network is to provide limited direct access to users outside the organization to facilitate data sharing and communication within it.
  • Intranet: This network is more private and requires the internet to share resources and information within the organization.
  • Internet: This network is global and connects many devices around the world. Usually, the one you often use is called WAN.
  • PAN: PAN itself is an abbreviation for Personal Area Network, which means it covers a smaller area within just a few meters radius. Usually used for personal device connections only.
  • WAN: WAN stands for Wide Area Network, which means a network capable of covering a broader geographical area from countries to continents.
  • MAN: MAN is short for Metropolitan Area Network, which means this network directly covers the needs of a wider area, usually connecting one city or a metropolitan area within it.
  • LAN: LAN stands for Local Area Network, which is a network that directly covers a relatively small area, usually just for connecting buildings or campuses in the educational world. This network will connect all the computers within that coverage area.

It’s easier to manage the internet network with the support of Netmonk. This web-based application works directly according to current needs and frequently used features, so everything that happens in the network can be immediately recorded and reported more comprehensively. Netmonk has become an efficient network monitoring application for both small and large-scale businesses.

You can use it for security support and also guarantee more affordable costs compared to other types of monitoring.