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Computer networks: definition, history, types, examples, and benefits

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A computer network is a system that connects devices to share data and resources. This article will discuss what it is, the types of networks, the main components, as well as their benefits and challenges. In addition, it will be described the development of technologies such as wireless networks.

Pengertian Jaringan Komputer

A computer network is a collection of two or more computer devices that are interconnected for various data, resources and services.

As mentioned earlier, this network allows computers and other devices such as printers, server, or storage devices, communicate with each other via communication media such as cable or wireless. (wireless).

The main purpose of a computer network is to increase the efficiency of communication and the use of resources between users and devices.

Sejarah Komputer

Before discussing the history of computer networks, it would be better to understand the journey of the creation of computers. Here is the history of computers from the first generation to the present.

1. Generasi Pertama (1940-1959)

The first generation of computers began to appear during World War II, developed by countries that needed them for the benefit of the war. These computers were very large in size and used vacuum tubes.

The pioneer of the development of computers was the German Conrad Zuse, who in 1941 created a computer called Z3 for designing aircraft and bullets. The British also developed a computer called Colossus to crack German secret codes.

Pada tahun 1946, ilmuwan Amerika Serikat menciptakan ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer). Some examples of computers from this era include EDVAC, EDSAC, and UNIVAC.

2. Generasi Kedua (1959-1965)

Second-generation computers rely on transistors and operate using assembly machine language, widely used in government agencies and universities.

The use of transistors makes computers smaller, more economical, faster, and more efficient in energy consumption. In addition, the main memory capacity becomes quite large and the operation process is faster.

However, the weakness of computers at this time was the tendency of machines to overheat quickly, which could damage other components. An example of a computer of this generation is the DEC PDP-8.

3. Generasi Ketiga (1965-1971)

In the third generation, Jack Kilby of the United States found a solution to the problem that arose in the use of transistors in the previous generation.

Computers in this generation have a smaller size thanks to the use of IC (Integrated Circuits) components, which also makes them more energy efficient. Another advantage of this generation is the introduction of an operating system that supports the simultaneous execution of many programs.

4. Generasi Keempat (1971-1980)

In the fourth generation, computer chips began to be distinguished into chips that could accommodate 230 transistors and were capable of performing 60 thousand operations in a short time.

This Era also created laptops that were more compact and easy to carry everywhere. Over time, computers also began to be able to connect in networks, which marked the beginning of the emergence of the internet.

5. Generasi Kelima (Sekarang-Masa Depan)

The fifth generation of computers was pioneered by the Japanese and began to adopt the PC Standard. The companies known as experts in computer development in this phase are Intel and Microsoft. This latest generation is often referred to as the “Pentium” generation due to the use of microprocessors that are considered the most advanced.

Sejarah Jaringan Komputer

cable network picture
Computer networks (source: Pexels.com)

The history of computer networks began in the 1940s in America, when the concept of a computer network was created through a computer development project at Bell Laboratories and a research group from Harvard University led by Professor Howard Aiken.

At first, this innovation aims to maximize the utilization of computer devices for common purposes.

With the idea of accomplishing multiple tasks without spending too much unproductive time, successive processes were invented so that programs could be run on multiple computers.

Furthermore, in the 1950s, with the rapid development of computers until the creation of supercomputers, there was a need for a computer to serve several terminals.

To meet this need, the concept of process distribution based on time known as TSS (Time Sharing System) introduced. This marked the first application of computer networking, in which multiple terminals were sequentially connected to one computer or other device in a computer network.

Jenis Jaringan Komputer

This network has various types, each of which also has its own characteristics and unique uses. The following types of computer networks include:

1. Berdasarkan Jangkauan

  • LANLocal Area Network) : A local network that connects devices within a restricted area such as home, work, or school.
  • MANMetropolitan Area Network) : A network that covers a wider geographic area such as a city or industrial area.
  • WANWide Area Network) : A network that connects geographically separated computer devices, can be between cities, countries, and even continents.

2. Berdasarkan Topologi

  • Bus TopologyTip: all devices are connected via one main cable. Although easy to implement, this topology is prone to interference.
  • Star Topology: All devices connected to a central hub or switch. This facilitates network management.
  • Mesh Topology Features: devices are directly connected to each other, providing high flexibility and reliability.

Topologi Jaringan Komputer

Network topology refers to the configuration of nodes and links in a network. Knots can be arranged in different ways to achieve different results. The following computer network topology, among others:

1. Topologi Bus

The first computer network topology had the characteristic of each node being connected with one other node. Data transmission in this network takes place in one direction.

2. Ring TopologyRing)

The second computer network topology has the characteristic that each node connects with two other nodes, forming a ring. Data can flow in two directions, but a failure at one node can disrupt the entire network.

3. Star TopologyStar)

This topology has the characteristics of each central server node connected to multiple client network devices. This topology offers better performance because data does not have to pass through every node, as well as being more reliable.

4. Mesh TopologyMesh)

In this topology, each node is connected to many other nodes. In a full mesh topology, each node is connected to all other nodes in the network.

Manfaat Jaringan Komputer

With the creation of this network, it certainly brings many benefits to its users. Here are the benefits of Computer Networks, among others:

1. Efisiensi

The benefit of the first computer network is that it facilitates the process of various resources and the exchange of information more efficiently, thus saving time and costs.

2. Produktivitas

The second benefit of a computer network is that it can increase productivity because it supports collaboration and easier communication between individuals and teams.

3. Akses Informasi

Another benefit of computer networks is the ease and speed of accessing various information needed, which supports the process of learning and personal development.

4. Hiburan

The last benefit of computer networks is that they can be a means to enjoy entertainment online, thus enriching the experience in your spare time.

Contoh Jaringan Komputer

The following are some examples of computer networks that are often used.

1. LANLocal Area Network)

The first example of a computer network is a LAN that can connect computers and other devices within a limited area such as a home, school, or office. For example, a computer network that connects multiple computers and printers.

2. WANWide Area Network)

A second example of a computer network is a WAN that covers a large geographic area, such as a country or continent. The Internet is the largest example of a WAN, where networks around the world are interconnected.

See also: SD-WAN: What, benefits, how it works and how it differs from MPLS?

3. MANMetropolitan Area Network)

A further example of a computer network is a MAN that covers an area larger than a LAN, but smaller than a WAN, as in a single city. For example, a network that connects several government offices in a city.

4. PANPersonal Area Network)

The next example is useful for connecting personal devices, such as a computer, smartphone, and tablets. For example are bluetooth which connects smartphone with earphones.

5. VPNVirtual Area Network)

A later example could allow users to securely access a local network over the internet. For example, VPNs are used to securely access Office data from a remote location.

Kelebihan Jaringan Komputer

pictures of people discussing
Advantages and disadvantages of Computer Networks (source: Pexels.com)

Here are some advantages of Computer Networks, among others:

1. Berbagi Sumber Daya

Can allow a variety of resources such as printers, scanners, and storage devices between computers in the network reduce the cost of purchasing the device for each user.

2. Komunikasi yang Cepat

It can facilitate rapid communication between users via email, instant messaging, and video conferencing, accelerating collaboration and information exchange.

3. Akses Data Terpusat

The next advantage of a computer network is that with a network, data can be stored centrally on a server, allowing all users in the network to access the same information whenever needed. It also facilitates data management and security.

4. Kolaborasi yang Lebih Baik

Allowing multiple users to work simultaneously on the same project, even if they are in different locations, increases team productivity.

5. Keamanan Data

The use of the network allows the implementation of security policies such as firewall and encryption, which helps protect sensitive data from unauthorized access.

6. Skalabilitas

Computer networks can be easily expanded by adding more devices without the need to build new infrastructure.

Kekurangan Jaringan Komputer

Here are some disadvantages of Computer Networks, among others:

1. Biaya Awal yang Tinggi

In its manufacture, especially large-scale networks, require considerable initial costs for hardware such as servers, routers, switches, as well as cable or wireless infrastructure.

2. Ketergantungan pada Server

If a central server crashes or goes down, the entire network can be disrupted, causing users to be unable to access connected data or resources.

3. Risiko Keamanan

These networks are more vulnerable to attacks cyber, such as malware, hacking, or data breach, especially if security measures are not properly implemented.

4. Perawatan dan Pemeliharaan

These networks require regular maintenance by skilled technicians to ensure smooth operation and address any engineering problems that arise.

5. Kerumitan Manajemen

The larger the network, the more complex its management and management. This includes access Settings, Security, Monitoring traffic, and troubleshooting.

Conclusion

That's what this article is about computer networks. We can conclude that a computer network is a system that allows multiple devices to connect to share data, resources and services, both through cables and wirelessly.

This network provides many benefits such as efficiency, increased productivity, and quick access to information. However, there are also disadvantages such as high cost, vulnerability to cyberattacks, and complexity in management and maintenance.

Nonetheless, the benefits of computer networks are far greater, especially in supporting communication and collaboration in the digital age.

Finally, if you are looking for a trusted auditing application, choose us Audithink which has features user-friendly which can certainly make it easier for your company's audit team. Contact us immediately contact us to conduct your audit needs consultation.

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