Communication and Network Services

Communication and Collaboration

• Networks enable email services and instant messaging for global communication.
• VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) allows voice and video calls through services like Skype and Zoom using network protocols.
• File sharing via cloud storage services such as Google Drive facilitates easy transfer of documents.
• Collaborative tools like Microsoft Teams and Google Workspace enable simultaneous work on documents by multiple users.

Internet Access and Entertainment

• Web browsing connects users to the World Wide Web for information and resources.
• Streaming services like Netflix and Spotify deliver on-demand video and audio content through networks.

Remote and Business Operations

• Remote Desktop allows users to control desktop computers remotely, vital for remote work.
• VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) provide secure internet access, commonly used for remote work.
• Enterprise networks help businesses manage resources and inter-departmental communication.
• CRM systems enhance customer data management, improving service delivery.

E-Commerce and Gaming

• Online shopping allows users to purchase goods and services through networks.
• Payment gateways ensure secure transactions in online financial exchanges.
• Online gaming enables multiplayer interactions and collaborations across distances.
• Social media platforms rely on networks for user connections and content sharing.

Education and Healthcare

• E-learning platforms support online courses and virtual classrooms for remote education.
• Telemedicine services enable remote consultations between patients and healthcare providers.
• Electronic Health Records (EHRs) manage and share patient data across healthcare facilities.

Smart Technologies and Research

• IoT (Internet of Things) connects smart devices for automation and data collection.
• Smart cities utilize networks for infrastructure management, including utilities and public services.
• Distributed computing allows collaborative research and computational tasks across systems.

Types of Communication Modes

• Simplex Mode: Unidirectional communication; only one device can transmit (e.g., radio stations).
• Personal Area Network (PAN): Connects devices within a short range (1-100 meters), utilizing Bluetooth and Zigbee.
• Local Area Network (LAN): Commonly used in homes and offices, connects computers within a limited area (up to 2 km) using Ethernet and Wi-Fi.
• Campus Area Network (CAN): Connects multiple buildings within a campus (1-5 km) using Ethernet technology.
• Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): Connects computers over a city or town, spanning 5-50 km, using technologies like FDDI.
• Wide Area Network (WAN): Covers large geographical areas beyond 50 km, including the internet, using leased lines and dial-up technology.

Comparison of Network Types

• PAN: Range of 1-100 m, very high transmission speed, very easy maintenance, very low cost.
• LAN: Up to 2 km range, high speed, easy maintenance, low cost.
• CAN: 1-5 km range, high speed, moderate maintenance, moderate cost.
• MAN: 5-50 km range, average speed, difficult maintenance, high cost.
• WAN: Over 50 km range, low transmission speed, very difficult maintenance, very high cost.

Network Types Based on Design

• Client-Server Network: One or more dedicated servers control the network, with multiple clients connecting for resource sharing.
• Peer-to-Peer Network: No central server; each device (peer) connects with others, sharing resources freely without restrictions.

Wired Computer Networks

• Utilize physical cables for stable and reliable data transmission, minimizing interference and resulting in high speeds.