Uses of Computer Networks

Questions and Answers

What is a major advantage of connecting computers within a company?

Facilitating resource sharing (correct)

Increasing physical storage space

Reducing the number of employees

Eliminating the need for software

Why might a company choose to share a common printer among office workers?

To manage a larger office space efficiently

To decrease overall maintenance expenses (correct)

To limit access to printing resources

To increase individual printing costs

Which type of information is crucial for modern companies to have online?

Personal employee interests

Confidential background checks

Customer records and financial statements (correct)

Employee entertainment data

What would likely happen if all the computers in a bank suddenly went down?

The bank would face severe operational issues almost immediately. Signup and view all the answers

In what way does a modern manufacturing plant rely on computer networks?

For controlling the assembly line operations Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) in a business context?

To allow employees to access networks and data from different geographical locations Signup and view all the answers

In the context of computer networks, which statement correctly describes the roles of clients and servers?

Servers store data used by clients, and clients are the machines through which users access that data. Signup and view all the answers

What challenge does relying on computer networks solve for businesses with distributed operations?

It allows employees in different locations to access the same data effectively. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant advantage of structuring a company's information system with a client-server model?

Data management is centralized, leading to better security and control. Signup and view all the answers

How does a network facilitate remote access to data according to the described model?

Networks connect multiple isolated systems for shared data access. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Uses of Computer Networks

Computer networks enable sharing of resources among multiple users, improving efficiency and collaboration within organizations.
Businesses often utilize networks for various applications, enabling computers to connect rather than operate in isolation.
Resource sharing includes programs, equipment, and particularly information, facilitating access regardless of the user's physical location.

Business Applications

Companies commonly provide each employee with a computer for tasks such as designing products, creating brochures, and managing payroll.
A shared printer is a common example of resource sharing; it is typically more cost-effective and easier to maintain than individual printers.
Information sharing is crucial; businesses rely on computerized data such as customer records, product information, and financial statements to function effectively.
In the event of a network failure, even large institutions like banks can lose critical operations within minutes, while modern manufacturing systems may halt in seconds.
Smaller businesses, such as law firms or travel agencies, also depend heavily on networks for immediate access to vital information and documents.
Larger companies may have networks that span multiple locations; employees can access shared data and resources regardless of distance.
Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) allow disparate locations to connect into a unified extended network, facilitating global access to information.
The need to overcome geographical limitations is highlighted by the concept of ending the "tyranny of geography."

Information System Structure

A company's information system typically consists of centralized databases containing important data accessed by remote employees.
Data is stored on powerful computers called servers, usually maintained by system administrators.
Employees utilize simpler client machines to access remote data for tasks such as spreadsheets, using the network as a connection medium.
Clients refer to both the machines and their users, depending on the context within the network structure.

Description

Explore the various applications and importance of computer networks. This quiz covers traditional business uses, home networking, mobile user advancements, and related social issues affecting network development. Understand why computer networks are vital in today’s technology-driven world.