What is a Network?
A network is a group of computers that share resources and communication protocols. These networks can be configured as wired, optical, or wireless connections. In web hosting, server networks store and share data between the hosting customer, provider, and end-user.
More About Networks
With web hosting, it can be helpful to understand how networks operate. A web hosting company provides the technology for a website to be viewed on the internet. To achieve this, different types of servers, routers, and remote computers all need to communicate in a complex network.
There are several different types of networks. Local-area networks (LAN) are connected devices in the same physical location, often a home or office. Wide-area networks (WAN) involve devices in multiple different locations. The worldwide web is an example of a WAN.
Networks operate with nodes and links. Nodes are the communication and terminal equipment such as computers and modems. They receive rules and protocols for sending and receiving data.
Links are the transmission media that connect nodes. Examples of links include cable wires and optic fibers.
