Advantages and Disadvantages of Computer Networking

Advantages of Computer Networks

Computer Networking helps to develop more opportunities for the field of information security

A device can be the most influential tool to safeguard personal information.

Being on the cheaper side, almost every person can bear the expense of a computer network

A family can get a new device/node for less than Rs 17000/- and still enjoy the advantages of a network.

A network provides a better-personalized experience

 Modern Computers give a very diverse user experience.
One can have more computing power in their pocket as compared to that of astronauts flying in space.

It allows us to collaborate on projects

Most companies use computer networking to connect with the teams to get all the updates and get the shared documents.
The same document can be shared among many people.

It can ease us to send/receive large-sized files in a few blinks of the eye

Nowadays, we’ve facilities like iCloud, google cloud, dropbox, etc. With the help of these, we can send and receive files, regardless of the size of the file. 

It is a great way to make money

It provides many freelancing ways to all entrepreneurs.

It also helps to save money

Sharing devices on a single network can help us to reduce many physical assets.
Productivity using computer networking also helps to save money.

A single internet connection can be shared in computer networking

Our one single device can work on a single unit to get online information.
This will reduce the cost of cables and other accessories.

We can enlarge the capability of the computer network

We can use IoT to link devices and get advantages in similar ways.

It is reliable

If for any reason, the system crashes, the data will remain with us because we are storing them on a network, and we can access that data from another device.

Disadvantages of Computer Networks

It can lead us to lose access to information very quickly

If a file crashes over a computer network, we will not be able to access that information instantly. 
Managing an extensive network is complex.

Work-life balance gets changed due to computer networking

Computer network makes each of the tasks handy in our device and contributes to changing the work-life balance.
It can lead us to lose access to information very quickly.

The cost of computer networking is very high

Executing the network as a whole, along with the cables, is pretty expensive.
The equipments used in computer networking are also expensive.

Computer Networking can direct us to various types of distractions

If self-discipline is not present with personal interactions with the technology. 
Switching between tasks can lose up to 40% productivity.

It requires a specific type of setup

It requires a minimum range of electromagnetic impedance to get appropriate coverage for a network.
Exceptional care is required during the installation.

Computer networking can result in people stopping believing in their memory

Dependence on digital platforms can lead us to this.
According to the studies, 6000 adults in Europe explore that they depend on computers over one-third of the time.

One device can create problems for the whole network

A virus in one device can also disturb the entire network.

How to Handle Common Disadvantages of Computer Networks

Security Vulnerabilities

Implement firewalls, encryption, and regular security audits.
Protect the network by setting up strong firewalls, encrypting data transmissions, and conducting frequent audits to detect and fix vulnerabilities before they are exploited.

Complexity of Management

Use centralized network management tools.
Simplify the oversight by adopting tools that allow administrators to monitor, manage, and troubleshoot network resources from a single dashboard.

Initial Setup Costs

Plan phased deployments and consider cloud-based solutions.
Reduce high upfront costs by rolling out the network in phases and using cloud services to minimize the need for expensive physical infrastructure.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Schedule regular maintenance and updates.

Maintain network health by setting clear schedules for software updates, hardware checks, and performance monitoring to prevent larger, costly issues.

Potential for Downtime

Implement redundancy and backup systems.
Ensure high availability by setting up redundant servers, multiple connections, and automatic failover systems that keep the network running during outages.

Dependency on Technology

Build robust contingency plans.
Prepare for technology failures by establishing backup systems, offline work methods, and detailed recovery strategies to minimize disruptions.

Data Loss Risks

Use automated backup and disaster recovery solutions.
Protect important data by setting up regular, automated backups and a tested disaster recovery plan to quickly restore information after an incident.

Privacy Concerns

Enforce strict access controls and data policies.
Safeguard user privacy by limiting access to sensitive data, applying data protection laws, and training staff on responsible information handling.

Performance Issues

Optimize network design and monitor traffic.
Improve performance by balancing the network load, upgrading hardware when needed, and constantly monitoring traffic to identify and fix bottlenecks.

Training Requirements

Provide continuous education and certifications.
Keep network teams updated with regular training, workshops, and certification programs to ensure they stay competent with new technologies and threats.

Applications of Computer Network

The applications of computer networking are as follows:

• Resource Sharing.
   
• Server-Client Model.
   
• Communication Medium.
   
• eCommerce.
   
• Access to remote information.
   
• Person-to-Person communication.
   
• Interactive entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

List all the types of computer networks.

There are 12 types of computer networks, which are PAN, LAN, WAN, WLAN, CAN, MAN, SAN, HAN, SAN, POLAN, EPN and VPN.

How is computer networking used in eCommerce?

Computer networking connects most devices online, and eCommerce is an online business. Therefore Computer networking is used to connect users with a single business.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of networks?

Advantages of networks include enhanced communication, resource sharing, and centralized data management. However, they can also be prone to security risks, network failures, and dependence on infrastructure.

What are the pros of computer networks?

The pros of computer networks include improved communication, efficient resource sharing, collaborative work environments, and centralized data storage and management. Networks enable seamless access to shared resources and facilitate collaboration among users.

What are the cons of computer networks?

The cons of computer networks encompass security vulnerabilities, potential for data breaches, network congestion, reliability issues, and dependency on network infrastructure. Additionally, network downtime can disrupt operations and lead to productivity losses.

Conclusion

In this article, we discussed all the advantages and disadvantages of computer networking. After reading this blog, It's clear that networks revolutionize communication and collaboration. They offer benefits like improved communication and resource sharing but come with risks such as security vulnerabilities and network failures.