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Advantages And Disadvantages Of Computer Network (& More) Explained!

Imagine you're sitting in your favorite coffee shop, sipping on a latte and browsing the internet on your laptop. Have you ever wondered how you're able to connect to the World Wide Web and access all the information at your fingertips? Well, that's all thanks to computer networks.

Computer networks have revolutionized the way we connect and communicate. They provide numerous advantages, such as resource sharing and improved productivity, but also come with challenges, like security risks. And it’s high time we better understood the concept and the advantages and disadvantages of computer network.

What Is A Computer Network?

First thing first, let's understand what is a computer network?

A computer network is a collection of interconnected devices, such as computers, servers, and routers, that are linked together to share resources and communicate with each other. It's like a digital highway that enables us to transmit, receive and share data in the form of different file formats - ultimately, ensuring that data flows seamlessly between devices.

Confused about how data flow is controlled in computer networks? Get a detailed explanation here.

Let's see the different types of computer networks.

The four main types of computer networks with their coverage areas are given below:

Types of Networks	Range of Network
Local Area Network (LAN)	Spreads over a building or office area
Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)	Large network of government, individuals, and private companies
Personal Area Network (PAN)	Has a range of 10 meters (Individuals and devices)
Wide Area Network (WAN)	Spreads overstate or countries

Read here to understand the difference between the common computer networks in detail.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Computer Network

Here’s a snapshot of the most common advantages and disadvantages of computer network:

Advantages	Disadvantages
1. Sharing of resources and peripherals	1. Security risks and vulnerabilities
2. Facilitates communication and collaboration	2. Dependency on a single server
3. Cost-effective and efficient	3. Network downtime and technical issues
4. Centralized data management and storage	4. Potential for unauthorized access
5. Easy access to information and data	5. Complexity and maintenance requirements

We will now study each of these advantages and disadvantages in detail in the sections below.

Advantages Of Computer Network

A network is very useful for connection and communication purposes. Not just that, it also has many other advantages. Below are some of the prominent ones:

1. Ease Of Accessibility

Computer networks provide easy accessibility to resources, information, and online services from anywhere. Users can work remotely, access educational resources, and retrieve personal files. Communication and collaboration are seamless through email, instant messaging, and video conferencing. Resources can be shared and distributed, reducing costs and enabling efficient utilization. Modern computer networks are easy to explore. So, even if you are a kid or a person new to technology, you'll find it easy to connect.

2. Flexibility

Here, flexibility means that different people will be able to explore different things as per their requirements. For this purpose, computer networks provide you with a wide array of choices to share a particular piece of information. For example, e-mail or messaging apps like WhatsApp.

3. Convenient Resource Sharing

The main aim of a computer network is to enable sharing of resources among its users. You can use resources such as printers, scanners and photocopy machines that can be shared across multiple users. This resource sharing is important for big companies as they can use one single common network to connect with their employees.

4. Connectivity

Computer networks improve connectivity irrespective of a person's location. The pandemic brought this advantage to the forefront, with people regularly using video call apps like Zoom or Google Documents to connect with their friends and colleagues.

5. Security

Computer networks provide security through authorization. Authorization is done via user ID and password. So, it ensures that when we log in, we are only able to do it when there is a perfect match between our details and the details stored in the database.

6. Great Storage Capacity

Organizations have an abundance of data that needs to be stored. For that purpose, they are required to store them in a central server. A central server is a remote server that is accessible to every employee. So, if in case one loses the data, others have it.

7. Reduced Cost

Cost is one of the crucial factors that one needs to consider while evaluating the pros and cons of a particular technology. In networking, a central server is used that enables companies to store files in one place, thus reducing file storage expenses.

8. Enhanced Collaboration

With a computer network, individuals can easily share files, documents, and information with each other, making it easier to work together on projects and tasks. This can lead to increased productivity and efficiency in the workplace. Additionally, computer networks often include communication tools such as email and instant messaging, allowing for real-time communication and collaboration regardless of physical location. Overall, computer networks facilitate seamless collaboration and teamwork.

9. Centralized Data Management

Centralized control allows administrators to manage software updates, backups, and security settings from a single location. This makes data management more organized, especially for large organizations.

10. Scalability

Computer networks can be scaled up easily by adding more devices, users, or resources without major changes to the existing infrastructure. This is especially important for growing businesses.

11. Real-Time Access and Updates

Networks enable real-time data updates and synchronization. Whether it's a shared document or live database, users always see the latest version, minimizing errors and delays.

12. Disaster Recovery

Many organizations use computer networks to implement automated backups and redundancy systems. This ensures data is recoverable in case of system failures or disasters.

13. Remote Access

Employees can log into their work systems from home or while traveling. This increases flexibility and supports hybrid or remote work environments effectively.

14. Efficient Communication

Besides standard email and messaging, networks support tools like VoIP, collaborative whiteboards, and project management apps that streamline communication across departments.

15. Load Distribution

In a networked system, computational tasks or workloads can be distributed across multiple servers or systems, improving performance and reducing the risk of a single point of failure.

16. Automation and Monitoring

Networked systems can be automated for maintenance tasks (e.g., software updates, backups) and monitored continuously for performance or security threats using network monitoring tools.

17. Increased Reliability

By connecting multiple servers or data centers, networks offer redundancy and failover mechanisms that improve uptime and reduce service disruption.

18. Internet of Things (IoT) Integration

Computer networks support the connection of IoT devices like smart thermostats, security cameras, and wearable tech, enabling automation and real-time monitoring in homes and industries.

19. Improved Customer Service

Networks allow customer service teams to access CRM software, chatbots, and support tools from a centralized system, offering faster and more informed support to customers.

Disadvantages Of Computer Networks

While computer networks aid our work, they also come with their own set of disadvantages such as:

1. Lack Of Robustness

Computer networks rely on the main server called the central server. If the central server malfunctions or there is an issue in the central server, then the entire network will stop functioning. So, this is a major disadvantage due to dependency on a single server.

2. Spread Of Computer Virus

As computers in a network are interconnected, there is a high probability that if one of the computers is affected by the virus, others too can get affected. This spread can actually damage the entire system. Also, if the central server gets corrupted, then it's quite dangerous as the network depends on the central server.

3. Costly To Set-up And Maintain

While computer networks save costs in terms of resource sharing and data storage, they also incur considerable implementation costs. Moreover, maintaining computer networks is a costly and time-consuming affair.

4. Lack Of Productivity

Since a network has a lot of advantages and applications, it certainly results in the simultaneous use of many services that cause distraction. Thus, due to employees focusing on a myriad of tasks, productivity issues are quite common.

5. Health Issues

Computer network provides access to a gamut of services including entertainment, gaming, and movies. These result in making you addicted to the content and thus result in overuse of these services. This excessive screen time makes you feel lethargic and causes eye strain and body pain.

6. Lowers The Ability To Retain And Analyze Information

With computer networks storing vast amounts of data and processing basic requests in a fraction of the time, people are losing the ability to retain important information. Even processing basic information is a task, as individuals are becoming increasingly dependent on computer networks to do these tasks for them.

7. Unauthorized Access

When multiple devices are connected to a network, there is a greater potential for unauthorized access and data breaches. Hackers can exploit vulnerabilities in the network infrastructure or gain access to sensitive information through one compromised device. This can lead to the theft of personal or confidential data, financial loss, and damage to the reputation of individuals or organizations. To mitigate this risk, network administrators must implement robust security measures, such as firewalls, encryption, and regular software updates, to protect the network and its connected devices from cyber threats.

8. Privacy Concerns

Network administrators often monitor activity for security and performance. This can lead to concerns about surveillance and personal privacy, especially in corporate or institutional environments.

9. Complex Troubleshooting

Network issues can be difficult to diagnose due to multiple interconnected devices and layers. A small misconfiguration or faulty hardware can disrupt the entire system and may take hours to resolve.

10. Bandwidth Limitations and Congestion

As more users access a network, bandwidth can become saturated. This causes lag, slow data transfers, and interruptions in services like video calls or file sharing, affecting overall efficiency.

11. Technical Expertise Required

Designing, managing, and securing a network requires specialized knowledge. Small businesses or institutions without trained IT staff may struggle to maintain a secure and efficient network.

12. Data Loss Risk During Failures

If proper backups aren't maintained, hardware failures or cyberattacks on the central server can lead to the loss of critical information, which might not be recoverable.

13. Legal and Compliance Issues

Misuse of network resources or data leaks can result in legal action, especially under regulations like GDPR or HIPAA. Organizations must stay compliant, which requires constant monitoring and legal awareness.

Applications Of Computer Network

Now that we’ve studied the key advantages and disadvantages of computer network, let’s take a look at some of the most common applications of a computer network:

Computer networks are the backbone of modern digital communication and are used in a wide range of domains. Below are some key applications of computer networks:

1. Communication

Email, Chat, and Messaging: Services like Gmail, Slack, and WhatsApp rely on computer networks.
Video Conferencing: Tools such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet use networks to connect people worldwide.
Voice over IP (VoIP): Services like Skype or Zoom Phone enable voice communication over the Internet.

2. Resource Sharing

Printers and Scanners: Multiple users in an office can share a single printer or scanner over a network.
File Sharing: Users can access and transfer files stored on other devices (e.g., using FTP, shared drives).

3. Data and Application Sharing

Databases: Centralized databases can be accessed remotely over a network.
Software as a Service (SaaS): Applications like Google Docs, Dropbox, and Office 365 run on cloud servers accessed via networks.

4. Security and Surveillance

CCTV Systems: IP-based cameras transmit video over computer networks for monitoring.
Remote Access and Control: Administrators can monitor and manage systems from remote locations.

5. Business Applications

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP): Tools like SAP and Oracle ERP rely on internal networks.
Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Salesforce and similar tools are cloud-based and depend on networks.

6. Education and E-Learning

Online Classes: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy use computer networks to deliver content.
Virtual Labs: Students can perform simulated experiments over networks.

7. Banking and Financial Services

Online Banking: Internet banking systems depend on secure networks.
Stock Market Trading: Real-time trading platforms connect to exchanges over networks.

8. E-Commerce

Online Shopping: Websites like Amazon, Flipkart, and eBay rely on networks to display products and process transactions.

9. Mobile Applications

Most smartphone apps, including social media, navigation, and weather, require network access to function.

10. Cloud Computing

Data Storage: Services like Google Drive and iCloud store and retrieve data over the Internet.
Cloud Platforms: Platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud host websites and applications.

11. Research and Collaboration

Shared Databases and Research Portals: Enable collaboration among researchers worldwide.
Grid and Distributed Computing: Networks allow sharing of computational power (e.g., Folding@home, SETI@home).

Best Books For Computer Network

If you’re interested in studying more about computer networks, here are some books that you can refer to:

Book Name	Author(s)
Network Programmability and Automation	Jason Edelman, Scott S. Lowe, and Matt Oswalt
Computer Networking: A top-down approach	James Kurose and Keith Ross
Computer Networks	Andrew S. Tanenbaum
Cisco Networking All-in-one for Dummies	Edward Tetz

We hope this will help you in gaining insights into the advantages and disadvantages of computer networks!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What are the pros of computer networks?

Computer networks offer several advantages. Firstly, they allow for easy and efficient communication between devices and users, enabling the sharing of resources such as files, printers, and internet connections. Secondly, computer networks facilitate collaboration and teamwork, as multiple users can work on the same project simultaneously. Additionally, networks provide increased data security through centralized control and monitoring. Furthermore, computer networks enable remote access, allowing users to connect to their work or personal files from anywhere in the world. Lastly, networks enable cost savings by allowing the sharing of expensive hardware and software licenses among multiple users.

Q. What are the cons of computer networks?

While computer networks offer many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. One disadvantage is the potential for network downtime, which can disrupt productivity and cause inconvenience. Additionally, computer networks require regular maintenance and updates to ensure optimal performance and security, which can be time-consuming and costly. Another con is the potential for security breaches and unauthorized access to sensitive data if proper security measures are not in place. Moreover, network congestion can occur when multiple users are accessing the network simultaneously, leading to slower speeds and reduced efficiency. Lastly, computer networks can be complex to set up and manage, requiring technical expertise and resources.

Q. Can computer networks improve productivity?

Yes, computer networks can significantly enhance productivity. By allowing for efficient communication and collaboration, networks enable faster and easier sharing of information and resources. This streamlines workflows and reduces the time spent on manual tasks such as transferring files or printing documents. Additionally, computer networks enable remote access, allowing employees to work from home or while traveling, further increasing productivity. Furthermore, networks facilitate the use of centralized databases and applications, eliminating the need for redundant data entry and ensuring data consistency. Overall, computer networks play a crucial role in boosting productivity in modern workplaces.

Q. Are computer networks secure?

Computer networks can be made secure through the implementation of various security measures. Some common security measures include firewalls, which act as a barrier between the internal network and external threats, and antivirus software, which helps detect and remove malicious software. Additionally, encryption can be used to protect data as it is transmitted over the network, making it difficult for unauthorized individuals to access or intercept sensitive information. Network administrators can also implement strong authentication protocols, such as two-factor authentication, to ensure that only authorized users can access the network. Regular security audits and updates to network infrastructure are also important to address any vulnerabilities and stay ahead of emerging threats. While no network can be completely immune to security breaches, implementing these measures can significantly enhance the security of computer networks.

Q. How is e-commerce an application of a computer network?

E-commerce is an application of a computer network because it relies on the Internet to facilitate online buying and selling. Through a computer network, e-commerce platforms connect buyers and sellers, allowing them to conduct transactions electronically. This network enables customers to browse products, make purchases, and complete transactions securely. Additionally, computer networks enable the transfer of data and information, such as order details and payment information, between the various parties involved in an e-commerce transaction.

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Shivangi Vatsal

Sr. Associate Content Strategist @Unstop

I am a storyteller by nature. At Unstop, I tell stories ripe with promise and inspiration, and in life, I voice out the stories of our four-legged furry friends. Providing a prospect of a good life filled with equal opportunities to students and our pawsome buddies helps me sleep better at night. And for those rainy evenings, I turn to my colors.