What is a Data Network – Definition and Uses

A data network is a set of personal computers that utilize a series of shared communication protocols over computer networks for the purpose of shared resources provided or located on a single network node. The term “data network” generally refers to any type of network that makes use of a variety of communication protocols over a common pool of devices. In recent years, the number of devices that are now capable of accessing the Internet in this manner has dramatically increased. Data transmission over such networking systems typically constitutes one-way connectivity.

There are three different types of data networks: analog, digital and packet-switching. Analog networks utilize signals that are transmitted through electrical circuits. Digital networks on the other hand, employ digitally-transmitted signals (transmitted in bits instead of the traditional binary digits) in order to transmit large amounts of data over short distances. Packet-switching is the most popular form used in contemporary data networks because it provides a mechanism for transmitting large volumes of data in a low-cost, reliable and efficient manner. It can be done using either RF or IP technologies, depending on the requirements of the particular system. However, both types employ transmission via waves that have been converted into digital form.

To understand how packet-switching networking works, it is important to understand how information is sent and received over such systems. Packets are first separated into smaller entities known as packets. The size of a packet depends on its content. If a file is being transmitted, for instance, a bigger packet is needed in order to ensure its delivery to the recipient’s machine. After being separated into small packets, the packets are then allowed to travel along a wireline or cable until they reach their destination. The process of sending and receiving information over such networks consist of a number of steps.

One of the first things that happens when the data flow is started in a data network is that the nodes become accessible through a local area network (LAN) or virtual private network (VPN). Some examples of VPNs are the ones provided by certain corporations, like Cisco. After a node is made accessible, other computers on the same LAN will connect to it by requesting its services.

After the communication is established between peers, the data network is able to transmit messages to one another by using either the same or separate methods for data transmission. This can be done in the form of a simple data transmission over one system or many different systems. Data networks are an example of how any two computers can communicate with each other. There are a lot of applications that make use of this kind of network. Some examples of these are email, instant messaging and chat rooms.

Another form of networks consist of networks of devices. Examples of such devices are digital cameras, microphones, and video game consoles. This kind of data networking usually works with the help of a Local Area Network (LAN). To understand how this works, it helps to know that the devices have their own private Local Area Network that is secured. When devices on a LAN to share resources, they can share information back and forth without being restricted to just one network.