Software Components in Computer Networks
The software components of a computer network are crucial for its operation and management. The primary aspects covered in this section are:
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Network Operating System (NOS): This is a specialized OS designed to handle networking functions, managing network resources and services, such as file storage, printer access, and user authentication. Examples include Windows Server and Linux.
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Protocols: Protocols are standardized sets of rules that dictate how data is transmitted between devices in a network. The most widely used protocol is TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol), which ensures reliable communication of data packets between computers.
Understanding these software components is essential, as they form the backbone of network functionality, allowing seamless communication, resource sharing, and data management across a network.