computer network.

-         A computer network is a collection of computers connected to each other.

-         It can be done between computers in a home, in a business, across a corporation, and even internationally.

-         The network allows computers to communicate with each other and share resources and information.

-         The Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) designed "Advanced Research Projects Agency NETwork" (ARPANET) for the United States Department of Defense.

-         It was the first computer network in the world in late 1960s.

-         Importance of having a computer network:

o    Information and resource sharing for better throughput.

o    Cost reduction by sharing hardware and software resources.

o    Computer networks provide communication possibilities faster than other facilities.

o    High reliability by having multiple sources of supply.

o    Greater flexibility because of possibility to connect devices.

o    It is the foundation of the Internet. Thus has enabled people to work on the move, and take work home much more efficiently than has ever been possible before.