Networks in context

Students must be able to explain the central role networks play in our interconnected world.[edit]

Digital networks, also known as computer networks, play a central role in our interconnected world because they allow us to communicate and share information with each other on a global scale. With digital networks, we can connect to the internet and access a vast amount of information, communicate with people all around the world through email, instant messaging, and social media, and use online tools and services to accomplish tasks and collaborate with others. Digital networks also enable the development and use of a wide range of digital technologies, such as smartphones, tablets, and smart devices, which have transformed many aspects of our lives and made it easier to connect and communicate with others. Overall, digital networks have greatly expanded our ability to access and share information, communicate with others, and make use of digital technologies, making them a central and essential part of our interconnected world.

Here are a few examples of how digital networks play a central role in our interconnected world:

Communication: Digital networks enable us to communicate with people all around the world in real-time through email, instant messaging, and social media. These platforms allow us to stay in touch with friends and family, collaborate with colleagues, and connect with new people who share our interests.

Access to information: Digital networks allow us to access a vast amount of information from all around the world through the internet. We can use search engines to find information on almost any topic, read news articles and blogs, and access online libraries and databases.

Online services: Digital networks enable the development and use of a wide range of online services, such as e-commerce platforms, streaming services, and cloud-based productivity tools. These services allow us to shop, watch movies and TV shows, and collaborate with others online.

Smart devices: Digital networks are also essential for the operation of many smart devices, such as smart thermostats, smart speakers, and smart appliances. These devices use the internet to connect to the cloud and receive updates, as well as to communicate with other devices in the home.

Overall, these examples illustrate how digital networks have greatly expanded our ability to communicate, access information, and make use of digital technologies, making them a central and essential part of our interconnected world.

Students must be able to discuss the requirements of networks by considering them within a given contextual lens.[edit]

There are several requirements that networks must meet in order to function effectively within a given contextual lens. Some of these requirements include:

Connectivity: Networks must be able to connect different devices, systems, or locations in order to facilitate communication and exchange.
Scalability: Networks must be able to accommodate growth and change in order to support the needs of an expanding or evolving user base.
Reliability: Networks must be dependable and able to operate smoothly, even in the face of disruptions or failures.
Security: Networks must be able to protect against unauthorized access or attacks in order to safeguard sensitive information and assets.
Performance: Networks must be able to support the demands of their users in terms of speed, capacity, and other performance-related factors.

The specific requirements of networks can vary depending on the context in which they are used. For example, a network used for critical infrastructure (such as a power grid) may have different requirements than a network used for social networking (such as a platform like Facebook). It is important for network designers and administrators to consider the needs and constraints of their specific context in order to ensure that the network is able to meet its goals and objectives.