10 Advantages and Disadvantages of Computer Network | Drawbacks & Benefits of Computer Network

 

Computer Network: What is it?

A computer network is a system that connects multiple computers via a shared network. Computer networking is essential to businesses and organizations in order to exchange resources and information. Since they must communicate information on a daily basis, it has become crucial for both individuals and corporations.

What use does a Computer Network serve?

It has made it possible to communicate with people anywhere in the world. In actuality, it has altered perceptions about the best ways to communicate, making it more practical. Although networking has numerous potential advantages, there are drawbacks and hazards as well. It is important to weigh these main benefits and drawbacks before putting up a computer network.


You will learn about the 10 Advantages and Disadvantages of Computer Network | Drawbacks & Benefits of Computer Network in this article. You will learn about the benefits and drawbacks of using computer networks from this post.

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Advantages of Computer Network

1. Cost

There are indirect cost savings here even though setting up a computer network requires a large initial investment. 

 

As an example, all connected PCs simply require a single installation of the low-cost networking software. which implies that each user does not need to buy the software on a regular basis.

Furthermore, since data are kept on a central server, there are very less file storage costs.

2. Data Storage

Every piece of information belonging to that particular company will be kept on a distant server that is always accessible. Everyone working with an organization will have access to them.

Additionally, there is a capacity gain because numerous computers are linked together via a central server. 

 

Since all of the information is already kept on the central server, there won't be any issues with data retrieval should one of the employees misplace it. 

3. Connecting Computers

A restricted number of computers that are interconnected with one another can be connected over a single network. Therefore, each computer can operate as a single unit on the network without requiring an ISP account.

Additionally, the kind of network that must be implemented varies based on the workplace's location. In the event that an organization's personnel work there, a Local Area Network (LAN) will do. 

 

A wider Wide Area Network (WAN) is required to link those who work from remote locations. One kind of worldwide network is the internet. 

4. Problem Solving

People all across the world can troubleshoot and fix problems in less time because to computer networking. They offer commercial, education, and medical services. 

 

For instance, the company could launch a blog to draw clients from different areas. Additionally, a computer network can be used to view all of the medical costs in case of an emergency. 

 

5. Reliability

The data kept on the main server is thought to be trustworthy. Similar data can be retrieved on another PC in the event that one PC loses the information. This guarantees that there are no disruptions to the workplace, resulting in efficient operation. 

 

6. Security

A computer network already comes with security and protection. As a result, sensitive and private information is better secured. 

 

Colleagues can benefit from disclosing personal information to one another without fear of being discovered by outsiders. 

 

Even other employees won't be able to examine users' files without their permission. Thus, it may ultimately result in a decrease in fraud. 

7. Flexibility

The flexibility of computer networks is due to a variety of factors. It gives the user the chance to investigate the basic concepts.

Additionally, there are other ways to share information. Emails can be used to send information to multiple recipients at the same time. Information sharing is also possible on social networking sites like Facebook. 

 

Alternatively, files can be uploaded to cloud servers, allowing several devices to access them. Different people may find different information sharing options available on computer networks convenient. 

8. Collaboration

Computer networks facilitate collaboration, particularly in the business sector. Tasks like coordinating social gatherings, establishing connections between teams, and obtaining individual replies can all be completed with ease.

Families, in addition to businesses, can utilize personal networks to plan picnics, exchange images and videos, and create grocery lists without jeopardizing their security. 


9. Resource Sharing

Computer networking allows numerous users to share connected resources like printers, photocopiers, and scanners. 

 

For large firms that need to purchase resources for every employee, this is especially crucial. Businesses can guarantee that all working workers have access to resources by utilizing a shared network.


10. Information Sharing

Unlike in the past, exchanging files across a computer network can be done quickly and easily. 

 

Users can upload files to a cloud server and make them publicly accessible by using cloud services like Dropbox and Google Drive. 

 

Users in remote areas can still access and download the necessary data at any given time. Consequently, saving more time and energy. 

 

 

Disadvantages of Computer Network

1. Robustness

On a network, all of the linked systems are dependent on the master server. Should the server malfunction, the system will no longer function.

Not just the primary server—the entire network will malfunction if there is an issue with the central server or the bridging device. 

 

This is the reason that the majority of large firms maintain a powerful computer as their core server, making maintenance and implementation simple.


2. Independence

Since centralized servers form the foundation of networks, most decisions are made by them. This limits the flexibility of the user to utilize the computer anyway they like.

Additionally, new protocols related to computer networking simplify the process. Users are therefore more likely to rely on computers, even for simple jobs that are impossible to complete by hand.


3. Malware Attack

In essence, a virus can propagate quickly across computers connected to a network because of their connections. 

 

Even in the unlikely event that one computer becomes compromised, the likelihood of the malware spreading to the other systems is very high. In the event that the central server gets compromised, similar incidents may occur. 

 

Any of these could result in corrupted files. The network administrator should do routine malware scans to prevent this.


4. Implementation

Even while computer networks are thought to be economical, in actuality they are not when they are put into use. 

 

A computer network's setup can be costly. The quantity of linked systems determines this. Separate cables and equipment, such as hubs, routers, and switches, are also required.


5. Security

A network-connected computer, as opposed to an isolated one, has numerous security vulnerabilities. because a sizable user base is utilizing the network. Hackers can quickly get access to huge networks, such WANs, by employing specific tools made for this purpose.

However, large firms typically use a variety of security techniques, such firewalls, to prevent theft and other illicit actions.


6. Productivity

The fact that computer networking can significantly lower an organization's productivity is one of its main drawbacks. Employees can use the internet for purposes other than office work when it is available. 

 

Employee stress may be reduced as a result, but productivity loss may increase as a result. As a result, management needs to determine how much computer use is permitted.


7. Maintenance

Regular maintenance is necessary for a computer network to function properly. The issue is that simple abilities are insufficient for this. It requires intricate installations and sophisticated setups. 

 

As a result, it is necessary to assign an experienced and qualified network manager. 

8. Accessibility

Despite the fact that the majority of contemporary computers offer free access, several nations continue to have connectivity problems. 

 

People who live there, especially in underdeveloped nations, struggle with connectivity. True worldwide network reliability is not guaranteed until these issues are fixed. 

9. Multitasking

Multitasking is made possible by computer networks, which is another benefit. Not everyone, though, is able to benefit from this. 

 

The majority of multitaskers tend to lose a significant amount of productivity. Few individuals possess the ability to multitask without sacrificing efficiency. 

 

10. Health Concerns

Gaming is one of the many entertainment alternatives offered by computer networking. While many people find that gaming helps them decompress, prolonged gaming can develop an addiction.

In summary, a gaming addiction can lead to a variety of physical and mental health problems. Obesity and sleeplessness are two of them.