Information technology networks connect computers to share data, files and other resources. They use a system of rules known as communication protocols to send information using physical and wireless technologies. These networks are taught in degree programs that teach information technology.

A network topology is the way that a network is arranged to form a connection between systems and devices in a variety of ways, including bus, ring, mesh, fully connected (or complete) and star, hierarchical and tree. These kinds of structures have distinct advantages, disadvantages and prices for the company that utilizes them. A topology can be physical or logical, and may be a private or a public one.

In a computer network, the central component (such as a hub, switch, or router) connects to other computers that transmit or receive messages. These computers are called nodes, and the central component is referred to as a server. This is among the most commonly used network configurations, but it comes with a few drawbacks like one cable break that can cut off communications.

A network server is a computer that stores software and files that are shared by multiple users of the network. Servers typically operate on a model of client-server where the clients represent the click here for more info desktop applications of the users and the servers process data in real time. As businesses demand more availability of their critical data, IT staff may be required to design a high availability cluster that processes data in a redundant manner and is resilient so that it is able to continue functioning even if one component fails.