What are Network Services?
Network services are the functions provided to enhance communication between two points attached to the network. The most common arrangement is the use of a dedicated server that will provide the capability to implement multiple functions to serve the network users. The dedicated server's features can be used by network users who are accessing the server components while using client owned components which can be used or installed on other electronic devices. It is also possible that both client and server elements be operable from one device.
A network consists of more than one computer linked together by shared communications and information. A network can consist of as little as two computers in a home linked together or it can be as large as hundreds of computers linked together for a business which spans the globe.
The purpose of networking computers together is to allow an efficient exchange of information between two points across the Internet. Exchanging information is often a process of entering data into a storage base as well as manipulating the data and retrieving it from storage to present it to one or more other recipients. This process is achieved by using applications that work within the established network.
Communication between one or more points is made possible by using one of two configurations. The first configuration is a client-server network. The second possible configuration is a peer to peer network. Both configurations have a set up defined by network protocols defined by the applications in use.
Network services start most often with the assignment of an identity to a computer or electronic device that acts as a portal to the Internet. Identities of devices are associated with Internet Protocol addresses or IP addresses. The IP address is a translation of numerical information used by the Domain Name System or DNS which allows multiple entities to exist on the Internet for communication exchanges while each remaining unique.
The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol or DHCP then assigns the unique configuration of networking identities and information so as to allow a functional exchange of data between network hosts.
Servers are also incorporated into a network to attend to the purpose of confirming identifications of network users as well as authenticating user information. Identification and authentication are necessary network services in order to customize and permit user account profile set up and use. The authentication servers also serve as a valuable resource for gathering information as the servers can capture information from users useful in providing statistical data about users and their network usage.
Some of the most frequently used network services provided to network users include the ability to use electronic mail for correspondence, print to a common printer shared by many computers and create a filing system on a shared drive. Network services often require the setup of profiles along with permission assignments in order to regulate and protect shared information, resources and services.
The World Wide Web is the largest network service recognizable by the majority of computer users. Voice over Internet Protocol and video on demand are both network services. The ability to play online games individually or as a group of individuals gaming together in a massive multiplayer conglomeration both rely upon network services.
Simple Network Management Protocol is also a network service as are file servers and directory services. Instant messaging or chat features are enabled by network services, too.
Any designation of hosting services involves the setup of a network along with its accompanying services. Internet, web, electronic mail and DNS hosting are all reliant upon network services.
Network services are in use by millions of people every day at private or public levels. Networks are used by small intimate groups for personal matters inside a household and also to conduct business operations. Networks can be as large as deemed necessary when established and can grow larger as network service needs increase.
Network services are used by academic institutions, governments, corporations, small businesses, private companies, households and many more. Communication is in constant demand by millions of entities across the globe and network service providers function to meet that need.
To meet your business' network requirements search for network service providers in Phoenix, Indianapolis, Birmingham and Portland.