Unveiling 7 Secret Disadvantages of Computer Networks: What's Not a Perk of Connecting Computers?
In the digital age, a fast and reliable network connection has become essential for businesses and individuals alike. However, increasing network speed is not as straightforward as simply connecting multiple computers. A myriad of factors, from hardware quality to network design and security, play a crucial role in determining actual network performance.
One of the primary limitations is the high cost of setting up and maintaining a network. Network infrastructure, including cables, hardware like Network Interface Cards (NICs), and other equipment, can be expensive to install and maintain, limiting upgrades that might improve speed. Initial setup expenses for a computer network can amount to thousands of dollars, including costs for NICs, Ethernet cables, network switches, routers, server hardware, professional installation, and monthly internet service.
Network complexity is another significant challenge. Managing a large or complex network requires skilled personnel and can be difficult; poor management may lead to performance bottlenecks and inefficiencies. Network complexity introduces operational challenges, requiring specialized knowledge in multiple technical domains. Key administrative burdens include maintaining consistent configuration across network devices, implementing complex routing protocols, coordinating software updates, managing user permissions, troubleshooting connectivity issues, managing technical dependencies, and ensuring disaster recovery procedures.
Security vulnerabilities are amplified in networked systems, with each connected device creating potential entry points for cyber attacks. Especially in wide-area networks (WANs), vulnerable network design can result in hacking or attacks that degrade network speed and reliability. Implementing proper security protocols adds complexity and operational overhead to network management.
Hardware dependencies in networked systems can lead to widespread disruptions if any component fails. Bandwidth constraints restrict the amount of data transmitted across a network within a specific timeframe. Network congestion, caused by factors such as multiple users downloading large files simultaneously or heavy streaming traffic during peak usage hours, can also lead to slower transmission speeds and increased latency.
Environmental interference and poor network design can also impact wireless connections. Wireless NICs are often more susceptible to interference, which can reduce effective network speed. Problems such as lack of centralized management, insufficient connection planning, lack of segmentation, poor IP address management, and inadequate documentation can cause latency, packet loss, and overall poor network performance.
Despite these challenges, the benefits of a fast and reliable network connection are undeniable. Copper cable has a maximum bandwidth of 1 Gbps, while fiber optic cable can transmit data at 100 Gbps. Wi-Fi 6 has a maximum bandwidth of 9.6 Gbps, and 5G can transmit data at 20 Gbps. However, it is essential to invest in these areas to reap the speed benefits of network connectivity.
In summary, increasing network speed is not guaranteed merely by networking systems. Factors such as hardware quality, network design, proper management, security, and environmental interference all critically influence actual network performance. Poor planning and lack of investment in these areas can limit or negate the expected speed benefits of network connectivity.
Streaming content on multiple devices simultaneously might encounter issues due to the high bandwidth required, especially with slower network connections. To ensure seamless streaming, it's essential to invest in improving data-and-cloud-computing resources like faster computers and better network infrastructure.
Regarding data-and-cloud-computing, businesses must plan and allocate sufficient resources to manage increasingly complex networks, employ skilled personnel, and implement robust security protocols to mitigate the risks associated with technology advancements such as streaming.
