Networking is the process of connecting devices so they can communicate, share information, and access resources. When two or more devices—like laptops, mobiles, servers, or printers—exchange data, a network is formed. Without networking, the modern digital world simply wouldn’t function.
Why Networking Matters
Every activity you perform online—opening Instagram, sending a WhatsApp message, booking a cab, or making an online payment—depends on networking. It ensures your data reaches the right place at the right time.
How Networking Works
When you request something from the internet, your device sends data in the form of tiny packets. These packets travel through cables, routers, switches, and different networks until they reach the server. The server then sends the response back to you the same way.
It’s similar to how a courier service works:
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You send a package (data packet)
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It passes through different delivery centers (network devices)
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The package reaches the correct address (destination IP)
Networking does something very similar—just at the speed of light.
Real-World Examples of Networking
1. Home Wi-Fi Network
At your home, the Wi-Fi router connects:
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Your mobile
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Laptop
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Smart TV
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Alexa/Smart appliances
All these devices share the same internet connection. This is a simple Local Area Network (LAN).
Example:
When you cast a YouTube video from your phone to your Smart TV, they communicate over the home network.
2. Office Network
Companies rely heavily on networking. A typical office network connects:
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Workstations
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Printers
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Servers
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CCTV cameras
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Wi-Fi access points
Employees share files, print documents, access internal systems, and communicate through the same network.
Example:
If you save a file on a shared company drive and your colleague opens it instantly, that’s networking at work.
3. Online Shopping
When you place an order on Amazon:
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Your device talks to Amazon’s servers
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Payment gateways verify your transaction
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Notification services send real-time updates
All of this happens through multiple interconnected networks worldwide.
4. ATMs and Banking
ATMs connect to the bank’s central servers over secure networks.
Every time you withdraw cash:
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The ATM sends your card details to the bank
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The server verifies your account
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The ATM receives approval and dispenses money
This communication takes only a few seconds because of efficient networking.
5. The Internet (Largest Network)
The internet is nothing but millions of networks connected together globally.
Every website you visit lives on a server somewhere in the world, and networking is what brings it to your screen.