Jan's Computer Basics:7-1 Communications/Networks

Computer Basics

7 - Computer to Computer: Intro

Computer communication is the transmission of data and information over a communications channel between two computers, which can be several different things.

Two computers linked with lightning

Communications between computers can be as simple as cabling two computers to the same printer. It can be as complex as a computer at NASA sending messages through an elaborate system of relays and satellites to tell a computer on Mars how to drive around without hitting the rocks.

Depending on the context, for computer communications you might use the terms:

Data Communications for transmission of data and information over a communications channel

Telecommunications for any long-distance communications, especially television

Teleprocessing for accessing computer files located elsewhere

Where you are: JegsWorks > Lessons > Computer Basics
	1. Computer Types
	2. Applications
	3. Input
	4. Processing
	5. Output
	6. Storage
	7. Computer to Computer Intro Transmission Media Modems Software Networks Network Configurations Network Servers Quiz
	8. System Software
	9. Programming

	10. What You See
	11. Hands On!
	12. On Your Own

	Search Glossary Appendix

Communications Channel

A communications channel, also called a communications line or link, is the path that the data follows as it is transmitted from one computer to another.

Below is an animation of a communications channel at work. A PC is sending a message to a host computer clear across the country. Notice the variety of transmission methods used: telephone lines, satellite links, microwave relay. This is a simplified version of what really goes on! (The animation runs 10 times and stops. To restart it, use your browser's Refresh command.)

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~~ 1 Cor. 10:31 ...whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. ~~

Last updated: 22 Jan 2008