ITnetværk

ITnetværk, or information technology networks, are systems that connect computing devices to share data, resources, and services. They range from small local networks within an office to large-scale networks spanning regions or globally.

Core components include network hardware such as routers, switches, access points, and servers; transmission media like copper, fiber, and wireless radio; and software for operating systems, network management, and security. The operation relies on standardized protocols, most notably the TCP/IP suite, DNS, HTTP/HTTPS, and email protocols.

Common types include local area networks (LANs) that cover a limited area, wide area networks (WANs) that connect distant locations, metropolitan area networks (MANs), and personal area networks (PANs). Networks can be wired, wireless, or a mix, and may be organized into data centers, campus networks, or cloud-oriented architectures.

Architectures often follow client–server or peer-to-peer models and rely on layered references such as the OSI model or the TCP/IP stack. Addressing uses IP (IPv4 and IPv6), routing, switching, and network services like domain name resolution via DNS.

Network management covers monitoring, configuration, fault handling, and performance optimization, while security measures include firewalls, encryption, access control, VPNs, and intrusion detection. Standards bodies such as IEEE, IETF, and ISO develop interoperable specifications that ensure compatibility and safety across diverse implementations.

Emerging trends include software-defined networking (SDN), network function virtualization (NFV), edge computing, and the ongoing integration of wireless technologies such as 5G. The growing use of cloud services and hybrid networks presents new challenges for governance, privacy, and reliability.