netverk

Netverk is a term used in Norwegian and several Germanic languages to denote a network, a system of interconnected components that exchange information, energy, or goods. In English, the simplest equivalent is network. The concept spans technology, society, and biology.

In information technology, netverk refers to computer networks of varying scope: local area networks, metropolitan networks, and the Internet. Key elements include hosts (computers, devices), network interfaces, routers, switches, transmission media, and communication protocols such as TCP/IP. Networks are organized by topology (star, bus, ring, mesh), scale (PAN, LAN, MAN, WAN), and architecture (client-server, peer-to-peer). Wireless and wired variants exist, with security measures like encryption, authentication, and firewalls.

In social contexts, netverk denotes social networks—structures of relationships among individuals, organizations, or communities, studied for information flow and influence. In biology, networks model interactions among molecules, cells, or species, such as metabolic pathways or gene regulatory networks.

Network theory provides concepts to describe and analyze networks, including nodes, edges, degree, centrality, clustering, and network motifs. Applications include logistics, telecommunications, power grids, and transport systems, where resilience and redundancy are critical.

Historically, netverk developments followed telecommunication advances, from physical lines to packet-switching networks and the modern Internet. The term emphasizes interdependence and connectedness in complex systems.