A data network is an electronic communication process that enables the orderly transmission and reception of data, such as letters, spreadsheets, and other types of documents. What distinguishes this type of network from other forms of communication, such as an audio network, is that it is configured to transmit only data. This is in contrast to the voice or audio network, which is generally used for both voice communications and data transmission, such as a fax transmission.
Military command and control systems, such as those used on the bridges of Navy ships, are examples of private data networks.
There are two basic types of data networks in operation today. A private network is essentially a local area network designed to allow data transmission between the various departments of a particular entity, such as a company. All company locations can be included as nodes in the network and can communicate through a common server that acts as a repository for all data files used in the company. There are also examples of private networks that allow data to be shared between multiple companies that are part of the same profession or industry. Connections can be achieved by creating a virtual private network, or VPN, that resides on a master server, or by provisioning the connections through a communications provider.
Public data networks may use cell towers to transmit data over long distances.
Unlike a private data network, a public network will be widely accessible to residential and corporate customers of a given carrier’s network. Setting up this type of network may involve the use of multiple servers and connecting to the network through several different processes. Often the network will require some type of subscription process, such as a monthly usage fee. Upon receipt of the fee, the service provider will enable the creation of access credentials that will allow the consumer to access authorized portions of the network and participate in various commonly data-related functions. This includes the ability to retrieve stored documents, create backup copies of important data files, and archive data such as historical information or other data deemed valuable for future applications.
