What are commonly used network services?

Commonly used network services encompass a range of functionalities that facilitate communication, resource sharing, and access to information across networks. These services include:

  1. Email: Email services enable users to send and receive messages electronically over networks, often using protocols like SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) for sending and IMAP/POP3 for receiving emails. Email is widely used for communication in both personal and business contexts.
  2. Web Hosting: Web hosting services provide storage space and server resources for hosting websites and web applications. They enable users to publish content on the internet, accessible via web browsers using protocols like HTTP and HTTPS.
  3. File Transfer: File transfer services allow users to exchange files between devices or over networks. Protocols like FTP (File Transfer Protocol), SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol), and HTTP/S are commonly used for secure and efficient file transfer operations.
  4. Remote Access: Remote access services enable users to connect to and control devices or systems located at remote locations over networks. Examples include Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) for accessing desktops remotely and Virtual Private Network (VPN) services for secure access to private networks over the internet.

Common network services describe the fundamental capabilities provided by computer networks to enable communication, resource sharing, and access to distributed resources:

  1. Communication Services: These services facilitate communication between users or devices, including email, instant messaging (IM), voice over IP (VoIP), and video conferencing. They enable real-time and asynchronous communication over networks.
  2. Resource Sharing Services: Resource sharing services allow multiple users to access and utilize shared resources, such as printers, files, and storage devices. Network File System (NFS) and Common Internet File System (CIFS) are examples of protocols used for file sharing over networks.
  3. Security Services: Security services protect network resources and data from unauthorized access, breaches, and cyber threats. They include authentication mechanisms, encryption protocols, firewall protection, and intrusion detection systems (IDS).
  4. Management Services: Management services enable administrators to monitor, configure, and control network devices and services. They include network management protocols like SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) for monitoring and managing network devices centrally.

The four types of network services broadly categorize the primary functionalities and purposes served by networks:

  1. Communication Services: These services enable users to communicate and collaborate over networks using various media, including text, voice, and video. Examples include email, instant messaging, VoIP, and video conferencing.
  2. Resource Sharing Services: Resource sharing services allow users to access and utilize shared resources distributed across the network. This includes file sharing, printer sharing, and access to centralized databases or storage systems.
  3. Information Services: Information services provide access to databases, repositories, and information resources available over networks. Examples include web hosting services, content delivery networks (CDNs), and online databases accessible via web browsers or specialized applications.
  4. Security Services: Security services protect network resources, data, and communications from unauthorized access, attacks, and breaches. They include encryption, authentication mechanisms, access control, and network monitoring tools to detect and respond to security incidents.

Among different types of networks, the Internet is the most commonly used network globally. The Internet connects millions of devices worldwide, facilitating communication, information access, and resource sharing on a massive scale. It supports various network services and applications, including email, web browsing, social media, online banking, and e-commerce, among others. Its decentralized nature and extensive infrastructure make it a ubiquitous platform for global connectivity and collaboration.

The most common network applications used span a wide range of functionalities and purposes across different types of networks:

  1. Web Browsing: Web browsers enable users to access and navigate websites hosted on the internet, providing information, services, and interactive content.
  2. Email: Email applications allow users to send, receive, and manage electronic messages, facilitating communication for personal and business purposes.
  3. Social Media: Social media platforms enable users to connect, share content, and communicate with others globally, fostering social interactions and community engagement.
  4. Streaming Media: Streaming applications deliver audio, video, and multimedia content over networks in real-time or on-demand, supporting entertainment, education, and communication.
  5. Online Banking: Banking applications provide secure access to financial services and transactions over networks, including account management, payments, and transfers.
  6. E-commerce: E-commerce platforms facilitate online buying and selling of goods and services, supporting transactions, product browsing, and customer interactions over networks.

These applications leverage network services and technologies to deliver diverse functionalities and user experiences, contributing to the interconnected digital ecosystem of modern society.