Networking computers Benefits/Drawbacks

Networking computers Benefits/Drawbacks

1. Benefits

   • sharing files is easier
   • Can share the same hardware (eg. printers) between multiple devices
   • You can install/update software at the same time
   • You can communicate across the network cheap + easy. E.g email
   • User accounts can be stored centrally, so can log in from any device on network.

2. Drawbacks

   • Can be expensive/ often need extra hardware
   • Easier to hack
   • Malware can easily be spread between computers
   • Some networks are depndent on 1+ servers. If these go down, can be very disruptive for people trying to use the network.
   • Large networks are very hard to manage. May need to employ a specialist to maintain them.