1.3.2. Networks

A network is a collection of transmitters, receivers and transceivers that communicate with each other. It is a collection of distributed, intelligent machines that share data and information interconnected lines of communication being either bound or unbound. Digital networks consist of one or more routers that work together to transmit information to the correct user. An analogue network consists of one or more switches that establish a connection between two or more users. For both types of network, repeaters may be necessary to amplify or recreate the signal when it is being transmitted over long distances. This is to combat attenuation that can render the signal indistinguishable from noise.