Networking - What it is and Why You Need to Know It?

What is Networking?

Networking can be understood in two main concepts: 1) the process of connecting or building relationships with people to exchange information and opportunities, and 2) the process of connecting computers to exchange data and resources. Both of these concepts sound very similar, even though one has to do with people and the other is concerned with computers or devices. This is because, in a network (be it person-to-person or computer-to-computer), there are two main actions we can't ignore: connection and exchange of information. Without these two actions in place, we can't have a network. The reason you can open YouTube on your phone and watch your favorite music videos is that a network has been established, which means there is a connection and there is an exchange of information between your phone, the router, the Internet Service Provider, and YouTube's server.

Why is networking important?

Networking is important because we are not meant to exist alone. As humans, we are naturally wired to connect and exchange information with one another. Computer networking is the digital extension of that instinct. It allows us to send emails, WhatsApp messages, and share files instantly and globally. Without the connection and exchange of data among devices and servers, it would be practically impossible to make video calls with your long-time friend in Canada or send that important email to your supervisor explaining why you need more time to complete the project. In short, computer networking is important because it makes global communication possible.
While it is great that you can communicate and share resources due to the power of networking, you must also understand how the network enables you to accomplish these tasks. Knowing networking basics helps you solve everyday issues like:

"Why is my Wi-Fi not working?"
"Why is my internet slow?" and so on.

Learning networking equips you with the knowledge to use, secure, and even build these systems that power your digital life. And in a world that runs on communication, that’s a skill worth having.