The benefits of networking computers and other devices include lowered costs and increased productivity. In a network, resources can be shared to reduce data duplication and data corruption.

Require Fewer Peripherals

The figure shows that many devices can be connected on a network. Each computer on the network does not need to have its own printer or backup device. Multiple printers can be set up in a central location and shared among the network users. All network users send print jobs to a central print server that manages the print requests. The print server can distribute print jobs over multiple printers or queue jobs that require a specific printer.

Increase Communication Capabilities

Networks provide several different collaboration tools that can be used to communicate between network users. Online collaboration tools include email, forums and chats, voice and video, and instant messaging. With these tools, users can communicate with friends, family, and colleagues.

Avoid File Duplication and Corruption

A server manages network resources. Servers store data and share it with users on a network. Confidential or sensitive data can be protected and shared with the users who have permission to access that data. Document tracking software can be used to prevent users from overwriting files or changing files that others are accessing at the same time.

Lower Cost Licensing

Application licensing can be expensive for individual computers. Many software vendors offer site licenses for networks, which can dramatically reduce the cost of software. The site license allows a group of people or an entire organization to use the application for a single fee.

Centralize Administration

Centralized administration reduces the number of people needed to manage the devices and data on the network, reducing time and cost to the company. Individual network users do not need to manage their own data and devices. One administrator can control the data, devices, and permissions of users on the network. Backing up data is easier because the data is stored in a central location.

Conserve Resources

Data processing can be distributed across many computers to prevent one computer from becoming overloaded with processing tasks.