Difference Between Computer Networks and Distributed Systems Last Updated : 23 Jul, 2025 Comments Improve Suggest changes Like Article Like Report A computer network is a group of interconnected computers that share resources and data. Distributed systems, while similar, consist of autonomous computers working together to perform tasks. These systems form the backbone of modern digital communication and processing. Yet, they serve different purposes and operate under different principles. In this article, we will explore the differences between computer networks and distributed systems. Important Topics for Computer Networks vs. Distributed Systems What are Computer Networks?What are Distributed Systems?Differences between Computer Networks and Distributed SystemsUse Cases of Computer NetworksUse Cases of Distributed SystemsChallenges for Computer Networks and Distributed SystemsWhat are Computer Networks?Computer networks connect multiple computers to share data, resources, and communication efficiently. They enable devices to communicate regardless of their physical or geographical locations. By linking computers through various mediums, networks facilitate the flow of information across different platforms and users. Types of Networks: Networks vary by size and scope. Local Area Networks (LAN) connect computers within a small area like an office building. Wide Area Networks (WAN) cover broader geographic areas, such as cities or regions.Components: Essential components of computer networks include routers, switches, hubs, and modems. These devices help direct data to appropriate destinations, ensuring effective communication between computers.Protocols: Networks operate based on set rules or protocols. The most common include TCP/IP, which guides how data is packaged and transmitted over the network.Connectivity Media: Networks can be wired using cables like Ethernet or optical fiber. They can also be wireless, using radio waves or infrared signals.Functionality: The primary function of computer networks is to enable resource sharing, including files, printers, and internet connections. This sharing enhances productivity and accessibility.What are Distributed Systems?Distributed systems are networks of independent computers that work together to perform complex tasks. These systems appear as a single cohesive unit to users, even though the processing is spread across multiple physical machines. This structure allows distributed systems to handle large-scale computations efficiently and reliably. Key elements of distributed systems include: Transparency: Distributed systems are designed to hide the complexity of processes from the user. This makes the system appear as a single entity, despite being a collection of independent components.Scalability: These systems can easily be scaled up by adding more machines. Scalability improves performance and accommodates growth without disrupting existing operations.Fault Tolerance: Distributed systems are resilient to failures. If one component fails, the system can reroute tasks or replicate data to continue functioning without significant downtime.Resource Sharing: Computers in a distributed system share resources such as processing power and data storage. This sharing is managed seamlessly to enhance overall system efficiency.Decentralization: Unlike traditional centralized systems, distributed systems do not have a single central controller. Decisions and control are often spread across various nodes, which enhances flexibility and resistance to attacks.Differences between Computer Networks and Distributed SystemsHere are the key differences between computer networks and distributed systems: AspectComputer NetworksDistributed SystemsPurposeThe primary purpose of computer networks is to enable communication and resource sharing among devices.Distributed systems are designed to perform complex tasks by distributing the workload across multiple nodes.ControlComputer networks often have centralized devices for control, like routers or servers.Distributed systems operate with decentralized control, spreading functions across various nodes.ComplexityComputer networks are typically less complex, focusing mainly on connectivity and communication.Distributed systems are more complex, managing not just communication but also the computation process.TransparencyTransparency is not a primary concern in computer networks; users may be aware of the underlying network.Distributed systems provide transparency, making the distributed nature of the process invisible to the user.ScalabilityWhile scalable, computer networks may require significant reconfiguration to handle growth.Distributed systems are inherently scalable, designed to easily add more resources without major changes.Fault ToleranceComputer networks can be vulnerable to points of failure that might disrupt the entire network.Distributed systems are highly fault-tolerant, often designed to continue operation despite individual failures.Resource UtilizationIn computer networks, resource sharing is limited to bandwidth, data storage, and peripheral devices.In distributed systems, resource sharing includes processing power and software, optimizing task execution.Use Cases of Computer NetworksBelow are the use cases of computer networks: Office Networks: Businesses use local area networks (LANs) to connect employee computers and printers. This setup enhances collaboration and resource sharing within the workplace.Internet Access: Home Wi-Fi networks provide Internet connectivity to various devices. These networks allow multiple users to browse the web, stream videos, and download files simultaneously.Data Centers: Data centers use networked servers to manage and store vast amounts of data. These are crucial for hosting websites, backing up data, and cloud storage services.Use Cases of Distributed SystemsCloud Computing: Services like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure use distributed computing to offer scalable resources. Users can access computing power and storage without managing physical servers.E-commerce Platforms: Websites like Amazon and eBay distribute their operations across multiple servers and data centers. This distribution handles high traffic volumes and transaction loads efficiently.Scientific Research: Projects like SETI@home use volunteer computers worldwide to process large datasets for research. This collective processing power aids in complex computations like space observations.Challenges for Computer Networks and Distributed SystemsBoth computer networks and distributed systems face a range of challenges that can impact their efficiency, security, and scalability. These challenges are critical to address to ensure that the networks and systems remain robust and capable of supporting user needs effectively. Key challenges for computer network and distributed system are : Security Risks: Both systems are vulnerable to cyber threats. Securing vast networks and distributed systems is complex.Complex Configuration: Setting up and maintaining these systems requires sophisticated configuration and ongoing management.Scalability Issues: Although designed to scale, rapidly increasing demands can strain both networks and systems.Interoperability: Ensuring different components work together seamlessly is often challenging.Performance Bottlenecks: High traffic volumes can overwhelm network resources, leading to performance issues.Cost: Expanding and upgrading infrastructure can be costly, especially for large-scale deployments. Comment More infoAdvertise with us D doriancray13 Follow Improve Article Tags : Computer Networks Similar Reads Computer Network Tutorial A Computer Network is a system where two or more devices are linked together to share data, resources and information. These networks can range from simple setups, like connecting two devices in your home, to massive global systems, like the Internet. Below are some uses of computer networksSharing 6 min read Computer Network BasicsBasics of Computer NetworkingA computer network is a collection of interconnected devices that share resources and information. These devices can include computers, servers, printers, and other hardware. Networks allow for the efficient exchange of data, enabling various applications such as email, file sharing, and internet br 10 min read Types of Computer NetworksA computer network is a system that connects many independent computers to share information (data) and resources. The integration of computers and other different devices allows users to communicate more easily. It is a collection of two or more computer systems that are linked together. A network 7 min read Introduction to InternetComputers and their structures are tough to approach, and it is made even extra tough when you want to recognize phrases associated with the difficulty this is already utilized in regular English, Network, and the net will appear to be absolutely wonderful from one some other, however, they may seem 10 min read Types of Network TopologyNetwork topology refers to the arrangement of different elements like nodes, links, or devices in a computer network. Common types of network topology include bus, star, ring, mesh, and tree topologies, each with its advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will discuss different types of n 11 min read Network DevicesNetwork devices are physical devices that allow hardware on a computer network to communicate and interact with each other. Network devices like hubs, repeaters, bridges, switches, routers, gateways, and brouter help manage and direct data flow in a network. They ensure efficient communication betwe 9 min read What is OSI Model? - Layers of OSI ModelThe OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Model is a set of rules that explains how different computer systems communicate over a network. OSI Model was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The OSI Model consists of 7 layers and each layer has specific functions and re 13 min read TCP/IP ModelThe TCP/IP model is a framework that is used to model the communication in a network. It is mainly a collection of network protocols and organization of these protocols in different layers for modeling the network.It has four layers, Application, Transport, Network/Internet and Network Access.While 7 min read Difference Between OSI Model and TCP/IP ModelData communication is a process or act in which we can send or receive data. Understanding the fundamental structures of networking is crucial for anyone working with computer systems and communication. For data communication two models are available, the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) Model, an 4 min read Physical LayerPhysical Layer in OSI ModelThe physical Layer is the bottom-most layer in the Open System Interconnection (OSI) Model, responsible for the physical and electrical transmission of data. It consists of various network components such as power plugs, connectors, receivers, cable types, etc. The physical layer sends data bits fro 4 min read Types of Network TopologyNetwork topology refers to the arrangement of different elements like nodes, links, or devices in a computer network. Common types of network topology include bus, star, ring, mesh, and tree topologies, each with its advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will discuss different types of n 11 min read Transmission Modes in Computer Networks (Simplex, Half-Duplex and Full-Duplex)Transmission modes also known as communication modes, are methods of transferring data between devices on buses and networks designed to facilitate communication. They are classified into three types: Simplex Mode, Half-Duplex Mode, and Full-Duplex Mode. In this article, we will discuss Transmission 6 min read Types of Transmission MediaTransmission media is the physical medium through which data is transmitted from one device to another within a network. These media can be wired or wireless. The choice of medium depends on factors like distance, speed, and interference. In this article, we will discuss the transmission media. In t 9 min read Data Link LayerData Link Layer in OSI ModelThe data link layer is the second layer from the bottom in the OSI (Open System Interconnection) network architecture model. Responsible for the node-to-node delivery of data within the same local network. Major role is to ensure error-free transmission of information. Also responsible for encoding, 4 min read What is Switching?Switching is the process of transferring data packets from one device to another in a network, or from one network to another, using specific devices called switches. A computer user experiences switching all the time for example, accessing the Internet from your computer device, whenever a user req 5 min read Virtual LAN (VLAN)Virtual LAN (VLAN) is a concept in which we can divide the devices logically on layer 2 (data link layer). Generally, layer 3 devices divide the broadcast domain but the broadcast domain can be divided by switches using the concept of VLAN. A broadcast domain is a network segment in which if a devic 7 min read Framing in Data Link LayerFrames are the units of digital transmission, particularly in computer networks and telecommunications. Frames are comparable to the packets of energy called photons in the case of light energy. Frame is continuously used in Time Division Multiplexing process. Framing is a point-to-point connection 6 min read Error Control in Data Link LayerData-link layer uses the techniques of error control simply to ensure and confirm that all the data frames or packets, i.e. bit streams of data, are transmitted or transferred from sender to receiver with certain accuracy. Using or providing error control at this data link layer is an optimization, 4 min read Flow Control in Data Link LayerFlow control is design issue at Data Link Layer. It is a technique that generally observes the proper flow of data from sender to receiver. It is very essential because it is possible for sender to transmit data or information at very fast rate and hence receiver can receive this information and pro 4 min read Piggybacking in Computer NetworksPiggybacking is the technique of delaying outgoing acknowledgment temporarily and attaching it to the next data packet. When a data frame arrives, the receiver waits and does not send the control frame (acknowledgment) back immediately. The receiver waits until its network layer moves to the next da 5 min read Network LayerNetwork Layer in OSI ModelThe Network Layer is the 5th Layer from the top and the 3rd layer from the Bottom of the OSI Model. It is one of the most important layers which plays a key role in data transmission. The main job of this layer is to maintain the quality of the data and pass and transmit it from its source to its de 5 min read Introduction of Classful IP AddressingClassful IP addressing is an obsolete method for allocating IP addresses and dividing the available IP address space across networks. It was used from 1981 to 1993 until the introduction of CIDR (Based on Prefixes rather than classes). Classful method categorizes IP addresses into five classes (A, B 10 min read Classless Addressing in IP AddressingThe Network address identifies a network on the internet. Using this, we can find a range of addresses in the network and total possible number of hosts in the network. Mask is a 32-bit binary number that gives the network address in the address block when AND operation is bitwise applied on the mas 7 min read What is an IP Address?Imagine every device on the internet as a house. For you to send a letter to a friend living in one of these houses, you need their home address. In the digital world, this home address is what we call an IP (Internet Protocol) Address. It's a unique string of numbers separated by periods (IPv4) or 14 min read IPv4 Datagram HeaderIP stands for Internet Protocol and v4 stands for Version Four (IPv4). IPv4 was the primary version brought into action for production within the ARPANET in 1983. IP version four addresses are 32-bit integers which will be expressed in decimal notation. In this article, we will discuss about IPv4 da 4 min read Difference Between IPv4 and IPv6IPv4 and IPv6 are two versions of the system that gives devices a unique address on the internet, known as the Internet Protocol (IP). IP is like a set of rules that helps devices send and receive data online. Since the internet is made up of billions of connected devices, each one needs its own spe 7 min read Difference between Private and Public IP addressesIP Address or Internet Protocol Address is a type of address that is required to communicate one computer with another computer for exchanging information, file, webpage, etc. Public and Private IP address are two important parts of device identity. In this article, we will see the differences betwe 6 min read Introduction To SubnettingSubnetting is the process of dividing a large network into smaller networks called "subnets." Subnets provide each group of devices with their own space to communicate, which ultimately helps the network to work easily. This also boosts security and makes it easier to manage the network, as each sub 8 min read What is Routing?The process of choosing a path across one or more networks is known as Network Routing. Nowadays, individuals are more connected on the internet and hence, the need to use Routing Communication is essential.Routing chooses the routes along which Internet Protocol (IP) packets get from their source t 10 min read Network Layer ProtocolsNetwork Layer is responsible for the transmission of data or communication from one host to another host connected in a network. Rather than describing how data is transferred, it implements the technique for efficient transmission. In order to provide efficient communication protocols are used at t 9 min read Transport LayerTransport Layer in OSI ModelThe transport layer, or layer 4 of the OSI model, controls network traffic between hosts and end systems to guarantee full data flows. It is positioned between the network and session layers in the OSI paradigm. The data packets must be taken and sent to the appropriate machine by the network layer. 5 min read Transport Layer ProtocolsThe transport layer is the fourth layer in the OSI model and the second layer in the TCP/IP model. The transport layer provides with end to end connection between the source and the destination and reliable delivery of the services. Therefore transport layer is known as the end-to-end layer. The tra 9 min read What is TCP (Transmission Control Protocol)?Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) is a connection-oriented protocol for communications that helps in the exchange of messages between different devices over a network. It is one of the main protocols of the TCP/IP suite. In OSI model, it operates at the transport layer(Layer 4). It lies between th 5 min read User Datagram Protocol (UDP)User Datagram Protocol (UDP) is a Transport Layer protocol. UDP is a part of the Internet Protocol suite, referred to as UDP/IP suite. Unlike TCP, it is an unreliable and connectionless protocol. So, there is no need to establish a connection before data transfer. The UDP helps to establish low-late 10 min read Session Layer & Presentation LayerSession Layer in OSI modelThe Session Layer is the 5th layer in the Open System Interconnection (OSI) model which plays an important role in controlling the dialogues (connections) between computers. This layer is responsible for setting up, coordinating, and terminating conversations, exchanges, and dialogues between the ap 6 min read Presentation Layer in OSI modelPresentation Layer is the 6th layer in the Open System Interconnection (OSI) model. This layer is also known as Translation layer, as this layer serves as a data translator for the network. The data which this layer receives from the Application Layer is extracted and manipulated here as per the req 4 min read Secure Socket Layer (SSL)SSL or Secure Sockets Layer, is an Internet security protocol that encrypts data to keep it safe. It was created by Netscape in 1995 to ensure privacy, authentication, and data integrity in online communications. SSL is the older version of what we now call TLS (Transport Layer Security).Websites us 10 min read PPTP Full Form - Point-to-Point Tunneling ProtocolPPTP Stands for Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol is a widely used networking protocol designed to create a secure private connection over a public network like the internet. It is Developed by Microsoft and other tech companies in the 1990s It is one of the first protocols used for Virtual Private 5 min read Multipurpose Internet Mail Extension (MIME) ProtocolMIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) is a standard used to extend the format of email messages, allowing them to include more than just text. It enables the transmission of multimedia content such as images, audio, video, and attachments, within email messages, as well as other types of cont 4 min read Application LayerApplication Layer in OSI ModelThe Application Layer of OSI (Open System Interconnection) model, is the top layer in this model and takes care of network communication. The application layer provides the functionality to send and receive data from users. It acts as the interface between the user and the application. The applicati 5 min read Client-Server ModelThe Client-Server Model is a distributed architecture where clients request services and servers provide them. Clients send requests to servers, which process them and return the results. Clients don’t share resources among themselves but depend on the server. Common examples include email systems a 5 min read World Wide Web (WWW)The World Wide Web (WWW), often called the Web, is a system of interconnected webpages and information that you can access using the Internet. It was created to help people share and find information easily, using links that connect different pages together. The Web allows us to browse websites, wat 6 min read Introduction to Electronic MailIntroduction:Electronic mail, commonly known as email, is a method of exchanging messages over the internet. Here are the basics of email:An email address: This is a unique identifier for each user, typically in the format of [email protected] email client: This is a software program used to send, 4 min read What is a Content Distribution Network and how does it work?Over the last few years, there has been a huge increase in the number of Internet users. YouTube alone has 2 Billion users worldwide, while Netflix has over 160 million users. Streaming content to such a wide demographic of users is no easy task. One can think that a straightforward approach to this 4 min read Protocols in Application LayerThe Application Layer is the topmost layer in the Open System Interconnection (OSI) model. This layer provides several ways for manipulating the data which enables any type of user to access the network with ease. The Application Layer interface directly interacts with the application and provides c 7 min read Advanced TopicsWhat is Network Security?Network security is defined as the activity created to protect the integrity of your network and data. Network security is the practice of protecting a computer network from unauthorized access, misuse, or attacks. It involves using tools, technologies, policies, and procedures to ensure the confide 8 min read Computer Network | Quality of Service and MultimediaQuality of Service (QoS) is an important concept, particularly when working with multimedia applications. Multimedia applications, such as video conferencing, streaming services, and VoIP (Voice over IP), require certain bandwidth, latency, jitter, and packet loss parameters. QoS methods help ensure 7 min read Authentication in Computer NetworkPrerequisite - Authentication and Authorization Authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user or information. User authentication is the process of verifying the identity of a user when that user logs in to a computer system. There are different types of authentication systems wh 4 min read Encryption, Its Algorithms And Its FutureEncryption plays a vital role in today’s digital world, serving a major role in modern cyber security. It involves converting plain text into cipher text, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure from unauthorized access. By making data unreadable to unauthorized parties, encryption helps 10 min read Introduction of Firewall in Computer NetworkA firewall is a network security device, either hardware or software-based, which monitors all incoming and outgoing traffic and based on a defined set of security rules, it accepts, rejects, or drops that specific traffic. It acts like a security guard that helps keep your digital world safe from u 7 min read MAC Filtering in Computer NetworkThere are two kinds of network Adapters. A wired adapter allows us to set up a connection to a modem or router via Ethernet in a computer whereas a wireless adapter identifies and connects to remote hot spots. Each adapter has a distinct label known as a MAC address which recognizes and authenticate 10 min read Wi-Fi Standards ExplainedWi-Fi stands for Wireless Fidelity, and it is developed by an organization called IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) they set standards for the Wi-Fi system. Each Wi-Fi network standard has two parameters : Speed - This is the data transfer rate of the network measured in Mbps 4 min read What is Bluetooth?Bluetooth is used for short-range wireless voice and data communication. It is a Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) technology and is used for data communications over smaller distances. This generation changed into being invented via Ericson in 1994. It operates within the unlicensed, business, 6 min read Generations of wireless communicationWe have made very huge improvements in wireless communication and have expanded the capabilities of our wireless communication system. We all have seen various generations in our life. Let's discuss them one by one. 0th Generation: Pre-cell phone mobile telephony technology, such as radio telephones 2 min read Cloud NetworkingCloud Networking is a service or science in which a company’s networking procedure is hosted on a public or private cloud. Cloud Computing is source management in which more than one computing resources share an identical platform and customers are additionally enabled to get entry to these resource 11 min read PracticeTop 50 Plus Networking Interview Questions and Answers for 2024Networking is defined as connected devices that may exchange data or information and share resources. A computer network connects computers to exchange data via a communication media. Computer networking is the most often asked question at leading organizations such Cisco, Accenture, Uber, Airbnb, G 15+ min read Top 50 TCP/IP Interview Questions and Answers 2025Understanding TCP/IP is essential for anyone working in IT or networking. It's a fundamental part of how the internet and most networks operate. Whether you're just starting or you're looking to move up in your career, knowing TCP/IP inside and out can really give you an edge.In this interview prepa 15+ min read Top 50 IP Addressing Interview Questions and AnswersIn today’s digital age, every device connected to the internet relies on a unique identifier called an IP Address. If you’re aiming for a career in IT or networking, mastering the concept of IP addresses is crucial. In this engaging blog post, we’ll explore the most commonly asked IP address intervi 15+ min read Last Minute Notes for Computer NetworksComputer Networks is an important subject in the GATE Computer Science syllabus. It encompasses fundamental concepts like Network Models, Routing Algorithms, Congestion Control, TCP/IP Protocol Suite, and Network Security. These topics are essential for understanding how data is transmitted, managed 14 min read Computer Network - Cheat SheetA computer network is an interconnected computing device that can exchange data and share resources. These connected devices use a set of rules called communication protocols to transfer information over physical or wireless technology. Modern networks offer more than just connectivity. Enterprises 15+ min read Like